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/

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

Fall for Fall

Fall for Fall

It’s the time when there’s more nighttime light than sunlight in the northern hemisphere (the southern hemisphere has the same properties, but it occurs six months different). Discover what makes fall/autumn special with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the signs of autumn at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4pjJ70nC8E
• Why do leaves change color in the fall? See the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4pjJ70nC8E
• Get the facts – 50 of them! – about autumn at https://wellbeingswithalysia.com/kids-autumn-facts/
• Find out how harvest festivals are celebrated around that world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1DPPcBzG6M

 

CREATE:

• Explore autumn outdoors with these fun activities: https://www.famly.co/blog/10-outdoor-activities-to-try-this-autumn
• Experiment with leaves at https://learning-center.homesciencetools.com/article/fall-leaf-science-projects/
• Cook your way through autumn with these kid-friendly recipes: https://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/autumn-cooking-activities.html

 

CARE:

• Keep safe this autumn by following these practices: https://childsafetystore.com/blogs/news/autumn-safety-tips-for-kids#:~:text=Staying%20Safe%20in%20the%20Dark,to%20be%20safe%20than%20sorry.
• Warm up your family coziness by creating a new autumn tradition; here are some ones to consider: https://frayedpassport.com/crafts-cultures-autumn-traditions-harvest-festivals-from-around-the-globe/
• For parents: try this tips for keeping your child healthy this fall: https://annaleemd.com/2023/10/keeping-your-kids-healthy-and-happy-during-fall-tips-for-parents/#:~:text=1.,**Emphasize%20Good%20Hygiene:**

CAREERS:

Is your favorite season autumn? Do you wish it stayed all year round? Maybe autumn can be part of a lifelong career for you: as a scientist, a forest ranger, a cook, a designer, a gardener, an event planner, a farmer, a manufacturer, a sales person, or a photographer. Here is a sampling of opportunities; don’t leave a leaf unturned. (And autumn is the best season for job hunting.)

• https://sunday-dreamers.com/dream-jobs-for-people-who-love-autumn/
• Costume designer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsGakw1Zsik
• A day in the life of an event planner: https://www.tiktok.com/@forbesfunctions/video/7230963600813477166
• Fall farmers’ market https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzLgMtWxct8

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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/

 

Lauding Labor Day

Labor Day is celebrated in the United States on the first Monday of September. Many workers, even teachers, get the day off. Find out why by working on these activities. It’s a labor of love.

 

CONNECT:

• See the history of Labor Day at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KY_L8--kNB0
• Read these facts about Labor Day: https://countryhomelearningcenter.com/labor-day-facts-for-kids/
• When and how is Labor Day celebrated around the world? Find out the answers at https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/common/labor-day#:~:text=When%20and%20Where%20Is%20Labor,May%201%20as%20a%20holiday.
• The US has its own Department of Labor. Be impressed with their history at https://blog.dol.gov/2021/07/27/labor-department-history

 

CREATE:

• Try these family-friendly Labor Day activities: https://www.splashlearn.com/blog/labour-day-activities-for-kids/
• Dress up for Labor Day! Get inspired by these ideas: https://superminis.in/blogs/news/labour-day-fancy-dress-competition-ideas?srsltid=AfmBOooeJIgDouT2nO6QRO9A50pvGgQG1nZ3lqOyJkEMZZnl62aQMAeJ
• Get crafty on Labor Day at https://nationaltoday.com/blog/labor-day-crafts/

 

CARE:

• Learn about child labor reform at https://www.britannica.com/video/226768/did-you-know-child-labor-in-the-United-States
• See how people are combatting current child labor at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckz4qccSVpY
• Labor Day can be a day of service as several of these activities demonstrate (such as thanking workers, volunteering): https://www.care.com/c/6-labor-day-activities-for-kids/

 

CAREERS:

“Labor” means work, especially work that is hard physical work. What are some jobs that demand hard physical work and can be very satisfying? Don’t want to take a job lying down? Get moving with these physically demanding jobs:

• https://stacker.com/careers/50-most-physical-jobs-america
• 15 riskiest jobs in the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nbx_-uvOZCg

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

 

 

 

 

No Kidding on April Fools

 

April Fools' Day has a long history. No kidding! There are lots of fun with these activities.

