Go to Bat for Baseball

 

It’s summer time and baseball time. And it’s the United States national pastime. Have a homerun experience doing these online activities about ballgame.

 

CONNECT:

• Read fun baseball facts for kids at https://www.coolkidfacts.com/baseball-facts-for-kids/
• Watch the history of baseball at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1459SxYqNk
• Discover how a baseball is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PesSaqUb568
• Find out where based is played outside the U.S. at https://www.mlb.com/news/baseball-in-other-countries

 

CREATE:

• Lots of baseball teams have activities for you and your family; see the list at https://www.mlb.com/news/baseball-themed-home-activities-for-kids
• Have fun with these 10 baseball games of kids at https://activeforlife.com/10-baseball-drills-and-games-for-kids/
• Try these 10 awesome baseball crafts for kids at https://www.therealisticmama.com/10-awesome-baseball-crafts-for-kids/
• Learn math the fun way - with baseball -- at https://stressfreemathforkids.com/members-only/using-baseball-to-teach-math/

 

CARE:

• Follow these baseball safety tips at https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/safety-baseball.html (en español: Consejos de seguridad sobre el béisbol)
• Find out what are the most common baseball injures and how to prevent them at https://www.childrenshospital.org/sports-injury-prevention/baseball
• Check out the safety code for Little League at https://www.littleleague.org/playing-rules/appendices/appendix-b/

 

CAREERS:

Are you bats about baseball? Becoming a professional baseball player is very competitive. Lots of other jobs relate to and support baseball: coaches, accountants, stadium managers, transportation and hotel staff, sports equipment and clothing manufacturers and sellers, journalists, sports casters, videographers and photographers, media producers, statisticians, even librarians. You definitely can be a team player in the sports career world. Here are a few examples.

• Major League baseball career options: https://www.mlb.com/careers/home
• How to become an MLB pro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAZ0Wxj1F4c
• https://www.sportsmanagementworldwide.com/jobs-in-baseball
• https://baseballjobsoverseas.com/
• https://katiequinn88.com/the-sports-librarian/

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

Get On the Ball with Basketball

 

It’s March Madness time in the United States: the time to celebrate the best in collegiate basketball. And it is a game that you can play year round. Get the ball rolling with online activities about basketball. GO, team!

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the history of basketball at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0qn56l1ElU
• Discover a 14-year old girl who hold 3 Guinness world records for her basketball skills at https://kids.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/young-achievers/zaila-avant-garde
• See simple basketball adaptations for kids with disabilities at https://kids.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/young-achievers/zaila-avant-garde

 

CREATE:

• Watch how to play basketball around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCYAeuepnNw&t=25s
• Play 22 fun basketball games for kids at https://proformancehoops.com/22-fun-basketball-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOopus7MA1iARVarbr7RZlsE3lWKrZrkX9qWcYoJfKG4eOcH_Jwwu
• Make a mini paper basketball game by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMBRQmjX6nc

 

CARE:

• Play basketball safely by following these tips: https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/safety-basketball.html
• Practice 5 essential exercises to prevent youth basketball injuries at https://www.therapeuticassociates.com/5-essential-exercises-to-prevent-youth-basketball-injuries/
• Learn about The USA Basketball Open Court program, which connects children to local facilities with the goal of encouraging basketball participation in a fun and safe environment, at https://www.usab.com/play/opportunities-in-your-community

 

CAREERS:

Lots of kids want to become professional basketball players but it is a very competitive career. What are some other possibilities? You can be a manager, a sports writer or commentator, a basketball teacher or coach, a manufacturer or seller of basketball equipment and swag, a basketball event planner, or a physical therapist. Check out some of the possibilities.

• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Basketball-Related-Jobs
• https://jobs.community.kaplan.com/career/basketball-commentator
• How basketballs are made: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xw1k0RCI7uc

 

Corn is poppin' good

You probably eat more corn than you imagine, and it is in more things than you imagine. Dig into these online activities to see how often corn pops up!

CONNECT:

• Watch the history and growth of corn at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyPVqNu9NPI
• Learn about different types of corn at https://wicorn.org/resources/corn-facts/
• Discover what makes popcorn pop at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJjsKJJHIYY&t=93s
• Explore 10 surprising products made from corn at https://kidseatincolor.com/corn/

 

CREATE:

• Create of trivia game using these fun corn facts: https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/food/corn.html
• Create Cute Corn Crafts by following the directions at https://www.nestle-cereals.com/uk/blog/kids-activities/easy-corn-crafts
• Make corn dance with this science experiment: https://youtu.be/RDRU064CZNU

 

CARE:

• Corn not only tastes good but it is also good for your health. Read 5 reasons why at https://www.healthyfood.com/advice/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-corn/
• Corn is sometimes used in grain boxes and play bins. Check out safety concerns and good alternatives at https://marshfieldresearch.org/Media/Default/NFMC/PDFs/Corn%20Boxes%20and%20Play%20Bins.pdf
• Discover ways to recycle corn cobs at https://www.wastex.io/post/corn-cob-uses
• For parents: get tips on helping your kids to eat corn at https://kidseatincolor.com/corn/

 

CAREERS:

Are you all ears about having a corn-filled career? You could be a cook, a farmer, a scientist, a researcher, a manufacturer, or even a marketer. Here are some possible ways to grow a great, corny job.

