Dog Days

 

Sometimes August is known as “dog days.” But dogs can be great companions all year round; a third of the world’s households have a dog. Be dogged in exploring the following online activities about dogs.

CONNECT:

• Check out ten amazing facts about dogs at https://www.natgeokids.com/au/discover/animals/general-animals/dog-facts/
• Find out about dog breeds from different countries at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xO47V5i2NXQ&ab_channel=Novakid
• Discover the history of dogs at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzz-2I6ne3A&ab_channel=AKidExplainsHistory 

CREATE:

• Get crafty with dogs at https://diycandy.com/dog-crafts/
• Do you have a dog? Here are some fun activities to do with your dog: https://www.akc.org/public-education/fun-home-activities-dogs-kids/
• Plan a puppy-themed party with fun games; see ideas at https://diycandy.com/dog-crafts/

CARE:

• Watch this video about the best kinds of dogs for children at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baSpB5SxLhw&ab_channel=RobertCabral
• Sesame Street explains service dogs at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXTX88WKHaE&ab_channel=SesameStreet
• Try these fun activities to keep your dog and you healthy: https://www.daltonanimalcare.com/blog/escape-summertime-boredom-with-these-5-activities-for-kids-and-dogs/
• Dogs may bite sometimes, so here are ways to treat those bites: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/dog-bites
• Find out about guide dogs for the blind at https://www.guidedogs.com/

CAREERS:

Are you dogged in your pursuit of a career with dogs? You could be a breeder, a dog walker, a dog groomer,  a dog trainer, a pet store owner, a veterinarian, a scientist, a historian, a photographer, a police officer, an artist, and, of course, a dog owner. Explore some of the possibilities here.

• Kids’ view of becoming a dog trainer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF6w03Lqzeg&ab_channel=LittleBoat
• 15 exciting jobs that let you work with dogs: https://wearwagrepeat.com/best-jobs-dog-lovers/#:~:text=Find%20The%20Career%20You%20Want,Pet%20Business%20in%2030%20Days!
• AND 15 unique jobs for working dogs: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/working-dogs-jobs-for-dogs/#:~:text=We%20all%20know%20about%20some,15%20unique%20jobs%20for%20dogs.

 

 

Clowning Around

 

Clowns can be hilarious, silly, obnoxious, but they almost touch our feelings. And clowns have been around for centuries. There’s more to clowns than their make-up or dress, so reveal the inner clown with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Explore clown facts at https://kids.kiddle.co/Clown
• Watch a short history of clowns at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIb7tnP755Q . For older youth, check out clown history (and the reason why clowns can seem scary) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWFgt0n6WGM
• International Clown Week is celebrated the first week in August, and National Clown Day is held the Saturday of that week. Get the basics at https://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/august/clown-day-week.htm  For  more details, go to https://impactful.ninja/international-clown-week/

 

CREATE:

• Primary kids will enjoy the clown activities at https://childcarelounge.com/pages/clowns-and-circus-theme-and-activities?srsltid=AfmBOorxzMc6vjC1yOLVVd3iX5amqS9cVbquvhp-zSqtdKwrrVINIOiD
• Create a clown routine by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vGrxXeq5po
• Have fun creating and carrying out your own clown party; see ideas at https://www.realizinghome.com/clown-themed-childrens-party/

 

CARE:

• Can clowning be a service? That’s what Clowns without borders do. Learn about them at https://clownswithoutborders.org/
• Another clown group that gives service is Caring Clowns international. You can get involved too at https://www.caringclownsinternational.org/get-involved/
• Patch Adams was a real doctor who clowned with children in hospitals to bring them joy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsiaWTRTAos Read his biography at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patch_Adams

 

CAREERS:

Are you a class clown? Do YOU want to be a clown - and get paid? Or have a career that involves clowns? It might be with a circus, on TV, or even in a hospital. You could make the world a happier place, as these insights into clown-related careers.  

• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/clown/
• https://www.clownsinternational.com/
• A day in the life of a rodeo clown https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P4O17wWUgQ

Soar with Butterflies (and Moths)

 

Butterflies and moths are winged insects, but probably are considered the beauty queens and kings of that species. Fortunately, these winged beauties can be found around the world – and in these online activities. Follow them here.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the details about butterflies at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unGHaH7CtBA
• See 50 kinds of butterflies (and their names) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nGL9DE4rt4
• Find differences between butterflies and moths at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iblveeTDkXQ

 

CREATE:

• Make a trivia game by using 30 fun facts about butterflies, found at https://www.teachstarter.com/us/blog/butterfly-facts-for-kids/
• Let your imagination soar by trying these easy butterfly crafts at https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2023/07/10-easy-butterfly-crafts-for-kids/
• Try these wild (spaces) butterfly lessons at https://butterfly-conservation.org/discover-and-learn/activities-and-resources

 

CARE:

• Help save the butterflies in partnership with the North American Butterfly Association at https://naba.org/
• Join the International Monarch Monitoring Blitz July 25 to August 3 at https://www.cec.org/newsletter/2025-international-monarch-monitoring-blitz/
• Help create wild spaces for butterflies at https://wild-spaces.co.uk/

 

CONNECT:

Do butterflies make your heart flutter? There may be a career it in for you: as a scientist, an artist, a photographer, an educator, a collector, a museum curator. May your career soar with these ideas.

• Careers in entomology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNHHKnWZ8hg
• Butterfly raiser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsnIK9nfyPs
• https://www.ucdavis.edu/majors/blog/what-can-you-do-with-an-entomology-degree

 

Gee! Gemstones!

 Lots of us like bright shiny things – such as gemstones (although not all gemstones are bright and shiny). Gemstones DO stand out among things in the earth. And you can unearth the facts about gemstones with these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Discover the differences between rocks, minerals, crystals, and gems at https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=MBbZnuV5RdI&ab_channel=AmericanMuseumofNaturalHistory
• Watch how rocks are transformed into gemstones at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GsSd7Yb4xo&ab_channel=TheGoodandtheBeautifulHomeschoolScience
• Gemstones are legendary; read how at https://www.angara.com/blog/gemstone-legends-that-will-blow-your-mind/

 

CREATE:

• Find gemstone pairs (uncut and polished versions in this interactive game: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/games/puzzles/article/matching-gemstones
• Compare polished and rough versions of gemstones at https://gemkids.gia.edu/view-all-gemstones
• Play with gems and other bright shiny things at https://www.ourplayfullearningjourney.com/post/loose-parts-play-ideas-using-gems-and-jewels

 

CARE:

• If you have any gems, you will want to take good care of them. And each type of gemstone has unique characteristics that need to be considered. See the list at https://www.gemsociety.org/article/gemstone-care-guide/
• Children in parts of the world are forced to mine for gems. Read about their plight at https://www.worldvision.com.au/docs/default-source/buy-ethical-fact-sheets/7185_dtl_factsheet_jewellery_lr.pdf?sfvrsn=2&srsltid=AfmBOorUcWx3eShZD_IMdnu-WNdeTxrc5wkclYZLlv8HGB4uDfrMd3T_
• Find out what are ethical and conflict-free gemstones at https://www.ceylons.de/blog-en/ethical-gemstones

 

CAREERS:

Do gemstones put a sparkle in your eyes? You could have a bright future in gems: as a gemologist, a miner, a manufacturer, a scientist, a collector, a seller, a jeweler, an artist,  or a historian. Explore  some of the possibilities here.

• https://www.gemsociety.org/article/guide-career-options-gemology/
• https://www.gia.edu/gem-careers
• https://work.chron.com/careers-working-gemstones-29973.html

 

Don’t Knock Doors

 

Thank goodness for doors: for privacy and security and more. Open your mind to doors with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about doors at https://www.diy.org/article/door
• Discover the history of doors at https://muraflex.com/en/blog/the-history-of-doors
• Your head may spin about revolving door facts at https://kids.kiddle.co/Revolving_door
• Explore the Durdle Door at https://easyscienceforkids.com/all-about-durdle-door/

 

CREATE:

