#VirtualBGCWC

#VirtualBGCWC - May 11-16, 2020

Fri, 08 May 2020 17:10:19 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful tips to help you throughout the week:

Monday - NATIONAL EAT WHAT YOU WANT DAY

Observed annually on May 11th, National Eat What You Want Day sets diets aside for a day of indulgence. It’s about having one day a year of eating with no regrets. Whether you love donuts or fast food, today is your day to gratify without feeling guilty.

Chili cheese dogs, greasy hamburgers, french fries, potato chips, cake, cookies, candy, and ice cream are just a few of the things you can enjoy today without remorse. Decadent food is definitely on the menu today. The saying, “Everything in moderation” applies to this holiday quite aptly. Though, we’re not quite sure they meant EVERYTHING at the same time.

However, a sample of this and a sample of that sure has a way satisfying a sweet tooth or a greasy yearning. Need a salt fix? This holiday offers it. How about a crunch craving? Yep, we’re sure you can find what you’re looking for. Whether it’s a rich, fried or fast, frozen, baked, or spicy eat what you want.

Some of us have that one irresistible food that we avoid at all costs because we know if it’s in the house we’ll eat it all. It’s our weakness, our kryptonite. This holiday suggests that we bend to our kryptonite just this one time each year.

HOW TO OBSERVE #EatWhatYouWantDay

What’s your kryptonite? Will you be celebrating with a bite of your favorite dessert or snackfood? Celebrate this fantastic food day by eating your favorite foods. Call a friend and go out for some fun and indulgence. Post a picture of you eating your favorite food on social media.

NATIONAL EAT WHAT YOU WANT DAY HISTORY

Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy of wellcat.com, Eat What You Want Day is just a way to enjoy life with friends and family. Many nutritionists even agree that “taking a short break” from your diet regimen is actually good for you.

Tuesday - NATIONAL LIMERICK DAY

Observed annually on May 12, National Limerick Day celebrates the birthday of English artist, illustrator, author and poet Edward Lear (May 12, 1812 – Jan. 29, 1888). Lear is known mostly for his literary nonsense in poetry, prose and limericks.

National Limerick Day also celebrates the limerick poem. Limerick poems were popularized by Edward Lear’s book “Book of Nonsense” in 1846.

A limerick is a very short, humorous, nonsense poem. Within a limerick, there are five lines. The first two lines rhyme with the fifth line and the third and fourth line rhyme together. The Limerick also has a particular rhythm which is officially described as anapestic trimeter.

THERE WAS A YOUNG LADY By Edward Lear

There was a Young Lady whose chin

Resembled the point of a pin;

So she had it made sharp, and purchased a harp,

And played several tunes with her chin.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Sit down and write a few limericks of your own. Share your limerick by posting on social media.

Wednesday - NATIONAL FROG JUMPING DAY

Observed each year on May 13, National Frog Jumping Day is a favorite of young and old alike.

In 1865, Mark Twain published his first short story, Jim Smiley and His Jumping Frog . Later, he changed the name and published it as The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County . This same story also had a third title, The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County .

The current frog jumping record was set in 1986 by Rosie the Ribeter, who jumped 21 feet, 5-3/4 inches.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Show us how far you can frog jump and post a video on social media.

HISTORY

Mark Twain’s story about a pet frog named Dan’l Webster and a casual competition between two men betting on whose frog jumps higher, is the origin of National Frog Jumping Day. The annual Frog Jumping Contest, which began in 1849 in Calaveras County, California is also an origin of this holiday. The international counterpart of this celebration is February 19.

Thursday - NATIONAL DANCE LIKE A CHICKEN DAY

Dance Like a Chicken Day is observed each year on May 14th! This day entertains from start to finish! Everyone has probably danced the “Chicken Dance” at least once in their lifetime. This silly fun song is popular at wedding dances, Oktoberfest, and other celebrations. The song gets people of all ages up and moving on the dance floor.

Written in the 1950s by Werner Thomas, a Swiss accordionist, the Chicken Dance didn’t even make it to the United States until sometime in the 1970s. The Chicken Dance is associated with polkas or oom-pah-pah music. Originally written with the name Der Ententanz (The Duck Dance), it was rumored to have been written as a drinking song for Oktoberfest. The song’s name was later changed to Vogeltanz (The Bird Dance).

