Plant Seeds of life

 

You plant seeds. You eat seeds. You make things with seeds. They are the start of many living things. Think of plant seeds as tiny sleeping packages complete with a baby plant, food supply, and protective outer cover. They just need sunlight, water and warmth to grow. Pretty amazing. Find out more about this special part of nature with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how a seed becomes a plant at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rJdVQNy6TY
• See different types of seeds at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BxeVqpY-aA
• We usually think of people planting seeds but plants spread seeds too. Find out how at https://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/gardening_with_children/didyouknow_seeds.shtml

 

CREATE:

• See how seeds grow from the start with this simple activity (and more follow-up projects) at https://www.playdoughtoplato.com/kids-science-growing-seeds/
• Seed a scientist with these seed science activities for kids: https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/seed-science-activities-for-kids/
• Here’s a “ton” of fun seed activities for kids: https://www.howweelearn.com/tons-seed-activities-kids/

 

CARE:

• Discover the nutrition value of seeds at https://plantbasedjuniors.com/nutritional-value-of-seeds-and-kid-friendly-uses/
• Check out these 7 healthy super seeds at https://goodness.com.au/blog/7-healthy-super-seeds-a-guide-to-seeds/
• Some seeds are not only unhealthy; they are poisonous! So watch out for these plant seeds (and what do it if you swallow one) at https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/poison-control-center/poisonous-seeds

 

CAREERS:

Do seeds seem to plant an idea of a job for you? You could be a farmer, a scientist, a gardener, a landscaper, an environmentalist, a food manufacturer, a chef, a sales person, even an artist. Here are some websites about seed-related jobs that might grow into a blooming career!

• https://www.seedyourfuture.org/botanist
• Landscaper life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNFAcNsB5Yo
• Greenhouse manager life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HH6WsN5NI5k&t=2s

Lighten up for Auroras

 

You may know of Princess Aurora (also known as Sleeping Beauty), but do you know about the original auroras: bright dancing lights in the sky? Brighten up your life with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Let NASA enlighten you about auroras at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/aurora/en/
•  Watch the science behind the northern lights at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=we-MfBKx4Bc
• Read 20 Aurora Borealis facts you will love to know at https://hello-aurora.com/blog/20-aurora-facts

 

CREATE:

• Make a magical northern light sky with pastels at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mo8wee7blQ4
• Or paint the aurora with ice cubes at https://www.uaf.edu/museum/education/educators/heliophysics-aurora-outre/activities/pdfs/Paint-The-Aurora-With-Ice-Cubes-Activity.pdf
• Check the Aurora Tracker to find out if you can see the Aurora right now at https://www.explorefairbanks.com/explore-the-area/aurora-season/aurora-tracker/ and check out the Aurora live webcam on this website.
• Create an aurora borealis with milk, oil and food coloring at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YglrrA2XQ5Y

 

CARE:

• Auroras are typically seen in areas that are very cold. Stay warm with these tips: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Winter-Safety.aspx
• There is often ice in areas where auroras are seen. Stay ice-safe with these tips: https://www.blacklinesafety.com/blog/6-tips-for-dealing-with-black-ice
• Auroras are best seen in wilderness areas. Be prepared for the wilderness with these tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBQfaxDiGlw

 

CAREERS:

Want your career to light you up? You would be a scientist, an engineer, a meteorologist (weather expert), a photographer, a tour guide, and more. Light up with these sample career tips.

• https://www.sciencefriday.com/articles/a-physicist-explains-the-shimmering-science-behind-auroras/
• https://globaledge.msu.edu/blog/post/57349/the-northern-lights-tourism-industry
• Meteorologists https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npwXgH5t3o0&t=3s

 

Don’t Lose Your Marble

 

Marble is more than a rock. It is statuesque and a pillar of society. Dig into marble with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• What is marble and how is it formed in nature? See the answers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHgifUKUqWw
• Discover many uses of marbles at https://geology.com/rocks/uses-of-marble/
• Game marbles are made of glass, but they used to be made of marble 1000s of years ago. Watch the history of marbles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mteDMr2pk8M
• Read about the history of marble sculpture at https://mymodernmet.com/marble-sculpture-history/ (for older readers)

 

CREATE:

• Watch how to do marbling at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2yfHwItKks
• Learn how to do painting with marbles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xE7aC4EqiRM
• Enjoy 15 fun ways to play with marbles at https://lappstoys.com/15-fun-ways-to-play-with-marbles-clip-clop-toys/
• Create a marble run experiment at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVEZcBWCqQc

 

CARE:

• See how to maintain marble at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3F80SBGnWk
• Watch how professionals restore marble statues at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kz_nq-HE8Ao
• Help save a marble museum at https://ncph.org/history-at-work/project-showcase-vermont-marble-museum/

 CAREER:

Does marble “rock” you? Several careers await you: sculptor, architect, builder, quarry manager, scientist, restorer, interior designer or decorator. Rock on with these sample jobs.