• Explore the magic of doors with youngsters at https://alicesharp.co.uk/the-magic-of-doors/
• Make a magic door by following the directions at https://alicesharp.co.uk/the-magic-of-doors/
• Connect doors with the parable of the door by doing the activities at https://sermons4kids.com/activities/narrow-door-group?srsltid=AfmBOoqTm_T1drjW3iwlHx92w6x0CIuX5t9RE12rCC1uryO4bJCzxfEI

 

CARE:

• Help children learn how to answer doors safely at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foqYmK-BdAc
• Teach little ones how to knock on a door properly at https://montessori-portal.com/montessori-activities/practical-life/grace-and-courtesy/knocking-on-a-door/
• Doors can harm children. Discover how to prevent risky doors at https://origin-global.com/advice-centre/keeping-tiny-fingers-safe-child-door-safety

 

CAREERS:

Could doors be your door to a great career? You might become a manufacturer, a seller, an interior designer, a construction worker, or a doorman. These sites might open the door to some great possibilities.

• How doors are made: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKqwvgJRXNI
• What it's like to be a doorman in New York City https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeQMIuALEcU

 

 

Whale of a Tale

 

Whales are the biggest mammals on earth – and in the oceans. Get ready for big surprises in exploring whales with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

Get the facts about humpback whales at

• https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/animals/sea-life/humpback-song/#:~:text=Fast%20Facts,they%20are%20ten%20years%20old.
• Watch and learn about toothed and baleen whales at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VO0cQyg5dE&ab_channel=LearnBright
• Identify 20 types of whales at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO2e90aCRIM&ab_channel=TwinkleMoon

 

CREATE:

• Play like whales at https://tinkergarten.com/activities/play-like-whales
• Try these kid-friendly activities about whales at https://montessorifromtheheart.com/2021/02/21/whale-montessori-kids-activities/
• Close to an ocean with a whale? Get tips for whale watching at https://montessorifromtheheart.com/2021/02/21/whale-montessori-kids-activities/ -- and if whales aren’t close this site has several scientific activities for you.

 

CARE:

• See how crab fisherman test new tech to protect whales from deadly entanglements at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iS8Vohuq6Cw&ab_channel=CBSEveningNews
• Watch how you can take care of whales and other marine mammals at https://montessorifromtheheart.com/2021/02/21/whale-montessori-kids-activities/
• Learn about the issues of whales’ survival at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/blue-whale/conservation-management

 

CAREERS:

Does the thought of whales Want to make a big splash in life? Think about a career related to whales. Here are some possibilities.

• https://us.whales.org/2024/05/20/career-chat-with-kate/
• https://baleinesendirect.org/en/comment-faire-pour-travailler-avec-les-baleines/                                                                                                
• https://unity.edu/environmental-careers/ocean-jobs-a-marine-careers-list-for-water-lovers/

 

Planets Aren’t Plain

 

Our knowledge about planets is largely based on the eight (or nine) planets in our solar system. But the universe has many more planets. Explore or neighborhood planets and or distant planet relatives in these online activities. It’s out of this world!

CONNECT:

• Just what exactly constitutes a planet? National Geographic has the answer at https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/space/article/what-is-a-planet
• Discover our solar system’s planets as NASA explains them at its SpacePlace: https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/planets/en/
• When is a planet not a planet? When it is beyond our solar system. Then it is called an exoplanet. Get the details at https://sciencetrek.org/topics/exoplanets

 

CREATE:

• Little ones can make a solar system with play-doh; see how at https://onlypassionatecuriosity.com/fun-easy-solar-system-activity/
• Create your own planet by following the guidelines at https://www.starnetlibraries.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Build-A-Planet.pdf
• Expand your solar system knowledge with these hands-on activities at https://www.uaf.edu/museum/education/educators/heliophysics-aurora-outre/activities/solar-system/index.php

 

CARE:

• Become a planet protector; find out how at https://www.epa.gov/students/planet-protectors-activities-kids
• Watch 10 ways to take care of Earth’s environment at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2YgM1Zw4_E
• Earth Day is celebrated on April 2, but you can honor our planet every day. Here are some ways that parents can help raise environmentally-responsible kids: https://www.pbs.org/parents/protecting-our-planet

