Good for you: Food!

 

Of course you need food to live, but some food is better for you than others – and the right mix of food can help keep you healthy. Get the inside scoop on the nutrition of food with these online activities.

 

COMMENT:

• What is nutrition? and why is it important? Get the answers at https://youtu.be/VpfYP2NtHfs
• A good place to start is a good plate. See the US Department of Agriculture’s recommendations for healthy eating at https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/kids
• Family dentists are sharing 10 fun food facts for kids at https://wemakekidssmile.net/10-fun-food-facts-for-kids/
• Become a healthy superhero by watching Captain Create at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA9UUVYEagSVjyzf8enp9gQ/videos

 

CREATE:

• Make dining decisions a game at https://www.cdc.gov/school-nutrition/dining-decisions/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/bam/mobileapp.html
• Try the snack shack challenge at https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-education-resources-materials/whyville-snack-shack-games
• Take the Vitamin C challenge at https://aglab.ars.usda.gov/let-s-get-to-work/the-vitamin-c-challenge
• Are you 10 or older? Then you can help protect the community from food-based illness by playing https://outbreaksquad.com/index.html

 

CARE:

• Learn how to read a nutrition facts label at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylY0w04AAVk&ab_channel=DrSmarty; parents can use the information at https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label to help plan nutritional family meals.
• What is a food allergy? See the answer at https://youtu.be/CnxzZXjbddk
• Girls only! Get girl-only nutrition tips at https://girlshealth.gov/nutrition/index.html
• Become a diet detective at https://health.choc.org/how-to-become-a-diet-detective-some-trends-may-be-harmful-to-kids/
• For parents: Build a healthy diet for your children, based on the Mayo Clinic’s guidelines at https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/nutrition-for-kids/art-20049335

 

CAREERS:

Does good food sound good to you as a career? You could be a nutritionist, a dietician, a scientist, a healthcare professional, a cook or chef, a farmer, a teacher --- there are many ways to you can make a nutritional living. Here is a sampling of opportunities, so treat yourself.

• https://nutrition.org/careers/career-pathways-in-nutrition/
• https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/healthful-habits/what-a-registered-dietitian-nutritionist-can-do-for-you
• Farmer markets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7ZaVZpFSMM&t=51s&ab_channel=NationalAgriculturalLibrary
• Follow the nutrition story map about feeding a growing population at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6f92b5c2e3754eb3b449a96580605d98

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

Sweet Season of Sugar

 

The holidays evoke the taste of sugar (sugarplum fairies and more).  Discover its seasonal role – and its larger impact in these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out some fun facts about sugar at https://easyscienceforkids.com/sugar/
• Where did sugar come from? Watch the answer throughout history at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4g6sReVCYQ&ab_channel=BBCStudios
• Find out about different sources of sugar at https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/sugar/353821

 

CREATE:

• Make—and play--with sugar sand! Just follow the directions at https://createplaytravel.com/kids/diy-sugar-sand/
• Try painting snowflakes with sugar. See how at https://kidscraftroom.com/winter-sugar-painting-kids/
• Create colored sugar cubes and build with them by following the directions at https://handsonaswegrow.com/sugar-cube-activity-fun-for-kids/

 

CARE:

• Sugar is hiding in plain sight; find out where they hide at https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/sugar-hiding-in-plain-sight-video
• Rethink your drink and the amount of sugar is in it at https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/activity/rethink-your-drink/
• What does sugar do for your body? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2Sn81ulH8I&ab_channel=WonderGroveKids

 

CAREERS:

Does a sugar-related career sound sweet to you? You could raise it, process it, sell it, create with it, and study it. Here are some possibilities.