• Making a sculpture https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vR8ZiT9JTcg&t=59s
• Marble and granite jobs https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Marble-And-Granite-Jobs
• Designing a home made of marble https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw-YJD4Qm0g

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

A tisket, a tasket, let's talk about a basket

 

We see baskets at home, at school, in public places. They are often a big part of Easter. How old are baskets? How have they been used? These questions weave a fun story that you can untangle by exploring these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about baskets at https://kids.kiddle.co/Basket
• Baskets are almost 10,000 years old! Explore their history at https://www.haaretz.com/archaeology/2023-09-27/ty-article/earliest-baskets-in-europe-from-almost-10-000-years-ago-found-in-spanish-cave/0000018a-d71f-d476-abcf-f7ff5b860000
• Compare baskets from around the world at http://blog.projectbly.com/basket-case-baskets-from-around-the-world/

CREATE:

• Start with a couple of easy baskets to make for Easter – or any time – at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tz1ccR4A_Pk
• Have fun with a laundry basket at https://www.first5california.com/en-us/activities/basket-of-fun-toddler/#:~:text=Who%20knew%20a%20simple%20basket%20could%20be%20so%20much%20fun%3F&text=Place%20an%20empty%20laundry%20basket,them%20out%20one%20by%20one.
• Create and use a learning basket at https://www.freeandunfettered.com/montessori-inspired-learning-basket-activities-for-6-year-olds/

CARE:

• Make a morning basket for your family and friends at https://simplyfun.com/blogs/simplyfun-blog/fun-summer-morning-basket-ideas-for-kids
• Gain respect for the Cherokee when you try your hand at native American basket weaving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rt3Zw7WzHCs
• See an example of basket giving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozam1uC0rTg. Maybe your friends can adapt this idea.

CAREERS:

Basket weaving techniques have been handed down through generations, and you can still leran the craft and even make a career of it. Here are a couple of examples.

• Watch how African American history has informed basket weaving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8tEbC1nC0E
• See the genius of a traditional basket weaver at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJOuuoWay-0

And even if you can't make a basket, you can make a career from studying them as an archeologist, selling them, and using them as an interior decorator and gift packager – including for Easter!

OR you can make a basket as a basketball player ;-)

Praise Pottery

 

Pottery has a long, international history. It is not only a useful draft but also an artful one. Get cracking with these activities!

 

CONNECT:

• One of the first civilizations to make pottery were the Egyptians. Get the facts at https://www.historyforkids.net/egyptian-pottery.html
• See how pottery is made around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnsyAmwdIlI
• One special type of pottery is porcelain. See you it is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kab29IfdomQ
• LOTs of facts about pottery can be found at https://kids.kiddle.co/Pottery

 

CREATE:

• Make your own clay by following the directions at https://www.highlightskids.com/activities/crafts/make-homemade-clay#:~:text=Put%202%20cups%20of%20baking,Divide%20it%20into%204%20pieces.
• One of the easiest ways to produce pottery is starting by making a pinch pot. Learn how by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bELgM8aSqLc
• Another easy fun pot to make is a coil pot; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GcpERzRVys
• Act like an archaeologist by piecing the history of pottery together: https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology/archaeology/piecing-it-all-together2#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20most%20common,as%20decorative%20bowls%20and%20vases.

