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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Celebrate Camels

 

What comes to mind when you think about camels? The desert? Christmas manger scenes? 2024 is the United Nation has proclaimed 2024 as the year of the Camelidae. Learn why and lots more about camels and their relatives with these fun websites.

 

CONNECT:

• There are different types of camels: read fun facts about them at https://www.coolkidfacts.com/camel-facts-for-kids/
• Camels have been the main way to travel across the desert sands. See how camels adapt to their environment at https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/camels/san-diego-zoo-kids/
• Campers are members of the biological family Camelidae, which also includes llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Find out what connects and distinguishes these family members at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF4UYaiSFms      For a more extensive history of Camelidae, including the 2024 celebration, watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAolb2DYDo8

 

CREATE:

• Many quotes mention camels. You might make posters or a t-shirt using some of these quotes: https://www.wisesayings.com/camel-quotes/
• There are many ways to create a camel. Which one do you want to try? Check out 17 possibilities at https://www.teachingexpertise.com/arts-and-crafts/camel-crafts-and-activities/
• Play a Happy Camel game at https://springroll-tc.pbskids.org/happy-camel/c01ef930ff95427b3d797687fc8ffb7e611ef75c/release/index.html

 

CARE:

• Camels can get aggressive, so what are good practices in connecting with camels? Get some tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8F9y7BCnzQ&t=214s
• Can you “read” camel? Watch how to at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJ2FNBjH_EM
• Did you know that the wild camel is the 8^th most endangered large mammal on the planet? Discover the details at https://www.wildcamels.com/

 

CAREERS:

Are you curious about camels and care for them? How about a camel career? You could be a scientist, a veterinarian, a camel farmer, a camel racer, a tour guide, are even a camel artist! See some of the possibilities here:

• https://www.camelchannel.com/
• https://thefootnotes.com.au/the-humps-of-a-career-in-camel-farming/
• https://www.vetpracticemag.com.au/meet-camel-veterinarian-margie-bale/
• https://www.cnn.com/2017/03/14/sport/camel-racing-robots-uae-thoroughbred-hussain-al-marzooqi/index.html#:~:text=Deep%20in%20the%20heart%20of,be%20upwards%20of%20%242%20million.

 

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

 

Think Ink

 

How often you think about ink? It’s in pins, printers, even animals! Draw upon your new knowledge as you do these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how ink is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01aeHXuiXig
• See how ink was discovered at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0NgOLF8f2M
• What is squid ink? Discover the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiT79Lfxwps
• Read 16 surprising facts about printer ink (and toner) at https://www.tonerbuzz.com/blog/ink-and-toner-fun-facts/

 

CREATE:

• Make your own ink from household ingredients. See the directions at https://www.nps.gov/articles/ink-activity.htm#:~:text=Directions%3A%20Boil%20the%20raspberries%20with,it%20is%20ready%20to%20use!
• Create secret ink(shhh!) by following the directions at https://www.cmosc.org/invisible-ink-science-experiment-for-kids/
• Blow an ink monster ! See how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWZHOzOmGQw

 

CARE:

• For parents: to tattoo or not to tattoo: https://www.healthday.com/health-news/conditions/b-9-10-kids-temporary-tattoos-can-harm-skin-function-2654951206.html
• Watch how to remove ink safely at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atDn_Zi7dSU
• Know someone with a tattoo? See what happens during laser tattoo removal at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6z2VO6pxwM

 

CAREERS:

Want to “ink in” your career? You can become a printer, an artist, a calligrapher, a tattoo artist, an ink manufacturer or seller, or a scientist. That’s a lot of ink! See some possibilities here.

• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Ink-Jobs
• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/calligrapher/
• How to become a tattoo artist: https://youtu.be/MRdl0tn1H0E

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

Clean Up with Soap

 Can you imagine a world without soap? Get the dirt on soap with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• How does soap work? Watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR7agvwDOD4
• Watch this history of soap and how it is made now at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FST4B_IXjUQ
• You can make a soap timeline by using these fun historical facts about soap: https://ukcleaning.co.uk/2017/12/11/15-fun-facts-about-soap-2/

 

CREATE:

• Watch soap grow at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WA30cC9gy0. Then try it yourself!
• Make your own super soap bubbles the scientific way at https://www.homesciencetools.com/article/how-to-make-super-bubbles-science-project/
• Have some clean fun with these soap experiments: https://teachmama.com/soap-experiments/

 

CARE:

• How do soap and water make us clean? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR7agvwDOD4
• Make a special soap gift by carving it. Follow the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlonSS210Qs.  You can make your own design.
• For parents: get tips on cleaning safety for kids at https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/parents-and-caregivers/cleaning-safety-for-kids

 

CAREERS:

Think you’d like to “clean up” by having a soap-related career? Think of the possibilities: car washer, hair dressers, pet groomer, soap maker or seller, cleaner, scientist, even soap artist.