 

 

CAREERS:

Does thinking about planets put stars in your eyes? You could have a career as an astronomer, an astronaut, a geologist, a teacher or a writer. Here are some possibilities:

• https://sd2.org/exploring-planetary-science-careers-a-guide-for-students/
• https://www.europlanet.org/space-careers/
• Watch a planetary scientist at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUc_9d_HwIk

 

Spidey Sense

 

You see spiders all year round, not just at Halloween. While they may seem scary sometimes they benefit the environment. Develop your spidey sense with these online activities

CONNECT:

• Get 15 fun facts about spiders at https://www.toucanbox.com/facts-for-kids/spider-facts
• Watch various spider species at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04BrlLW8dDU&ab_channel=KidzNCrew
• Learn why spiders make the best roommates at https://www.oneearth.org/eight-surprising-reasons-why-spiders-make-the-best-roommates/

 

CREATE:

• Do you know the song “The Itsy-Bitsy Spider? If not, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_lCi8U49mY&ab_channel=TwinkleLittleSongs-NurseryRhymes and if you do, you can sing it at the same website.
• Get crafty with these artsy spider ideas: https://www.artycraftykids.com/craft/easy-spider-crafts-for-kids-to-make/
• Go natural with these outdoor spider activities: https://childsplayabc.wordpress.com/2023/06/29/spider-activities/
• Think like a scientist with these spidery experiments: https://inspirationlaboratories.com/spider-stem-and-steam-activities/

 

CARE:

• Consider having a pet spider? Here’s what to know and do: https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Spiders-As-Pets
• Maybe you want to keep spiders – away. Here are some natural tips: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-keep-spiders-away
• For parents: here’s how to identify and treat spider bites: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/spider-bites-sheet.html

 

CAREERS:

Want to go beyond just singing about spiders and have a spider-related career? You can be an arachnologist (a person who studies spiders), a scientist, a zookeeper, veterinarian, health care professional, a pet shop owner, a writer, or a photographer. See some possibilities at

• https://www.americanarachnology.org/aas-meetings/aas-meeting-2021/featured-artists/
• https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/spiders-alive/
• https://vethelpdirect.com/vetblog/2023/02/11/are-there-vets-for-spiders/

Lunge for Lungs

 

We need air to breathe – and live – but we can’t do that without lungs. Discover the wonders of lungs with these online activities. You’ll find that lungs are a breath of fresh air – and more.

 CONNECT:

• Learn 10 fun facts about lungs at https://humanbodylearning.com/facts-about-lungs-kids/
• Watch how lungs work at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0giiDDBJVQU&ab_channel=NemoursKidsHealth
• Fish don’t have lungs so how they breathe? See how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj5v3n6Nlm8&ab_channel=SciShowKids

CREATE:

• Use your lung power at https://www.brighthorizons.com/resources/activity/education/using-lung-power
• Build your own lung model by following the images at https://discoverycentre.thekids.org.au/activities/science-at-home-build-a-lung-model/
• Explore lungs by trying these idea starters to at https://kidsdiscover.com/teacherresources/lungs-games-and-activities/

 

CARE:

• Follow these tips to keep your lung healthy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwsljkMSVok&ab_channel=NHLBI
• Participate in a lung force walk to help cure lung cancer; see the details at https://www.lung.org/get-involved/events/lung-force-run-walks
• Read about common childhood respiratory diseases at https://choc.org/news/7-common-respiratory-diseases/ 

 

CAREERS:

Do you gasp for a career with lungs? You could be a physician, a therapist, a scientist, a veterinarian, a researcher. Here is a sample of job that might take your breath away.

• See what a lung research does at https://vimeo.com/739858943
• Watch the work of pulmonary doctors at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEoxADZuMsE&ab_channel=MountSinaiHealthSystem
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/respiratory-care

AND here are jobs that can lead to lung disease: https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/copd/occupations-linked-to-lung-diseases

Here's Hopping for Rabbits (and Bunnies)

 

Easter often features rabbits. Why? What else characterizes rabbits and bunnies? Are they wild or domestic? Find these and other answers in the following online activities. Now hop to it!