• Check out the sugar industry at https://www.sugar.org/about/us-industry/
• Read about the scientific voice of the sugar industry at https://www.sugar.org/
• Discover how sugarcane is farmed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyNDJHkLyrE&ab_channel=CANEGROWERSWatch how sugar is processed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfKDdE6YEiw&ab_channel=HowIt%27sMade

 

Gobble Up Turkeys

 

Turkeys are traditional food at Thanksgiving. And there’s more to them than that one meal. Gobble up the facts about turkeys with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out 70! facts about turkeys at https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/kids/turkey-facts-kids
• Why do Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving? See the video answer about it at https://www.britannica.com/video/turkey-dish-meal/-238846
• Get wild about wild turkeys at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnIU1iJgmVE

 

CREATE:

• Here are two dozen turkey activities for kids: https://thekindergartenconnection.com/24-turkey-activities-kids/
• Get a taste for healthy turkey food art at https://raisingveggielovers.com/turkey-food-art-healthy-kids-food/
• Work up an appetite with these thanksgiving games at https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/holidays-celebrations/g32449758/thanksgiving-games/

 

CARE:

• Watch how farmers care for turkeys at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpHvD4TBzOM
• Wild turkeys adapt to urban and suburban communities, which can cause problems. See the issues and the solutions at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/Wild-Turkeys-WDM-Technical-Series.pdf
• Watch this annual “Turkeys for Teachers” drive to support 1000 local teachers with Thanksgiving good at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ORGcKXXhlM

 

CAREERS:

Is a TURKey LURKey in your future? Maybe as a farmer, a grocer, a cook, an event planner, an ornithologist (bird scientist)? You might thank a turkey for an interesting career. See some examples below.  

• Visit a turkey farm at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOxzPHg_B64
• Scientists talk about turkey conservation at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DfjOQFVEeK4

 

Cheer for Cheese!

 

By itself and in combination with other food, cheese is great! Find out why with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out 11 fun facts about cheese at https://www.popcornforthepeople.com/blogs/blog/11-fun-facts-about-cheese
• Watch the different types of cheese at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gATmYIO5p48
• See how cheese is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8AIamucOVQ
• Cheese is over 7000 years old! Read about its global history at https://kids.kiddle.co/History_of_cheese

 

CREATE:

• You can play with your food if it’s cheese. Discover how at https://www.himama.com/learning/child-activities/activity/yummy-cheese-play
• Cheese can also facilitate practical life activities: see how at https://www.howwemontessori.com/how-we-montessori/2019/09/six-practical-life-activities-using-cheese.html
• Make your own cottage cheese by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAPwpYDicT0
• Experiment with stretching cheese at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGkIY4q6ttI

 

CARE:

• As a family, read about the benefits of cheese for kids at https://thelaughingcow-sea.com/articles/the-benefits-of-cheese-for-children-why-cheese-is-a-healthy-choice-for-kids/
•  And you can get more details per kind of cheese at https://thelaughingcow-sea.com/articles/the-benefits-of-cheese-for-children-why-cheese-is-a-healthy-choice-for-kids/
• Yes, you can care for cheese. See how at https://www.idfa.org/cheese-facts
• Find out how safe moldy cheese is at https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/food-and-nutrition/faq-20058492

 

CAREERS:

Thinking about a cheese-y job? You can make cheese, taste it, sell it, cook with it, and study it. Here are some yummy possibilities:

• https://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/7/Cheese-Industry-Worker.html
• Selling cheese as a cheese monger: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51w7gSHVqAc
• Cheese and milk processing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9_yIMWsdTs

Rah for Rice

Rah for Rice

Rice is a staple food for people around the world. But how much do you know about this vital grain? Discover why you should hurray for rice by exploring these activities.

CONNECT:

• Check out these fun facts about rice at https://freerice.com/blog/10-fascinating-facts-about-rice
• Watch how rice is grown at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxAEiHCErSA&t=28s
• See how kids react to rice dishes from around the world at
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=et1yp1pnw3A
• Be amazed with the science of rice at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4im1TNpPlOg

CREATE:

• Fill your senses with these rice-based sensory play ideas: https://besttoys4toddlers.com/rice-sensory-play-ideas-kids/
• Try these run rice crafts and recipes for kids: https://funfamilycrafts.com/rice-activities-crafts-for-kids/
• Make rice dance by following these directions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alMD3dq7Nec

CARE:

• How healthy is rice? Find out at https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-rice
• What would happen if you ate rice every day? Get the answers at https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8039484/eating-rice-every-day/
• Check out these tips on handling rice safely: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/business/food-safety/handling-rice-safely/

CAREERS:

Might rice be a staple part of your career? You can grow it, process it, sell it, cook with it, study it, even make art with it. Here are some possibilities:

• https://www.usarice.com
• Rice processing with technology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ray8LsGvvgQ
• Rice artist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AruavMuIGpc

 

 

 

 

Iconic Symbols

 Nowadays we tend to think of icons as those tiny little pictures on the computer or phone, but icons have a long history – and have been associated with other concepts than technology. See the possibilities with these online activities. It could be an iconic experience.