• https://www.wastex.io/post/corn-cob-uses
• https://nebraskacorn.gov/cornstalk/trade/11-in-demand-careers-in-agriculture-besides-farming/
• Harvesting corn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsYfpJ2IgWY

 

 

 

Doves are COO!

Doves are often associated with peace and love. Both ideas are timely – and now’s the time to put your heart into these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Watch about the world of doves at https://youtu.be/1zgA3TGMNYQ
• Read about doves (and pigeons) as symbols at https://kids.kiddle.co/Sign_of_the_Dove and (for older kids at https://wysinfo.com/doves-and-pigeons-in-history/)
• Get 10 fun facts about mourning doves at https://www.audubon.org/magazine/10-fun-facts-about-mourning-dove

 

CREATE:

• Get inspired by over a dozen dove crafts at https://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/dovescraftsideasactivitieskids.html
• Play a hopeful dove relay by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Abt4diHhuo
• Feel free as you dance to this musical game about doves: https://www.letsplaykidsmusic.com/open-the-dovecote-ring-game/

 

CARE:

• Watch what do to if you find a baby dove or other baby bird at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPhVJRvzZFo
• Learn how to care for a pet dove at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srPvKJCLZ0c&t=76s and get more details at https://www.petmd.com/bird/dove-care-sheet
• See how people have helped to revive the extinct Socorro Dove at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-Dwm0b2Zoc

 

CAREERS:

Are you lovely-dovey about an avian (bird) career? Besides being an ornithologist who focuses on the study and care of birds, you could be a bird breeder and trainer, a zookeeper, a pet store owner, a veterinarian, a fashion designer or manufacturer, a conservationist, and even a bird census taker. Here is a bird’s eye-view of some of the job possibilities.

• https://www.globalyoungbirdersnetwork.org/bird-related-careers.html
• Ornithologist interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LvtC8N9CNA
• https://abcbirds.org/careers
• Bird monitors: https://www.birdpop.org/pages/jobs.php
• Zoo bird keeper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBB7kXVTubI

 

(Ice) Skating By

 

The Winter Olympics has started, which includes the popular sport of ice skating. Explore the world of skating with this online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Discover 50 fun ice skating facts at https://www.polyglidesyntheticice.com/blogs/news/ice-skating-facts?srsltid=AfmBOooZnguqCZBTg1p5iIfTA3CP2VKd_SXWiX8XvfYGJmAmh-jWePhz
• Watch the history of ice skating at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fD_MLwozfEo
• Get the facts about figure skating at the Olympics games at https://www.kidcyber.com.au/figure-skating
• Explore the science of ice skating at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlYX7Dtv_R0

 

CREATE:

• Make your own ice skates following the directions at https://www.ourkidthings.com/paper-plate-ice-skating-craft/
• Make a mini skating rick at https://youtu.be/wXKwIajcXnI
• Pretend ice stake with this simple activity: https://positiveparentingconnection.net/ice-ice-baby/
• Create your own pretend ice skating rink play center with these ideas at https://pocketofpreschool.com/ice-skating-rink-in-dramatic-play-center/

 

CARE:

• Discover the benefits of ice skating for kids at https://www.aviatorsports.com/about/news/benefits-of-figure-skating/
• Watch how to buy kids’ ice skates at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HR38Tk7iPcY
• Check out these ice skating safety tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sET2FQfpV20
• Do you ice skate? Watch how to care for them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUKcMJN5q6o

 

CAREERS:

Think ice skating is a chill career for you? Besides being a professional ice skater, you could focus on hockey, teach ice skating, manufacture or sell ice skates, work at an ice skating rink, make ice skating costumes, and heal ice skating injuries. Here are some examples:

• https://usfigureskating.org/sports/2025/11/5/pathway-to-national-team.aspx
• An ice skater’s daily routine (18 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXEOkjr48S4
• Manufacturing ice skates: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_mb4-tL9NA
• The world of Zambonis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_mb4-tL9NA
• Making an ice skating dress: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9GwfmYlo8o

 

 Schools often teach about the Pilgrims, but that’s just the start in terms of these early settlers in America. Explore more about them with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the history of Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBjqrKyfRnA
• Read five surprising facts about the first Pilgrims in America at https://worldstrides.com/en-us/teachers/how-it-works/blog/5-facts-you-probably-didnt-know-about-the-pilgrims
• The pilgrims, puritans, and Quakers all came from England in the 1600s; what is the difference between them? Get the answer at https://13colonies.mrdonn.org/pilgrims-puritans-quakers.html

 

CREATE:

• Get crafty at Thanksgiving with these fun activities and crafts: https://www.honest.com/blog/baby/fun-and-crafty-thanksgiving-activities-for-kids/2020111804.html?srsltid=AfmBOorczW4YlmGqgfw0WySJjoPnqWca9UnO4m4V1Z5ID76l5MjrueTe
• Imagine the life of Pilgrims with these activities: https://howtohomeschoolmychild.com/5-fun-activities-to-help-teach-your-kids-about-the-first-thanksgiving/
• Get authentic with these activities –talk like a Pilgrim and play like one –from the Plimoth Museum: https://plimoth.org/for-students/activities-games