CONNECT:

• Check out the top 10 facts about April Fools' Day at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/top-10-facts/top-10-facts-about-april-fools-day/
• Watch historical April Fools' Day pranks around the world at https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/april-fools-pranks/
• There's more than one history of April Fools' Day. Read versions at https://greenlight.com/learning-center/fun-facts/april-fools-day

CREATE:

• Play these safe pranks on April Fools' Day: https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/april-fools-pranks/
• And here some more kid-friendly April Fools' Day pranks to play: https://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2017/march/10-hilarious-april-fools-jokes-kids-will-love
• And here are 26 more harmless April Fools' pranks for family and friends: https://www.today.com/life/holidays/april-fools-pranks-rcna75932

CARE:

• For parents: At what age do kids understand pranks? Read pediatricians' answer at https://pediatricassociates.com/community/at-what-age-can-kids-understand-pranks/
• For parents: Pranks and other foolish behavior can get out of hand. Find out how to talk with your children about such consequential actions at https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/why-your-child-acts-that-way
• For parents: Not all pranks are bad; read this advice on teaching your children how to respond to pranks: https://www.languageoflistening.com/pranks-arent-all-bad/

CAREERS:

It's probably not a good idea to do pranks for a living, but you CAN do magic tricks as a job. You might also become a psychologist to help people cope with pranks.

• A magician's life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E010Ne2ST-I
• A child psychologist's life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIM2WCeWaeY

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/

Let there be Light - Festivals!

India just finished celebrating Diwali, and several more light-centric festivals are scheduled soon.

Explore these activities to see the light about these important events.

CONNECT:

• Get the facts (and history) of light festivals at https://facts.net/events/17-facts-about-light-festival/
• See pictures of light festivals from around the world at https://communityoflights.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1117:spectacular-festivals-of-lights-from-around-the-world&catid=68&Itemid=239
• Experience the Hanukkah story at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tws_uMAEOs&list=RDQMtOA86jhwn5c&start_radio=1
• Enjoy the story of Ramaya: the origins of Diwali, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp59n0So-XE&list=RDQMtOA86jhwn5c&index=4
• Discover the origin of Kwanzaa at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUIdFiOMX5k

CREATE:

• Try these ideas to celebrate light in dark times: https://www.kidfriendlydc.com/2020/12/02/ideas-for-at-home-celebrations-of-light-in-dark-times-from-the-washington-waldorf-school/
• Reinact lantern festivals with these activities: https://lanternfestival.uk/lantern-festival-games-and-activities/
• Light up a party with these light festival ideas: https://theimaginationtree.com/light-party-crafts-and-games-for-kids/
• Make your own advent wreath by following the directions at https://happyhooligans.ca/cardboard-roll-advent-wreath-craft/

CARE:

• Get smart candle safety tips at https://smartkids101.com/blog/candle-safety/
• Make luminaries and candle holders as a holiday gift by trying some of the ideas at https://www.redtedart.com/diy-luminaries-and-candle-holders/
• Be a point of light by engaging in service projects for kids: https://www.pointsoflight.org/blog/12-service-project-ideas-kids/

CAREERS:

Do you like to celebrate with light? There's light at the end of the career tunnel for you: as a party planner, an anthropologist, a scientist, a historian, an artist, a cook, or a religious leader. Light the way for others. Light up some ideas with these resources:

• Festival planners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSlPhaLxV28
• Careers in religion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woCgbVWFRIg
• https://www.mashed.com/885179/what-its-really-like-being-a-disney-chef/

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

Farms: Outstanding in their Field

 

What would we do without farms? 800 million people work on farms, which makes sense since everyone has to eat. The following activities “farm out” lots of information for you.

 

CONNECT:

• First, read some fun farm facts at https://www.twinkl.com/teaching-wiki/farm
• You may have a mental picture of a farm, but there are more kinds of farms than you might imagine. See of their varieties at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TamwdrJLvk
• Take a video field trip to an animal farm at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg2ZX0PF-jI
• See how farming differs around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDoV4I0XQSs

CREATE:

• Get ready for fall (and spring) with 60 farm activities for kids: https://www.123homeschool4me.com/25-farm-activities-for-kids_53/
• Feed the animals, plant veggies and learn about life on the farm with these fresh farm crafts for kids! https://artsycraftsymom.com/farm-crafts-for-kids/
• Make hay for a farm-themed party with these farm games: https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/farm-games-for-kids

 

CARE:

• How can we create the perfect sustainable farm? See possible strategies at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFqecEtdGZ0
• Is your family visiting a farm? Watch safety tips for children at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsFtVol0C7Q.  Parents: here are specific factors for children at different ages: https://nasdonline.org/1278/d001082/farm-safety-for-young-children.html
• How do you safely handle livestock? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGudMrUnZgk

 

CAREERS:

Does farming feature in your career dreams?