CONNECT:

• Legos, the Beatles, and tea are all cultural icons. Find out why at https://kids.kiddle.co/Cultural_icon
• Read about computer icons and how are they used at https://wiki.kidzsearch.com/wiki/Computer_icon
• Watch the background about Orthodox religious icons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gvrkF3XDBk 

CREATE:

• Get fun ideas about drawing customized social media icons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iieii87lCIM
• Symbols can be icons, such as United States symbols. Test your memory with the U.S. symbols match game at https://matchthememory.com/kimbrowning
• Can you guess these logs in 3 seconds? Try it as a family at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PNX8MY9lZw

CARE:

• What does the wheelchair symbol actually mean? Watch at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppNYZq-hYTw
• Have you seen food safety icons? Check them out at https://www.foodprotection.org/resources/food-safety-icons/
• Health Icons is a volunteer effort to create a ‘global good’ for health projects all over the world. These icons are available in the public domain for use in any type of project. https://healthicons.org/about

CAREERS:

Dreaming about an iconic career? You could be a graphic designer, a sign maker, a religious leader, or an international communicator.

• (Almost) everything you need about icons in under 3 minutes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCXFJEK_lVk
• https://usajobs.github.io/design-system/icons/
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/graphic-design-jobs

 

Adding Ads to Your Life

 

You are surrounded by advertisement every day: on TV, in publications, on the radio, on billboards, and online. You might understand what is being communication, but do you know what is NOT stated? ADd to knowledge about ads with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the evolution of advertisements in 60 seconds at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d3VAYGnXjY
• Read about the history of ads targeted to children at https://exhibits.library.duke.edu/exhibits/show/childrenads/intro
• See how food commercials are made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7iSFl5cp84
• What are some advertising techniques related to business and economics? See Christmas examples at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhPuRSiqvgM

 

CREATE:

• Enjoy this great advertising game and learn how to successfully create attractive and informative brochures and leaflets: https://www.funenglishgames.com/writinggames/advertising.html
• Targeting middle schoolers: analyze these ads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQTrTiFbdSI. What do you see? What do you hear? is the message? How does the ad affect you – why? What techniques do they use for impact you?
• Watch how to make an advertisement at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7KJmZSrOao

 

CARE:

• Become more aware about online advisements by watching  this kid-centric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQptrlOFMDw
• As a family, become ad smart by practicing these tips: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/how-kids-can-resist-advertising-and-be-smart-consumers
• Watch how advertising rewires kids’ brains at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGN1ZEABk_Y

 

CAREERS:

Want to produce advertisements as much as consume them? Then maybe advertising is the field for you! Know that there are many aspects of advertising: marketing, writing, filming and photographing, layout, selling, budgeting, personnel. May I sell you on the advertising industry?

• https://advertisingindustry.careers/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm
• How to get started in advertising: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_Yxnwmp_No

 

Potatoes are Hot!

 The potato is a cuisine mainstay of many cultures, impacting those cultures more over the centuries. Dig into these activities to chew on the facts about this famous vegetable.

 

CONNECT:

• Did you know that potatoes were the first vegetable grown in space? Discover this fact and 49 more potato facts at https://facts.net/potato-facts/
• Watch history through the eyes of the potato at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xROmDsULcLE
• See the potato king who grows 400 different kinds of potatoes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9qWJ89m-hY

 

CREATE:

• Play with your food: here are 10 games that use potatoes: https://tinybeans.com/play-with-your-food-10-games-that-use-potatoes/
• Paint with potatoes by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlTfDtTesKY
• Try experimenting with potatoes at https://sciencing.com/fun-science-experiments-potatoes-8216496.html

 

CARE:

• Try these healthy, kid-friendly potato recipes: https://mana.md/healthy-kid-friendly-potatoes/
• Grow your own potato; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5spUhmGneGw
• Learn how to buy and handle potatoes at https://www.usfoods.com/great-food/great-food-resources/produce-resources/potato-resources.html

 

CAREERS:

Are you eye-ing a potato career? Keep your eye out for the possibilities: as a farmer, cook, scientist, or even exporter.