• A day in the life of a pet groomer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXQ9pjEmjkk
• Liquid soap manufacturing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzH2YrT9_p4
• Dry cleaning process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6ZU0Hc3ap8

 

Meteors Rock!

 Think of meteors as space rocks. August is usually the best time to see meteors in the sky. Look into these activities and then look up for meteors.

 

CONNECT:

• What are meteors? Watch the answer and more at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBFfBz0n_SE
• Discover the history of meteors and meteorites at https://bedtimehistorystories.com/history-of-meteors-and-meteorites-for-kids/
• Visit Arizona’s meteor creator virtually at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy3KXDQiTaY
• For teens and adults: watch the tragic history of a meteorite and the Inuits https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvdtWfHpCR4

 

CREATE:

• Learn how to catch a meteorite at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjCK0lRpX04 and here’s a real story of a family who found a meteorite on their driveway!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EHGZywspR8
• Make creators with mini-meteors following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0a-rN5ARLw
• Have a shooting star party! See the details at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/meteor-shower/en/

 

CARE:

• Find out what stops meteors hitting Earth and hurting people at https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-what-stops-meteors-hitting-earth-and-hurting-people-228783
• Find meteorites in your house gutters; watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ej0X60b5dSI
• Learn how to catch a meteorite at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjCK0lRpX04 and here’s a real story of a family who found a meteorite on their driveway!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EHGZywspR8

 

CAREERS:

Want a spacy career? Meteors and their “relatives” may lead to a job where the sky is the limit – like these examples:

• What is a planetary scientist? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoTSNHD6S_U 
• and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngVmV3eokpA
• What is a meteorite hunter? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5sIkYHjVeI

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

 

 

 

 

Sweet on Lemons

 It’s summertime, which often involves lemonade. One song about lemons reminds the listener that the flower is sweet but the lemon is sour. These sweet activities may make you feel less sour about lemons.

 

CONNECT:

• Enjoy fun facts about lemons at https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/food/lemons.html
• See unique aspects of lemons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BydsqVH6sbg
• Discover why lemons are sour by watching https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loMHfA_xNGo 

CREATE:

• Experiment with lemons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNQmXbwJjLw
• Have kitchen fun with lemons at https://www.chopchopfamily.org/kidsclub/kids-club-vol-40-lemons/
• Squeeze out the learning with lemons at https://halseyschools.com/lemon-learning/

 

CARE:

• Check out the health benefits of lemons at https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/lemons
• Clean up with lemons; find out how at https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/20-fresh-ways-to-clean-with-lemon/
• Freshen your house with a lemon pomander; make it yourself following the directions at https://lifeasmom.com/diy-on-a-dime-make-a-citrus-pomander/

 

CAREERS:

Are you sweet on lemons? Several careers await you: gardener, chef, marketer. Read a few opportunities here:

• https://jeffashleylemontree.wordpress.com/careers-in-the-lemon-industry/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfRS6Jhr6ko

Count on Carbon

What do coal and diamonds have in common? They are both carbon! Dig into this fundamental element with these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about carbon at https://easyscienceforkids.com/uses-of-carbon-video-for-kids/
• Watch the carbon cycle – and why it is so important at https://youtu.be/p3R-dB9K4ss
• See carbon chemistry at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gipyujuKMf4

CREATE:

• Draw with carbon in the form at charcoal at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsK2KQoxa-U
• Manage carbon in your garden with the guidance of https://kidsgardening.org/resources/digging-deeper-carbon-cycle-and-carbon-sequestration/
• Experiment with carbon dioxide at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JcEQnDHLi4

CARE:

• Carbon and oxygen together can be healthy or deadly. Discover the impact of carbon monoxide on your body at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/safety-seymour/effects-carbon-monoxide-can-have-on-our-bodies-find-out-with-safety-seymour/
• What is a carbon footprint, and how do you reduce it? Find out at https://www.gokid.mobi/activities-for-kids-to-reduce-carbon-footprint/
• Check out ways to reduce carbon emissions at https://8billiontrees.com/carbon-offsets-credits/carbon-ecological-footprint-calculators/kids/

CAREERS:

Do you see the many career facets of carbon? Scientist, manufacturer, jeweler, artist, health care professional, chef, geologist, policy maker? Here is a glimpse of job opportunities.

• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Carbon-Emissions-Jobs
• Pencil manufacturing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqs3fxfmWr4
• How to cut a diamond: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lk8p0re8Eg
• Carbon projects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yt5ySWAWWWw

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/