 

CONNECT:

• Why are rabbits symbols of Easter? Get the answer at https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/news-blogs/a-vets-life/what-does-a-rabbit-have-do-easter
• Bunnies are very popular, but also misunderstood. Get the facts about rabbits at https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/rabbit/wellbeing-and-care/facts-about-rabbits
• Did you know that there are over 40 rabbit breeds to keep as pets? See the details at https://www.thesprucepets.com/rabbit-breeds-1237186

 

CREATE:

• Create a trivia or true/false game using this long list of rabbit facts: https://vetsonparker.com.au/kids-corner/fun-rabbit-facts/
• Try one or more of these fun bunny activities for kids at https://childcarelounge.com/pages/easter-bunny-theme-ideas?srsltid=AfmBOopGQppoetdk8slJwgh13vXBBJ3K2oyHLjot5PU3f8XLFkts84P6
• Play like a rabbit by using the ideas at https://tinkergarten.com/activities/play-like-rabbits-11d3a028-b06f-46f5-a4da-fb47f58da036

 

CARE:

• Too often rabbits are given as Easter gifts, and that’s not always a good idea.   See why -- and what you can do about it at https://houserabbit.org/updates/easter-2025
• Watch the pros and cons of rabbits at https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=4fQHPzPYOtw
• If you do want a bunny, considering adopting one through a rabbit rescue group as this one: https://www.savesomebunny.org/
• Wishing for a rabbit as a pet? Get the details on rabbit pet care at https://www.northwoodanimal.com/rabbits/
• Do you have a rabbit? If so, watch this video on how to find a rabbit veterinarian: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NCA9LrgExo
• Watch these fun activities FOR rabbits at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KV8YtI7-y8o

 

CAREERS:

Do you want to hop to a bunny-oriented career? You could be a rabbit breeder, caretaker, veterinarian, scientist, pet store staff, meat producer, cook, or clothing producer.  Explore some possibilities below.

• https://arba.net/rabbit-showmanship-with-caleb-bell-2/
• Finding a rabbit veterinarian: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NCA9LrgExo

And All That Jazz

 

Jazz may seem like music for limited audiences, but it can be enjoyed by everyone. Nor is jazz relegated to the past. It is still alive and innovative. Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Months by getting jazzed with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Snap your fingers and get hip with this introduction to jazz at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNVLyl8eWoA
• Read and watch Smithsonian’s jazz knowledge and collection at https://makingmusicfun.net/htm/f_mmf_music_library/whats-jazz
• What – and when -- was the Jazz Age? And when? Discover this time at https://youtu.be/6Fy_7If8CrU

 

 

CREATE:

• Make jazz family night with these jazzy activities: https://www.neveradollmoment.com/appreciating-jazz-with-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOooCPnToIYAivgB3iipyThefEpgWtluFd8f5J_Kzer_i8SQUseR4
• Louis Armstrong was one of the greatest jazz musicians. You can learn about him and his music with these kid-friendly activities at https://dynamicmusicteaching.com/louis-armstrong-jazz-music-activities/
• Lincoln Center’s Jazz Academy is the media library of educational videos to advance jazz appreciation. Explore some of their jazzy videos as https://www.youtube.com/@JazzAcademy

 

CARE:

• Read how communities have celebrated jazz for families at https://www.nojazzfest.com/kids-area/
• Dancing is both fun AND healthy. Dance to jazz at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXVuEQE-SAo
• Find out about Jazz House Kids, which offers music education about jazz at https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/jazz-house-kids-offers-music-education-dedicated-exclusively-to-jazz/

 

CAREERS:

Are you jazzed about jazz? How about a career in jazz? As a musician, a composer, a jazz producer, a dancer, a music teacher, an historian, an artist. Improvise your own jazzy career. Here is some inspiration for you.