• Watch how an Australian potato farm operates at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmuueelyQww
• https://innovature.com/article/meet-natalie-kaiser-scientist-harnessing-power-potatoes-through-plant-breeding-innovation
• https://www.nationalpotatocouncil.org/benefits-of-potatoes/potato-economics-jobs/

Presenting U.S. Presidents

 

When the United States became a nation, it chose to be led by a president rather than a king – and with a limited term. We honor past presidents officially once a year – but hopefully every day. Discover those presidents in these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch what it takes to be U.S. President at https://youtu.be/GikqTRSvbSo
• Read fun facts about U.S. Presidents at https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/presidential-fun-facts
• George Washington was the first U.S. President. See what made him special at https://youtu.be/gQsVhebhJ0A

 

CREATE:

• Get active about U.S. presidents with these fun things to do: https://childcarelounge.com/pages/presidents-day-theme-and-activities
• Eat some favorite foods of the U.S. Presidents: https://www.businessinsider.com/presidents-favorite-food-dishes-white-house-2019-5
• Have a party for U.S. presidents with these ideas: https://www.easy-party-ideas-and-games.com/holidays-and-celebration.html

 

CARE:

• Last year the President signed the Keep Kids Fed Act. Get the details at https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/dem/press/release/president-signs-the-keep-kids-fed-act
• U.S. Presidents are voted in. What is voting and why is it important? Find out the answers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrG7zBUDiqQ
• Watch a pep talk from Kid President to you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-gQLqv9f4o

 

 CAREERS:

If you are a U.S. citizen and at last 35 years old, you could become President. And there are many jobs that help the President carry out the duties. Here are a few.

• White house residence staff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrG7zBUDiqQ
• President’s press secretary: https://kpcnotebook.scholastic.com/post/conversation-white-house-press-secretary
• Congress: https://www.timeforkids.com/g2/congress-work/?rl=en-450

 

 

Are Fairies Flighty?

 Fairies are fantasy creatures, and come in several varieties.  Over the centuries and across cultures, people have believed in them. Explore the following activities,  and you may find a fairy garden or two.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the world of fairies at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQh1MLGyMW4
• Discover the who’s who of fairies at https://www.factmonster.com/culture-entertainment/mythology-folklore/fairies
• Read about the origin of some famous fairies at https://teetot.com/blogs/teetotblog/5-facts-about-the-history-and-origins-of-fairies

 

CREATE:

• Fairy bread is a popular Australian snack – and easy to make! Here’s how: https://www.playpartyplan.com/fairy-bread/
• Get creative with fairs with these whimsical crafts to do: https://www.parentmap.com/article/creative-diy-fairy-crafts-kids
• Create a fairy-themed trivia game based on 36 facts about fairies at https://www.griproom.com/fun/36-facts-about-faeries

 

CARE:

• wing the directions at https://laughingkidslearn.com/fairy-mud-for-outdoor-and-sensory-play/
• Sometimes you can’t believe your eyes, even about fairies. Individuals have tried to trick others into believing in fairies by producing faked photographs. Here’s the most popular true story about this deception: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fki-ELK3G5g  The moral of this story is to take care when looking at photos to examine them closely to see if they are real.
• Generative AI makes discernment even more challenging and important, so use these tips to be careful at images: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEhogS_yayY

 

CAREERS:

Do you have flights of fancy and fairies? There’s a job for you: as a storyteller, writer, anthropologist, costumer, party planner, actor, artist, jeweler and more. Sprinkle some dairy dust on your career.

• Interview a fantasy children’s author at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyFaunEL2SU
• https://cfs.osu.edu/about/resources/careers
• See how a fantasy artist works at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9gJyyLqrAE
• Even photographer! https://enchanted-fairies.com/?location=mission_viejo-ca

And here jobs that fairies do: https://theirishfairydoorcompany.com/faqs/what-jobs-do-fairies-do/

 

Root, Root, Hooray!

 Roots can refer to hair or family roots. This topic focuses on plant roots, which are valuable to nature and humans. Dig into roots with these activities.