• Imagine being a farmer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtH7hNKyOD8
• Take a virtual field trip to explore career in agriculture at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJjBpELWXZ0

.

Graduation Time

 

It is time for schools in the US to celebrate graduation. It is an important rite of passage and symbol of achievement. Explore these websites to gradually achieve more knowledge about graduation.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the history of graduation traditions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq6wodqji8U
• Watch these graduation traditions and rituals from around the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-Je5TxmNr0  
• Watch how Finnish students celebrate graduation at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoxSiIb5690
• Decode the meaning of graduation caps and gowns at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbTcUnh2tR4

 

CREATE:

• Try up to 24 ways to celebrate preschool graduation at https://www.pre-kpages.com/end-school-year-activities/
• Listen to this playlist of graduation songs at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i66p0_wZ9F0&list=PLwMMslZU--j7UiQJYDwRcQ1QzrSM-FkrY
• Taste these kid-friendly graduation party snack ideas: https://www.alphabetu.com/blog/2014/03/kindergarten-and-preschool-graduation-party-snack-ideas/

 

CARE:

• Know someone who is graduating? Get inspired with the following ideas for creating a memorable graduation gift: http://twigglemagazine.com/June-activities/graduation-teacher-gift-ideas.html
• Plan a fun graduation party with these ideas from preschool to high school: https://www.parenting.com/activities/family-time/15-graduation-party-ideas-preschool-to-high-school/
• Sometimes youth may party too much graduation time; use these tips to stay safe: https://cadyinc.org/resources/get-the-facts/keeping-your-child-safe-around-prom-and-graduation-time/

 

CAREERS:

Imagine graduating again and again. There are the obvious careers in education, but there are supporting careers as well: event planning, catering, manufacturing, yearbook publishing, photographing – and career advising. It can take a village to graduate.  

• https://www.science.org/content/article/research-your-career-options-well-graduation
• https://www.zippia.com/yearbook-editor-jobs/
• http://becomeaneventplanner.org/event-planning-careers.html
• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/caterer/

 

Please Pass the Pasta

 

Almost every culture has cuisine that includes noodles or pasta. They really are staples in life. Get your “noodle” around this international dish.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how pasta is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u03XLe4GBLQ
• Pasta is over 5000 years old! Watch is history is a few minutes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTOCBaDBVGI
• Here’s what noodles and pasta look like in 13 places around the world: https://www.insider.com/noodles-look-like-around-the-world-2018-8
• Examine this online pasta-noodle gallery: https://foodimentary.com/2013/03/11/national-eat-your-noodles-day/

 

CREATE:

• Even toddlers can have fun with pasta, not just playing with their food, at https://www.playideas.com/pasta-play-ideas/
• Learn how to dye pasta and then make the pieces into masterpieces: at https://artfulparent.com/pasta-art-activities-for-kids/
• Create a trivia facts game using the information found at https://www.factsjustforkids.com/food-facts/pasta-facts-for-kids/
• You can make your own pasta from scratch: watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mLFYqDxShE

 

CARE:

• Make pasty super healthy with these nutrient-packed, kid-friendly pasta recipes: https://www.superhealthykids.com/10-nutrient-packed-pasta-recipes/
• It’s good for kids to learn how to prepare food, and they should usually have an adult around. AND it’s just as important to be safe in the kitchen; watch some tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVtwhOHLP44
• You have heard that chicken noodle soup is good when you’re ill; learn about its medical magic at https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20181226/the-secret-behind-chicken-soups-medical-magic

 

CAREERS:

When you think of pasta production, you can realize the many careers that are related to pasta: farming, manufacturing, selling, cooking – and more indirectly chemist, nutritionist, restauranteer and interior decorator, food critic, even historian.  There’s even a National Pasta Association: https://ilovepasta.org/

 

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

.