• https://www.allaboutjazz.com/careers-in-jazz-by-bill-anschell
• https://college.berklee.edu/careers-jazz-composition
• https://www.careersinmusic.com/jazz-musician/
• https://youtu.be/BXbstf8UMmU A day in the life of a jazz musician

Shell Out!

Nature’s seashells are not only beautiful and varied, but they also house a variety of creatures. Come out of your shell and discover a wonder of nature with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Read cool facts about seashells at https://www.sciencing.com/seashell-kids-5233555/
• Watch what seashells are made of at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bmy2TfEJ42o
• Learn about 17 varieties of seashells at https://www.southernliving.com/travel/gastropod-shells

 

CREATE:

• Explore the wonders of the ocean with this collection of Shell Crafting Ideas at https://www.bakerross.co.uk/craft-ideas/category/kids/themes/seashell/  You can sort the activities by age, time to make and type of idea.
• Grow crystals on seashells by following the directions at https://www.engineeringemily.com/grow-crystals-on-seashells-steam-activity-for-kids/
• Party on with these sea-based activities at https://gooberstudioprints.com/2024/09/03/15-under-the-sea-party-games-and-activities-thatll-make-a-splash/?srsltid=AfmBOooSYVJXGH_Cv4pRtWbCjjsjR-Lm1WjrvixxmpczAbyuLtFy_D0m

 

CARE:

• Watch how to keep safe at the beach at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFJeiji8IFE
• Considering collecting seashells? Is that good or bad? Watch the factors at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IE5t4zfsr6g
• If you DO want to collect seashells, here is how to do it responsibly: https://adventuregirl.com/activities/collecting-seashells/#:~:text=Limit%20Your%20Collection%3A%20Take%20only,or%20contributing%20to%20environmental%20degradation.

 

CONNECT:

Do you want to sell seashells on the seashore, or have other shell-centric careers? Besides collecting and selling seashells, you can study them as a scientist, cook with them, or make art with them. Here is a sampling of possibilities.

• https://unity.edu/environmental-careers/ocean-jobs-a-marine-careers-list-for-water-lovers/
• https://www.fit.edu/lp/ycd-career-options-in-marine-science/
• https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/seashells-inspired-career-lauded-evolutionary-geologist
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW1CfHKVZSg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Mardi Gras!

Have you heard of Mardi Gras? It is sometimes linked with carnivals, New Orleans, masks, beads, food, and religion. Celebrate Mardi Gras by exploring the online activities below.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about Mardi Gras at https://www.ducksters.com/holidays/mardi_gras.php
• See how people celebrate Mardi Gras at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayydZYlxfj4&t=2s&ab_channel=KidColors
• For more details, about the history of Mardi Gras, watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBFSY4RM0p4&ab_channel=Hey%21GuessWhat

 

CREATE:

• Dance and sing about Mardi Gras and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJ1KIjv1-og&ab_channel=TheKiboomers-KidsMusicChannel
• Get crafty for Mardi Gras at https://redstickmom.com/mardi-gras-crafts-kids/
• Try up to ten ways for families to celebrate Mardi Gras at https://www.jumphouses.com/blog/10-fun-and-festive-mardi-gras-activities-for-kids/
• Plan a kid-friendly Mardi Gras party using some of these ideas: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/mardi-gras-party-ideas/?srsltid=AfmBOordZooJuiVUeVbLxOIPIz2ebraGvbOE_J7veaEcdP3RM8x7opbo

 

CARE:

• Masks are usually associated with Halloween, but they are also popular at Mardi Gras. Make sure to wear those masks safely by following these tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgqw6VXmu3A&ab_channel=13WMAZ
• For parents: Is there a Mardi Gras event near you? Here are some good reminders if you want to take your kids to Mardi Gras and other parades: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUKO6LCEU3s&ab_channel=WDSUNews
• The day after Mardi Gras is the of Lent, which is a time of sacrifice – rather than partying.. Get introduced to Lent at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV8XpwPoRvI&ab_channel=TwinklEducationalPublishing

 

CAREERS:

Want to participate in Mardi Gras year round? It could be a fun career choice.  You could be a party planner, a performer, a costume designer, a make-up professional, a musician, a chef – as well as a religious leader.