 

CARE:

• Paint your own pottery party with these ideas: https://gluesticksblog.com/paint-your-own-pottery-party-for-kids/
• Have you ever broken pottery? The Japanese transform that breakage into an art form: Kintsugi. Get the details and try it out yourself at https://kids.discoveryplace.org/rockingham/stay-at-home-science/kintsugi-inspired-activity
• For parents: Read about the benefits of pottery for kids at https://ceramic.school/pottery-for-kids/?epik=dj0yJnU9NGo1SWZ1WTRQbUJ1SlJFVmdZelgxUDFQdWJhemV5MW8mcD0wJm49Y2ZQMUVuZEYtNExTSG9ocy1SVDNyUSZ0PUFBQUFBR1dMZG0w

 

CAREERS:

Do you go “potty” (as in very excited) about pottery? A career may await you: as an artist, a chemist, a manufacturer, an interior decorator, a teacher, a sales person, or even an archeologist! Dig into the possibilities here.

• https://learn.org/articles/Careers_in_Pottery_Frequently_Asked_Questions.html
• https://ceramicartsnetwork.org/daily/article/A-Pottery-Paycheck-Expert-Insights-into-Making-a-Living-as-a-Potter
• https://www.uwlax.edu/mvac/process-of-archaeology/lab-analysis/ceramic-analysis/

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/

 

Let the Feathers Fly!

 Have you heard about fine feathered friends? Find out what makes feathers so fine by exploring the following activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about feathers at https://www.treehugger.com/amazing-facts-about-feathers-4863989
• Why do birds have feathers? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGg-CSLBD9c
• Watch how feathers can tell you secrets at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TNv-WLHBkU
• Watch how you can identify feather by their shapes: at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvlyVsIdFIM
• Feathers predate birds – did you know that dinosaurs had feathers? Check it out at https://www.kids-dinosaurs.com/feathered-dinosaurs.html

 

CREATE:

• Try ways to paint with feathers using the ideas at https://earlylearningideas.com/paint-with-feathers/
• Experiment with feathers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqKjsAG6tps
• Play a ninja feather game by following the directions at https://earlylearningideas.com/paint-with-feathers/ 

CARE:

• Watch how birds clean themselves, including their feathers, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etGz3e7TyD8
• Find out if it is safe to collect feathers at https://www.gigglemagazine.com/super-bowl-recipes-kids-will-love/
• For parents: find out about kids’ possible allergies to down pillows at https://www.unitedpharmacies.md/blog/can-a-child-be-allergic-to-down-pillows/

 

CONNECT:

Do feathers give your heart wing? Fly some of these ideas for career opportunities:  scientist, fashion maker, artist, pet expert, manufacturer, even history. Read about feather experts here.

• https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/meet-roxie-laybourne-feather-detective-who-changed-aviation-180971803/
• https://www.hawaiibusiness.com/family-tradition-of-feather-work/
• https://theartssociety.org/arts-news-features/become-instant-expert-snowy-egret-feather

 

 

Put Your Stamp on Life

 People still write cards and letters, which they even mail – along with packages. And stamps have other uses too. Stamp out ignorance by doing these fun activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch why stamps were invented – and why collect them – at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4UaYDxL3w8
• Get fun facts about US postage stamps from the source: at https://facts.usps.com/stamps/
• Explore stamp stories at https://postalmuseum.si.edu/stamp-stories

 

CREATE:

• Be crafty with these 25 stamp activities: https://www.playideas.com/25-super-crafty-diy-stamps-for-kids/
• It’s fun and games for all ages at the National Postal Museum; try some at https://postalmuseum.si.edu/fun-games
• Design your own postage stamps at https://www.pbssocal.org/education/family-math-activity-design-your-own-postage-stamps

 

CARE:

• Show you care by making and mailing cards for hospitalized kids or the elderly; get the details at https://www.doinggoodtogether.org/bhf/create-greeting-cards
• Sadly, some people sell fake stamps; get the lowdown at https://www.uspis.gov/news/scam-article/counterfeit-stamps
• Watch how people feed their families on a food stamp budget at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXKkakwf6Vk

 

CAREERS:

• Want to be a mail career? Watch what they do at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXfL1CdkGT4
• Working for the post office isn’t limited to walking around the neighborhood with letters. See the possibilities at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddvVveMJ2mw
• Watch how stamps get designed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKh3lq6SV84
• OR you can do rubber stamping for fun and profit: https://www.musicalexpert.org/what-is-rubber-stamping.htm#:~:text=Rubber%20stamping%20has%20become%20more,only%20limited%20by%20your%20imagination

Touring Museums - Virtually

You may have heard of museums – and even the names of a few famous ones such as the British Museum in London or the Van Gogh Museum. But you probably have not visited many of them. Now you can – virtually. These online activities introduce you to museums and let you tour them anytime anywhere.