Penguins, Please

 

Happy Celebrate National Penguin Awareness Day: January 20! Discover what’s special about these unusual birds as you explore the following activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the facts about penguins at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8qilxaBR20
• Get details about different kinds of penguins at https://kids.kiddle.co/Penguin
• Explore Emperor penguin families at https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/emperor-penguin
• Not all penguins are black and white; learn about some unusual penguins at https://www.antarctica.gov.au/about-antarctica/animals/penguins/unusual-penguins/

 

CREATE:

• Celebrate National Penguin Awareness Day, January 20, with these penguin activities: https://handsonaswegrow.com/penguin-activities/
• Try some of these fun penguin crafts at https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/49375/penguin-activities/
• Here are activities about penguins for preschoolers: https://www.childfun.com/themes/animals/penguins/

 

CARE:

• Several types of penguins are endangered. Find out about their threats and ways you can help at https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/penguin
• Help scientists understand penguin population changes by counting penguins and their eggs at https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/penguintom79/penguin-watch
• Penguins can be so cute; wouldn’t you like one as a pet? Is it safe – or even legal? Get your answers at https://petkeen.com/penguin-as-a-pet/

 

CAREERS:

Here’s a hot idea: making a career out of working with penguins: https://careertrend.com/info-10067059-jobs-interacting-penguins.html

Let the New Year Begin!

This is one year that people are looking forward to, hoping for positive changes. It’s a good time for you to think about your own future – and find out about the past and its traditions. Be happy with these activities for the new year.

 

CONNECT:

• Why do we celebrate New Year’s Day? Watch the answers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKHPtGSwPrQ
• See how other countries usher in the new year at https://bestlifeonline.com/global-new-years-eve-traditions/
• Find out the history of the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl at https://kids.kiddle.co/Rose_Bowl_Game

 

CREATE:

• Celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids with these 12 fun ideas: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/reviewed/2021/12/22/kid-friendly-new-years-eve-ideas/8897889002/
• Count down to the new year with this fun music compilation with your friends from Daniel Tiger's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nzopp23sTI
• Play some awesome New Year’s Eve games: https://mylifeandkids.com/30-awesome-new-years-eve-games-kids/
• Here are 35 New Year traditions to bring you (Good) luck from around the world: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/g25360543/new-year-traditions/

 

CARE:

• Plan a New Year’s Eve party for kids at https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/49138/plan-kids-new-years-eve-party/
• New Year’s Eve often includes fireworks so stay safe with these fireworks safety tips: https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fireworks.html
• It’s time for New Year’s resolutions; try some of these healthy suggestions: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/Healthy-New-Years-Resolutions-for-Kids.aspx

 

CAREERS:

Start the new year about thinking about your future career with these websites and video.

• https://kids.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Career_Sites_for_Kids
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pVyrW_vwaw
• https://www.thebalancecareers.com/helping-your-children-make-career-choices-525407
• https://hirepaths.com/blog/2021/10/04/career-exploration-how-to-encourage-kids-of-all-ages

 

 

Ho Ho Ho for Christmas

 Christmas is celebrated around the world, both as a religious event and as a cultural or commercial time. The following activities offer lots of ways to celebrate the season in many ways.

 

CONNECT:

• Chris IS the reason for the season, and here is why Christmas is celebrated on December 25: https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/25th.shtml
• Read up on the history of Christmas at https://www.history.com/topics/christmas/history-of-christmas
• See how Christmas is celebrated around the world at https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/g4933/christmas-traditions-around-the-world/
• Watch about poinsettias (including their history and pronunciation) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymgdsWr326A

 

CREATE:

• Follow Santa around the world with NASA at https://www.noradsanta.org/en/ (available in 8 languages)
• Get crafty about Christmas at https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/christmas-crafts-for-kids/
• Get a taste of Australia by making these kid-friendly Christmas treats at https://www.bestrecipes.com.au/entertaining/galleries/christmas-recipes-fun-christmas-recipes-kids-cook/67u8212d
• OR go British with these yummy Christmas baking recipes for kids: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/christmas-projects-kids
• Ready to play Christmas games? There are 35 fun ones for the family to enjoy at https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/christmas-ideas/g2725/christmas-games/

 

CARE:

• Keep your holiday peaceful with these holiday safety reminders: https://saferide4kids.com/blog/holiday-safety-reminders/
• Candlelight is lovely but candle burns and uncontrolled fires are not, so here are candle safety tips for kids: https://smartkids101.com/blog/candle-safety/
• Cookie dough ice cream is fun to eat, but you shouldn’t eat raw cookie dough: here’s why: https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/communication/no-raw-dough.html

 

CAREERS:

Christmas is just one calendar day, but year-round careers are built around Christmas: not only the Christian religious life, but also tree farming, event planning, costuming and performance, designing and manufacturing Christmas items – and then selling and using them. Some jobs can make Christmas seem like every day. See samples here.

https://theundercoverrecruiter.com/top-christmas-jobs/https://www.careeraddict.com/christmas-jobs

https://www.coburgbanks.co.uk/blog/friday-funnies/10-weird-christmas-jobs/

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20141222-where-christmas-is-a-way-of-life