• See behind the scene of Mardi Gras at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_cGXDqbOB4&ab_channel=SydneyGayandLesbianMardiGras
• Watch how Mardi Gras floats are created at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VM9ODg03srU&ab_channel=Insider
• Join a Mardi Gras krewe; see what is involved at https://mardigrastraditions.com/ride-parade/#:~:text=Fortunately%2C%20some%20parading%20krewes%20let,or%20an%20after%2Dparade%20party.

 

 

 

 

Great Grains!

 

One of the major food groups we need to eat healthy is grains. And grains have other uses too. Gain your grain knowledge with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Go from grain to bread at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/homeschool/baking/mission-1-what-is-grain/
• Some grains have changed little from ancient times; read about these timeless grains at https://kids.kiddle.co/Ancient_grains
• See some non-food uses of grains at https://www.shawnee.k-state.edu/schoolenrichment/school-enrichment/wheatbreadscience/Wheat-Kids-Connection-Magazine.pdf
• Read about the history of grain elevators at https://www.american-historama.org/1881-1913-maturation-era/grain-elevators.htm

 

CREATE:

• Try these 10 kid-friendly activities to do with whole grains: https://www.vermontharvestofthemonth.org/vthom-blog/10-whole-grain-activities
• Be a grain taste tester at https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/whole-grain-taste-test-ideas/
• Make grainy slime at https://goodineverygrain.ca/2020/02/13/amaizeing-corn-based-slime/

 

CARE:

• Check out the grains group of a healthy plate at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsMr2Y5hYms&ab_channel=FoodHero
• Discover the health benefits of different types of grains at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4J39DYnspEc&ab_channel=CaptainCreate
• For parents: some children are allergic to wheat. Discover the signs an symptoms – and how to deal with them – at https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/wheat-allergy.html

 

CAREERS:

Want to grow a career with grains? There are lots of possibilities: farming, manufacturing, selling, cooking, experimenting. See some options here:

• https://www.careerharvest.com.au/careers-in-grain
• Take a 360 degree tour of a a grain farm at https://www.farmfood360.ca/en/ontario-grain-farms/
• Watch how cereal is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaddDPSDu5M&ab_channel=Factora

Windows to the World

 

Buildings would be mainly dark and gloomy without windows. See the light about windows by doing these online-based activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch a clear history of windows at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgiC8uG4Kpc
• Did you know that there are different types of windows? Get the facts (and pictures) at https://kids.kiddle.co/Window
• See 1000 years of stained glass in 5 minutes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDrHv9U88zo

 

CREATE:

• Try 10 ways to use a window for play at https://www.cbc.ca/parents/play/view/10-ways-to-use-a-window-for-play
• Create mess-free window art with foam shapes and water at https://happyhooligans.ca/window-art-foam-shapes-water/
• Make stained class with tissue paper at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHax38AtEuI

 

CARE:

• Celebrate Window Safety Week with these kid-friendly resources: https://www.nsc.org/getmedia/ba6ff4b1-6bc8-428c-9c91-a02b1b17f059/window-safety-week-kids-activities-2017.pdf
• For families: Watch how window safety systems came to be—and how to be window-safe at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkhdCNLXJ6Q
• Use science to test energy efficient windows at https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/energy-efficient-windows/
• For families: Homes can lose lots of heat through windows. See tips to cut heat loss of windows by following these tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TAoZiDprZk

 

CAREERS:

Are you looking into a window-ful career? You might make windows, sell them, install them, clean them, cover them, or decorate them.  See some of the possibilities here.  