CONNECT:

• What is a museum? And why should you visit them? Get the answers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAr3UZn7nyg&ab_channel=ClickMuseum
• How did museums come about? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iymqBTCUgKs&ab_channel=AccessibleArtHistory
• Watch some unusual museums from around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GiKf0RfcnM&ab_channel=TheBrain

CREATE:

• Virtually tour kid-friendly museums by choosing from the list at https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/135637/virtual-museum-tours/
• The Smithsonian is a set of national museums in Washington, DC, and has as one of its main goals to provide learning activities for young people. Try some of the “fun stuff” for kids and teens at https://www.si.edu/kids
• Create your own virtual museum by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLLD8jceios&ab_channel=BaldGuySci or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqXBT7CB0X4&ab_channel=BethanyThiele%2CArtTeacher

CARE:

• How do museums prepare and preserve their collections? See how natural history is collected and saved at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsKVjmQ-4pQ&ab_channel=PeggyNotebaertNatureMuseum
• Watch how library collections are handled at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UnXsWudagQ&ab_channel=TheMet. You can apply these techniques with books you own or borrow too.
• Here are 10 tips for visiting museums with kids: https://thisismyhappiness.com/tips-visiting-museums-kids/

CAREERS:

Practically any topic can be the focus of a museum: toys, sports, candy, as well as science and history. And there are many museum-related jobs Here are a few curated websites on museum careers.

• https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/history/careers/types-of-museum-careers/
• Art curator: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKgsT5yTEWs&ab_channel=CamilleAllen
• A day inn the life of a museum collection manager: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEzA0kn6wrE&ab_channel=BurkeMuseum

Animal Mothers

 Every animal has a mother. How are they alike – and different? Try these activities to find out. And hug your mom…

 CONNECT:

• Watch 10 caring and devoted animal moms in the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS4JCfzJwz8
• Follow this read-aloud book about how animal babies travel with their mothers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4TIYk5QMbo
• Read about hard-working animal moms at https://www.doi.gov/blog/celebrating-hard-working-animal-moms

 

CREATE:

• Learn about the science of animal babies and their mothers at https://kidsdiscover.com/teacherresources/baby-animals-science-lesson/
• With your mom, act out your inner animal child with these activities:  https://mothernatured.com/children/
• Match animals with their baby names with this game at https://blog.allaboutlearningpress.com/baby-animal-names/ or create this animal baby name game at https://www.kitchencounterchronicle.com/are-you-my-mother-animal-memory-game/

CARE:

• Learn about animal mothers care for their young at https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/ilwnet17-sci-life-young/how-animals-care-for-their-young/
• Learn from animal mothers how to care for children at https://www.inverse.com/science/7-lessons-moms-can-learn-from-animals
• Create animal-based Mother’s Days cards with the templates at https://www.petakids.com/activities/mothers-day-cards/

 

CAREERS:

You can make a career from learning about animal mothers: veterinarian, zoo staff, biologist, wildlife specialist. Your mom would be proud. Read about some possibilities here.

• https://mothernatured.com/parenting/wildlife-and-animal-career-information-for-children-and-teenagers/
• https://brevardzoo.org/the-truth-about-the-best-job-in-the-world/
• https://www.uvisor.com/55-great-careers-working-animals/

 

 

On The Ice

 It’s like magic how water can turn into ice. And all the associations we have with it: drinking with it, healing with it, fighting it, skating on it. Try these icy cool activities below.

 

CONNECT:

Watch the weird and wonder forms of ice at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCsrOHjupio

Humans have appreciated ice for over 3000 years! Discover the history of ice at https://www.icecoldjustice.com/news/the-history-of-ice/#:~:text=The%20practice%20of%20putting%20ice,and%20the%20early%20Islamic%20world.

Refrigerators used to be called iceboxes; find out the reason why at https://www.icecoldjustice.com/news/the-history-of-ice/#:~:text=The%20practice%20of%20putting%20ice,and%20the%20early%20Islamic%20world.