CONNECT:

• What do roots do? Watch their functions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNmZOJHuf3k&ab_channel=HungrySciANNtist
• Watch how fast roots can grow at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w77zPAtVTuI&ab_channel=GPhase
• Would you eat a root? Watch how people grow root vegetables at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ7KwES45GY&ab_channel=nmsuaces

CREATE:

• Know your roots with this trivia quiz: https://www.funtrivia.com/trivia-quiz/ForChildren/Know-Your-Roots-323200.html
• Chomp on these fun carrot root activities: https://artsymomma.com/fun-carrot-crafts-for-kids.html
• Have a root vegetable tasting party by following these family-friendly directions: https://food.unl.edu/free-resources/newsletters/food-fun-young-children/exploring-roasted-root-vegetables

CARE:

• Another reason to root for vegetables is that they are healthy for you; read what a doctor says at https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-are-root-vegetables
• Soil conservation is made possible largely because of roots; watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNXke_-cnEc&ab_channel=RandburgMontessoriLearningCommunity
• Watch how to plant a garden at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TJuJTFEBbs&ab_channel=SciShowKids

CAREERS:

Want to find your roots in a growing career? You can root for gardeners, cooks, scientisst, and grocers. Consider the possibilities:

• https://mortonarb.org/educators/planted-podcast/
• Visit a sustainable tree farm at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwflaaZ6HNo&ab_channel=MarylandFarm%26Harvest

Go Nuts for Peanuts

When you think of peanuts, do you think of something small? Or a cartoon? Now is the time to think BIG about peanut plants as you do these online activities.  

 

CONNECT:

• Get 25 fun facts about peanuts at https://www.nationalpeanutboard.org/news/fun-facts
• Watch the amazing history of peanuts and peanut butter at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yw5vL7ndowQ
• Why are peanuts at baseball games? Discover the answer at https://www.nationalpeanutboard.org/news/whats-story-behind-peanuts-and-baseball.htm
• Learn about George Washington Carver and 300 uses of a peanut at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7Gb4LfgTW0

 

CREATE:

• Make your own peanut butter by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOmIYNIeaSY
• Try these yummy edible peanut butter crafts for kids at https://funfamilycrafts.com/peanut-butter-crafts-kids/
• Cook up some peanut-friendly food for kids at https://www.nationalpeanutboard.org/recipes/for-kids/
• Watch how to grow your own peanuts at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyCBL5TK_jA

 

CARE:

• Peanuts are not good tasting, but they are good for you; read about their healthy benefits at https://peanut-institute.com/are-peanuts-good-for-a-kids-health/
• However, some people are allergic to peanuts. Find out why at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqBw4tdRw9I
• Find out how safe peanuts are for dogs at https://www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/pet-health/pet-toxins/are-peanuts-safe-for-dogs/

 

CAREERS:

It may be time to get out of your shell and think about a future with peanuts. You can be working for peanuts – and making a good living in agriculture, science, manufacturing, selling, cuisine and more.

• https://www.peanutsusa.com/industry-info/the-peanut-industry.html
• Farming peanuts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6SxMFDf4rQ
• The peanut scientist: https://cals.ncsu.edu/news/faculty-focus-stalker-makes-a-global-and-local-impact/

 

 

Spill the Beans!

 July is National Baked Bean month. Baking is just one way to serve beans, and beans have been srving us for thousands of years. Use your “bean” (brain) to spill the beans on beans with these activities.

CONNECT:

• Read fun facts about beans at https://justfunfacts.com/interesting-facts-about-beans/
• What's inside a bean? Get the inside story at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFmBKpQxf-U&ab_channel=SciShowKids
• Watch the life cycle of a bean at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9C1snqYyf-0&ab_channel=CesarIbarra
• How do Mexican jumping beans jump? Solve the mystery at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZ45se_3TKA&ab_channel=BBCStudios

CREATE:

• Experiment with beans in the kitchen by following the directions at https://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/bean-facts.html
• Get crafty with beans with these fun activities: https://funfamilycrafts.com/bean-crafts-kids/
• Act out being a bean with these warm-up ideas: https://www.teachingideas.co.uk/warm-up-ideas/beans-activity
• Taste-test these 42 kid-friendly bean recipes: https://www.lizshealthytable.com/2020/06/08/42-bean-recipes-kids-and-families-will-love/

CARE:

• Green beans are one of the easiest plants to grow, as seen in this video. Try it yourself: https://youtu.be/OZr4KBcPXiY
• Grow your own lima beans; learn how at https://smartclass4kids.com/lima-beans-facts/
• Beans help you take care of yourself. Get the facts about beans – their history, their variety, and their benefits – at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9ivVEcs6b8&ab_channel=HealthFacts

CAREERS:

Want to grow beans or cook them – or spread the good news about beans? Here are some careers that could sprout up for you.