• Watch how window glass is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTytNLJ25RU
• See how to make stained glass at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqXTKnAo3Jg

National Anthem Pride

Anthems are usually associated with national anthems such as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Anthems usually represents a group, a country, or a movement. As the U.S. has a new president, it is good to think about national pride – of many groups. Explore anthems with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Why are there national anthems? Discover the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA0-cA2BRAA&ab_channel=Tapakapa
• Watch the history of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at https://youtu.be/Umg8v6DLZjs (“spangled” means cover in spangles or other sparkling objects or lights).
• “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is often called the Black National Anthem. Read why at https://www.pbs.org/articles/lift-every-voice-and-sing#:~:text=Many%20people%20are%20surprised%20to,as%20the%20Black%20National%20Anthem.
• National anthems are also sung at sports events. Watch several countries sing their national anthems at rugby (soccer) games at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRIjnHtGua1hV68cq5HuO9_z78jNj-fVU

 

CREATE:

• Create a replica of the original flag that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner” at https://funfamilycrafts.com/cardboard-star-spangled-banner/
• Another popular, but unofficial, U.S. anthem is “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” which is based on the United Kingdom’s national anthem “God Save the King.” In turn, that tune resembles an old dance piece of the early 17^th century!  Listen to 15 versions of the same melody at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0d0uR5Gew88&ab_channel=LEONAR Now try making up new lyrics to this tune.
• Learn how to sing Canada’s national anthem at https://funfamilycrafts.com/cardboard-star-spangled-banner/

CARE:

• Plan a Star-Spangled Banner Birthday Celebration Week with these ideas: https://starspangledmusic.org/ssb-celebration-week-resource-pack/
• Learn about flag etiquette at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-rHN8Ow87w&ab_channel=KMTV3NewsNow
• Conduct a flag ceremony with your family following these steps at https://shapinguptobeamom.com/how-to-do-a-flag-ceremony-with-your-family/

 

CAREERS:

How do national anthems fit into your possible career? As a musician, a composer, an historian, an event planner, or even a manufacturer.

• Flag manufacturing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sijUOBx4q_E&ab_channel=ThinkOne
• Writing an anthem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjsljVCN_MU&ab_channel=FraserTwitchett
• Music historians: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-music-historian#:~:text=A%20music%20historian%20is%20a,the%20public%20on%20their%20findings.

Soup's On!

 January is soup month, but soup crosses the seasons: hot soup warms you up in winter, and cold soup in summer can be very refreshing. And soup is found throughout the ages and around the world. Try these tasty online activities while the soup’s on.

 

CONNECT:

• Soup has been around since 20,000 BC as soon as they invented pots. Read about its history at https://www.onmanorama.com/food/features/2020/06/24/soup-popular-dish-history-origin.html
• Watch how tomato soup took over the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqdijvFLaps&ab_channel=HistoryofFood
• See the world of soups at https://www.thekitchn.com/collection/around-the-world-in-30-soups

 

CREATE:

• See how to make yummy vegetable soup at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoOpfn5yRxo&ab_channel=KidsBakingClub
• Watch how to make broccoli cheddar soup at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDIH0wHKkYo&ab_channel=FamilyFunPack
• Still have your pumpkin? You can make soup with it at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN48a-uwF20&ab_channel=MeetMaxi

 

CARE:

• You should eat more soup; here are 5 reasons why: https://www.henryford.com/blog/2019/01/you-should-eat-more-soup-5-reasons-why
• For more details about soups, both healthy and non-healthy ones, go to https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-soup-healthy
• Chicken soup is often associated with getting over sickness. Discover the history of chicken soup and turtleneck soup at https://www.oxfordstudent.com/2019/04/28/the-history-of-chicken-soup/ and check out George Washington’s part in them.
• For parents: What about teaching kids charity through soup kitchens? Here is why not – and better alternatives: https://www.cnbc.com/2013/10/17/teaching-kids-charity-skip-the-soup-kitchen-trip.html

 

CAREERS:

Does soup sound like a tasty career? Think about becoming a chef, a nutritionist, a restauranteer, a dietician, or a manufacturer. Here are some leads, so eat up?

• A day in the life of a cook: https://youtu.be/ISWsysBslMk
• https://www.timeforkids.com/your-hot-job/articles/at-your-service-restaurant-manager
• Exploring dietitian and nutrition careers: https://www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Careers/Occupations/occupation-profile.aspx?keyword=Dietitians%20and%20Nutritionists&location=US&onetcode=29-1031.00