How many ice sports can you think of? Check out 17 types of ice sports at https://www.urby.in/blog/types_of_icesports/

Get inspired with these amazing snow and ice sculptures from around the world: https://stacker.com/stories/3719/50-amazing-snow-and-ice-sculptures-around-world

 

CREATE:

Feel your way with the 33 freezing and fun ice sensory play ideas at https://besttoys4toddlers.com/freezing-fun-ice-sensory-play-ideas-kids/

Try a dozen ways to turn a bag of ice into the best toy ever at https://www.cbc.ca/parents/play/view/12-ways-to-turn-a-bag-of-ice-into-the-best-toy-ever

Explore this interactive science experiments with ice at  https://www.pbs.org/parents/crafts-and-experiments/observing-ice

These ice science experiments for kids – with good critical thinking questions – at https://parentingscience.com/preschool-science-experiment/

You can also have fun with ice games at https://kidadl.com/articles/ice-games-activities-kids

 

 

CARE:

IS it Ok to eat ice? Get the answer at https://www.bellevuekidsdentistry.com/mint-kids-blog/2019/1/16/my-child-loves-crunching-ice-will-it-damage-his-teeth

Did you know that the color of ice can indicate its safety? Learn that trick and watch other ice safety tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G21WyZrhRKw

Get ready for ice by following the guide at https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/winter-safety.html

Use this ice safety education checklist about when and where to go on ice:  https://www.whitehorse.ca/home/showdocument?id=12542

Learn how to properly ice an injury at https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-ice-an-injury-2548842

 

CAREERS:

You can put your career exploring on the ince – in a good way: ask a skater, a chemist, a food preparer, a recreation leader, transportation specialist, even a Zamboni* operator. Chill out with these jobs.

https://www.sciencenewsforstudents.org/article/cool-jobs-careers-ice

https://theartcareerproject.com/careers/ice-sculpture/

https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Olympic-Figure-Skater

 

*Zamboni: a machine at resurfaces ice

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Stand Up for Statues

 

Statues memorialize important people and animals: not only famous ones but also unknown ones who made a difference in history. Discover the importance of statues in the following activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about the most famous statue in the US that greets newcomers: The Statue of Liberty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usHRc7G0gVo
• Another famous American statue is the Oscar; see how it is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNPPHBZjUXI
• Do you wonder about Egyptian statues? Dig up the facts about them and other Egyptian sculptures at https://www.historyforkids.net/egyptian-sculpture.html
• Watch how a marble statue is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vR8ZiT9JTcg
• There are lots of horse statues in Washington, DC: Why? Get the answer – and find out some myths -- at https://www.washingtonian.com/2008/10/02/washingtoniana-whats-up-with-those-horse-statues/
• See 23 unbelievable statues and other sculptures at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh6QiH9ZVSk

 

CREATE:

• Statues can be made with different kinds of materials; experiment with some and even create your own Statue of Liberty at https://www.ehow.com/list_6504456_activities-kids-build-statue-liberty.html
• Play Statues by following the directions at https://www.mainstages.com/blog/statues/
• Draw Easter Island Moai statues; see how to do that at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5Kr-1JY3qE – and watch the story of those statues at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4U5Y7MSAJc
• Want a fun hobby? Photograph action statue figures; watch how a professional does it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZlOnW8ovjc

 

CARE:

• Statues wear down by weather and use. See how they can be preserved at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BFK3pas-J4
• Learn how to care for your own toy statues and action figures at https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/care-for-action-figure-collection-17920
• Does your family have a plaster statue? See how to waterproof them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BFK3pas-J4

 

CAREERS:

Don’t just stand there; statues can lead you to a great career: studying them, making them, selling them, displaying them, preserving them – or be a living status. See some possibilities here.

• https://www.theartcareerproject.com/careers/sculpture/
• https://work.chron.com/careers-art-majors-7336.html
• https://study.com/articles/Sculpture_Artist_Information_for_Sculpture_Art_Students_Starting_a_Career_in_Sculpting.html
• https://careerplanet.co.za/careers-listing/living-statue/

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Don’t Say Goodbye to Animals and Plants Yet

 

There are between 7 and 10 MILLION species on earth, but up to a third are threatened with extinction. Let’s try to explore these animals and plants before they become extinct – and try to help them thrive.