• https://start.rm.edu/exercise-science-careers/7-careers-in-nutrition/
• Coffee bean growing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kMKRY9AN4U&ab_channel=PotluckVideo
• Exporting beans abroad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4qvHynyPS0&ab_channel=FarmKenya

Don't Be Immune to Vaccines

 

Both humans and some pets get vaccines to stay healthy. What are the facts? Find out by doing these online activities. And keep healthy.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the top 10 facts about vaccines at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/top-10-facts/top-10-facts-about-vaccines/
• Watch how vaccines work, including how it helped win the American Revolution, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WGTa3fhVUc
• Milk is pasteurized. You can thank Louis Pasteur for that – and creating an effective vaccine -- at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lLNZQVPpQA
• Listen to what kids learned from the COVIC-10 vaccine at https://time.com/6112328/vaccination-in-schools-history/

 

CREATE:

• Beat the germs by playing Vax Pack Hero at https://vaxpackhero.com/
• Watch “Getting a shot: You Can Do It!” to get ready to get vaccinated: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWx2WogUFoY
• Sesame Street has lots of fun videos and activities about vaccine. Try a few at https://sesamestreetincommunities.org/subtopics/vaccines/

 

CARE:

• For parents: What are the myths and facts about vaccines? Discover the difference at https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/immunization/vaccines-myths-and-facts
• For families: Should your pet be vaccinated? Find out at https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/Pet-Vaccination/
• For parents: use these immunization resources to help you understand and optimize vaccines for your children: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/resources/childhood.html

 

CAREERS:

From discovery to cure, there are careers related to vaccine. Explore some of these healthy choices:

• https://historyofvaccines.org/vaccines-101/careers-vaccine-research
• https://www.aavmc.org/becoming-a-veterinarian/a-career-in-veterinary-medicine/
• https://jobs.cdc.gov/index.html
• https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/make-a-difference-careers/vaccinations/

 

Look into Lunar New Year

You may have heard of Chinese New Year, but the underlying concept crosses several cultures. Hop into 2023 – the year of the rabbit – with these enlightening activities about Lunar New Year

CONNECT:

• Watch how people celebrate Lunar New Year at https://youtu.be/Mm9LJC_5g2o
• Discover the legend of the Lunar New Year and the Chinese zodiac at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVPHdFX9iHY&ab_channel=PandaExpressTV
• Find out some things things are unlucky do to during Lunar New Year at https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/chinese-new-year-taboos.htm

CREATE:

• Try eating lucky food for Lunar New Year; get the details at https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/lucky-foods-for-your-chinese-new-year-feast/
• Find out your Chinese zodiac sign at https://www.buildingbeautifulsouls.com/zodiac-signs/chinese-zodiac-for-kids/
• Celebrate Chinese lantern festival with the activities found at https://www.misspandachinese.com/happy-lantern-festival-closing-out-chinese-new-year-celebrations-with-a-lantern/

CARE:

• Lunar New Year is a time to wish people good fortune. Read about how Chinese people give money in red envelopes for good luck at https://artsandculture.google.com/story/8-things-you-should-know-about-the-lucky-red-envelope/PwKiICEFJXMOJg
• Fireworks are often part of Lunar New Year – and New Year's eve celebrations. Keep safe by following these tips: https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fireworks.html
• New year is a good time to make a fresh start for yourself and how you connect with other people Here are some idea for kid-friendly new year resolutions: https://aroundthekampfire.com/2021/12/50-new-years-resolution-ideas-for-elementary-kids.html

CAREERS:

Looking to the future for a career? How about planning events? Starting planning your eventful job with these ideas.

• https://online.jwu.edu/blog/8-careers-people-who-love-plan-events
• https://www.socialtables.com/blog/event-planning/event-planning-careers/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/meeting-convention-and-event-planners.htm

Cheers for Chocolate!