 

CARE:

• Make a Thanksgiving care package for friends and community members at https://themondaybox.com/thanksgiving-care-package/
• Participate in Operation Turkey to help feed families in need at https://www.operationturkey.com/
• Try some of these ways to Give Thanks at this time of the year (and the rest of the year): https://simplepurposefulliving.com/thanksgiving-gratitude-activities-for-families/

 

CAREERS:

The term Pilgrim is often associated with a past English religious sect – and you could make a career learning and teaching about them as a historian, a museum expert, an educator, or a religious leader; you could also reenact being a Pilgrim at an event or historical site. Make history come alive! Here are some possibilities.

• Pilgrim Progress reenactment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNXOsUn486E
• Museum careers: https://www.tiktok.com/@historyonholiday/video/7173821844812827947
• Career options in history: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pQ57I_y9kg

Weaving It All Together

The world might fall apart if weaving didn’t exist. Weaving is largely a human endeavor, especially when it creates a recognizable pattern. Let your thoughts weave together in doing these online activities about weaving.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about weaving at https://kids.kiddle.co/Weaving
• See a brief history of weaving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq58FAhuhxM
• See a simple hand weaving process at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/WrMpPZ9GPHw
• Watch how a basket is handwoven at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/UEo6F_wZFt0
• See the machinery involved in an industrial loom at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7vy-wrP1SQ
• For more advanced information: read about Navajo weaving at https://kids.kiddle.co/Navajo_weavingwhy

 

CREATE:

• Weave a fish by following the visual directions at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1hqt2MMPJ5c
• Weave a rainbow; see how at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/G3LKt_HWuJY
• Use your fingers to weave, as shown at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/KPUmCkHmn_o

 

CARE:

• You can use a weaving technique to fix a hole in a sock (it’s called darning) by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pdDY4dLKdo
• See how to stop your fabric from fraying at https://www.tiktok.com/@vikasspace/video/7259130558888938779?lang=en
• Get tips for taking care of woven baskets at https://www.wickerwoman.com/articles/basket-care#:~:text=Keep%20Baskets%20out%20of%20Sunlight,stains%2C%20mold%2C%20and%20mildew.

 

CAREERS:

You can weave a good career by weaving, whether it is with hair, baskets, fabric, furniture, rungs, even industrial conveyor belts. You can do it by hand or by machine—or you could teach weaving. It’s your choice! Here are some examples:

• https://careers.acteonline.org/career/weaving-instructor#:~:text=Weaving%20Instructor%20Career%20Paths,publishing%20instructional%20materials%20and%20guides.
• Colonial basket weaver: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLNfZJD06uQ
• OR you can be an underwater basket weaver: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VumIcyGUyJ0

Clowning Around

 

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

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

 

 

And All That Jazz

 

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

Great Mardi Gras!

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

 

 

 

 

Great Grains!

 

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

Windows to the World

 

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

National Anthem Pride

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

Soup's On!

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

 

CONNECT:

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

 

CREATE:

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

 

CARE:

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

 

CAREERS:

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

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

 

New Years Past Present and Future

 

Each new year is a new beginning. How are those new years celebrated – ad how have they been celebrated in the past? Discover something new this year with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Why do people celebrate New Year’s Day? See why at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKHPtGSwPrQ&ab_channel=Hey%21GuessWhat
• Watch 25 unique ways to celebrate the new year at https://youtu.be/4fM9d6Ci5rg
• January is named for Janus—but who is he? And what does he have to do with New Years? Get the answer at https://kids.kiddle.co/Janus

 

CREATE:

• Start the year with a party? Get some fun ideas at https://www.engaginglittles.com/new-years-eve-kids-activities-2/
• Get the family together for new year’s eve games at https://www.playpartyplan.com/new-years-eve-minute-to-win-it-games/
• Bring in the year with these kid-friendly crafts: https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/new-years-eve-ideas-kids/

 

CARE:

• Resolutions are a good time to set goals for the new year. Get inspired by these kid-friendly resolution (and their pet supporters) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isec6nrPRjM&ab_channel=MissDahlman%27sWorld
• One way to have a good new year is to stay healthy. Get some good ideas for healthy resolutions at https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/Healthy-New-Years-Resolutions-for-Kids.aspx
• Fireworks are commonly seen on New Year’s Eve (and 4^th of July and other holidays). Let Fido the Fire Dog help you keep safe at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm8s2vIcpqI&ab_channel=AvonFire%26RescueService

 

 

 

CAREERS:

New Year’s Day is a good time to think about your future. Here are some tips for exploring your future.

• https://codakid.com/blog/preparing-kids-for-the-future/5-things-that-all-kids-should-study-to-get-a-high-paying-job-in-the-future/
• https://www.kaixr.com/post/career-exploration-for-kids
• Ways that parents can help: https://www.connectionsacademy.com/support/resources/article/career-goals-among-children/

 

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

 

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