 

CONNECT:

• Learn top 10 facts about endangered species: https://www.theschoolrun.com/homework-help/conservation-and-endangered-species
• This century has been called the 6^th age of extinction. Watch out why at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaKTGJ1UAGM
• Why do animals become endangered? Several answers are given at https://kidsdiscover.com/spotlight/endangered-species/
• Plants are endangered too; see some examples at https://www.pbs.org/video/endangered-species-endangered-plants-vmc1fj/

 

CREATE:

• Give a hand to endangered animals at https://www.greenkidcrafts.com/endangered-animal-handprint-craft/
• Here are 13 activities for kids to learn about endangered species: https://www.naturespath.com/en-us/blog/13-activities-kids-learn-endangered-animals/
• Get arty with these project ideas about endangered species: http://www.savingendangeredspecies.org/art-and-craft-activities.html

 

CARE:

• See some of most endangered animals – and what you can do to save them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1IDQSeJ1cs
• Here are 9 ways you can help threatened species: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/factsheet-green-kids-guide-threatened-species-9-ways
• Worldwildlife.org suggests several ways that you can make a big difference in helping endangered species: https://www.worldwildlife.org/how-to-help

 

CAREERS:

There’s no danger that a job involving endangered species will go extinct. Check out some of the lively career possibilities.

• https://wildlife.org/next-generation/career-development/careers/
• https://www.trade-schools.net/articles/wildlife-jobs
• https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/endangered-species-biologist

Palms Up for Palm Trees

 

You’ve seen one palm tree, you’ve seen them all, right? NO! There are about 2600 species of palm trees. Investigate the various aspects of palm trees in these Internet activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Discover the facts about palm trees, one of the best known and most widely planted tree families, at https://garden.lovetoknow.com/trees/palm-trees
• Watch where palm trees come from at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0IjENkhaAU
• See more than 25 uses for coconut and palm leaves at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsLSHDd4dFU

 

CREATE:

• Watch how to draw a palm tree at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nvxUZglP5E
• Learn how to cook with coconuts at https://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/coconut-facts.html
• Create a cool Hawaiian luau party for your friends: https://www.coolest-kid-birthday-parties.com/luau-party/

 

CARE:

• Discover the health benefits of coconut at https://healthy-kids.com.au/coconuts-need-know/
• Dates grow on palm trees – and they are good for kids; find out the facts at https://www.indiaparenting.com/health-benefits-of-dates-for-kids.html
• How healthy is palm oil? Find out at https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/39492207

 

CAREERS:

Are you swayed by palm trees? There may be a fruitful career for you – as a botanist, a gardener, a chef, an artist or decorator. Even climbing up trees!  Climb up a palm tree career.

• https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/careers-with-plants/
• https://www.zippia.com/tree-trimmer-jobs/
• https://www.botany.org/Profiles/Scott_Mori.php

 

Fibonacci Numbers: Nature’s Code

 Nature isn’t as random as you might think. Mathematicians have coded patterns in nature, and Fibonacci’s sequence is one of the most famous – and seen in art as well as the physical world. Explore the following sequence of activities to see the pattern.

 

CONNECT:

• What is a Fibonacci sequence? See the answer at https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/math_nature/fibonacci-sequence/
• Who was Fibonacci? Find out at https://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/the-feed/its-everywhere-you-look-but-have-you-ever-heard-of-fibonacci
• Where do you see Fibonacci’s sequence? At https://insteading.com/blog/fibonacci-sequence-in-nature/

 

CREATE:

• Paint like Fibonacci-inspired Mondrian following the directions at https://teachbesideme.com/mondrian-style-fibonacci-art/
• Start with nature to explore Fibonacci numbers at https://youtu.be/ahXIMUkSXX0
• Explore Fibonacci math at http://www.maths.surrey.ac.uk/hosted-sites/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html

 

CARE:

• Why does nature choose to follow the Fibonacci sequence? Discover the advantages at https://www.mathsisfun.com/numbers/nature-golden-ratio-fibonacci.html
• The conservationist Sierra Club salutes Fibonacci too: https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/2015-2-march-april/green-life/wide-eyed-look#6
• Our face models Fibonacci’s sequence; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy6cqVUloJQ. Explore other parts of your body follows the sequence: arms, hands, and so on.

 

CAREERS:

Do you see patterns in numbers? You might see math in your future – as a mathematician, sure, but also as a statistician, a scientist, an engineer, a computer programmer, an architect, an artist, or a business person.

https://www.stemjobs.com/fibonacci-day/

https://www.mathscareers.org.uk/article/the-mathematics-of-rabbit-island/

https://recompilermag.com/issues/issue-8/finding-a-path-with-the-fibonacci-sequence/

https://dribbble.com/tags/fibonacci_sequence