 

Many a Christmas stocking will contain chocolate. Indeed, chocolate is associated with several holidays and events in life. The following activities will give you a bigger taste of this delicious confection.

 

CONNECT:

• Answer your questions about chocolate at https://planbee.com/blogs/news/chocolate-facts-for-ks2-children-and-teachers
• See a history of chocolate at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibjUpk9Iagk
• Take a virtual chocolate factory field trip at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC-EnTZrddk

 

CREATE:

• Did you know about National Chocolate Day? You can celebrate it – and chocolate itself – with these fun activities and crafts: https://www.123homeschool4me.com/chocolate-crafts-and-activities-for_44/
• Fill your senses with these chocolate sensory play ideas at https://sugarspiceandglitter.com/10-chocolate-sensory-play-ideas/
• Experiment with chocolate at https://blog.pitsco.com/blog/chocolate-covered-learning

 

CARE:

• Chocolate stains are inevitable. Find out how to remove them at https://kidspot.co.nz/family-time/how-to-remove-chocolate-stains/
• Sadly, some people are chocolate-sensitive or are allergic to chocolate. Discover the symptoms and triggers to chocolate – and how to avoid reactions to chocolate at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317775#Reactions-to-other-ingredients
• Chocolate can lose its taste and appearance, so learn how to preserve chocolate at https://www.fauchon.com/en/mag/advice/how-to-preserve-chocolate/

 

CAREERS:

Does a chocolate-related career sound yummy? There are several possibilities for you then: just like a variety box of chocolates. So take your pick below for a tasty job.

• https://fortune.com/2013/02/14/8-chocolate-covered-careers/
• https://www.institutculinaire.fr/en/news/chocolatier-job-description
• See how chemistry can lead to a chocolate career at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9oBgnZBb-w

Dear Reindeer

 

Dear Reindeer

‘Tis the season to think about reindeer. What is so special about them? Find out the answers and more with the following activities.

 

CONNECT:

• When is a reindeer NOT a reindeer? When it is wild and live in North American – they are then called caribou. Watch more facts about reindeer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXsqn8cskZ8
• Read 12 incredible reindeer facts for Christmas at https://a-z-animals.com/blog/12-incredible-reindeer-facts-for-christmas/?from=exit_intent
• What’s the story behind reindeer and Santa? Get the answer at https://www.cnn.com/2012/12/22/opinion/galloway-reindeer
• Compare deer and reindeer at https://pediaa.com/difference-between-deer-and-reindeer/#:~:text=The%20main%20difference%20between%20deer,second%20biggest%20species%20of%20deer

 

CREATE:

• ‘Tis the season for fun reindeer crafts for kids: at https://www.kitchencounterchronicle.com/20-ridiculously-fun-reindeer-crafts-for-kids/
• Play some reindeer-inspired games at https://www.joyintheworks.com/10-reindeer-games-christmas-parties-family-fun/
• Learn how to make reindeer rockets and other holiday science at https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/reindeer-rockets
• Make magical reindeer food at https://www.inspiringsavings.com/reindeer-food/
• Track Santa and his reindeer journey at https://www.noradsanta.org/en/

 

CARE:

• Do you have a reindeer – or wish you had one? Here is how Santa takes care of reindeer: https://www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/aobrien/2013/dec/facts-about-reindeer-and-life-with-santa-31173
• Discover threats to reindeer/caribou at https://www.arcticwwf.org/wildlife/reindeer-and-caribou/
• You can adopt a reindeer at https://alaskawildlife.org/project/reindeer/

 

CAREERS:

Do reindeer-related jobs sound cool to you? You could raise them, heal them, create art about them, or even cook them (tearfully??). You don’t have to be Santa, and you are not limited to Christmas. Just check out these jobs.

• https://www.theguardian.com/money/2010/dec/18/working-life-reindeer-herder
• https://www.unh.edu/unhtoday/2019/05/reindeer-career
• https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/yourvet/even-santas-reindeer-need-veterinarian

AND here are some weird and wonderful Christmas jobs (including reindeer walker): https://coburgbanks.co.uk/blog/friday-funnies/10-weird-christmas-jobs/