Upon arriving in America in the 1970s, the song had acquired choreography with repetitive beak, wing, and tail motions as well as the new name, The Chicken Dance.

Cincinnati, Ohio — September 20, 2004 — At the Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, rock musician Vince Neil served as Grand Marshall at the World’s Largest Chicken Dance.

Judson Laipply’s Evolution of Dance featured “The Chicken Dance.”

November 13, 2009 — In support of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario , CIHT-FM played “The Chicken Dance” continuously until 389 tickets for the CHEO Dream of a Lifetime were purchased for $100 each. They played for over 3 hours straight.

April 23, 2010 — An attempt at the World’s Largest Chicken Dance record was held at Byron Center, Michigan at Jake’s Restaurant in a fundraiser for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Jake’s Restaurant is the site of a giant plastic chicken sculpture.

July 4, 2010 — Mandan, North Dakota established a new World Record for the Longest Chicken Dance at their annual Independence Day Parade and Street Festival. The Mandan, ND “Chicken Dance” line covered twenty-four city blocks and was 1.627 miles long.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Share you chicken dancing on social media.

How to Chicken Dance Video - https://youtu.be/e1DSqeU62Hs

Friday - NATIONAL ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY

Each year on the third Friday in May, National Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for everyone to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species, their habitats and the actions necessary to do so. Every year you can participate along with thousands of others at events to celebrate National Endangered Species Day at wildlife refuges, zoos, parks, community centers, aquariums, botanical gardens, libraries and schools.

The 40th anniversary of the Federal Endangered Species Act was observed in 2013. Designed to protect critically imperiled species from extinction as a “consequence of economic growth and development untempered by adequate concern and conservation.” The act was signed into law by President Richard Nixon on December 28, 1973.

The Act is administered by two federal agencies, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

HOW TO OBSERVE

Look up some endangered animals in your area and share post on social media.

HISTORY

Our research found the National Endangered Species Day was enacted in 2006 by the United States Senate.

Saturday - ARMED FORCES DAY

Armed Forces Day is a day to pay tribute to the men and women who serve the United States Armed Forces. The day is celebrated on the third Saturday in May and is part of Armed Forces Week.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Share with us your favorite US Armed Forces person and post on social media.

HISTORY

It was with the idea for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country that President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish this single holiday. The one-day celebration then stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense. It was on August 31, 1949, that Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and Air Force Days.

Parades, open houses, receptions and air shows were held to celebrate the first Armed Forces Day held on May 20, 1950.

1962 – President John F. Kennedy established Armed Forces Day as an official holiday.

The United States longest running city-sponsored Armed Forces Day Parade is held in Bremerton, Washington.

2012 – Bremerton celebrated the 64th year of the Armed Forces Day Parade.

For more information and an Armed Forces Day Poster see: http://www.defense.gov/afd/

#VirtualBGCWC - May 4-9, 2020

Mon, 04 May 2020 22:07:48 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful tips to help you throughout the week:

NATIONAL STAR WARS MONDAY

May the Fourth be with you each year on National Star Wars Day. Or is it, “May the force be with you?” It all depends on whether you like using puns or not.

Thousands of Star Wars enthusiasts celebrate this day each year with parties and celebrations around the nation.

Star Wars fans didn’t first introduce the often quoted phrase on May 4th. It was 1979, and Britain elected the first female Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher. On May 4th, the day she took office, the Conservative Party placed an advertisement in The London Evening News, which read, “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie. Congratulations.”

Star Wars creator, George Lucas, was asked during a 2005 interview on a German news TV channel to say the famous sentence “May the Force Be with You.” Upon doing so, the interpreter interpreted the sentence into German as Am4 Mai sind wir bei Ihnen (On May 4 we are with you). TV Total captured this and aired it on May 18, 2005.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalStarWarsDay

Wear your Wookie costume or bring your lightsaber. The prepare for warp speed. Wherever you go, may the fourth be with you. Oh, and be sure to watch some Star Wars films or play some trivia. Make some outer space snacks to enjoy, too. Use #NationalStarWarsDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL STAR WARS DAY HISTORY

National Star Wars Day was first organized in Toronto, Ontario, Canada at the Toronto Underground Cinema in 2011. Produced by Sean Ward and Alice Quinn, festivities included an Original Trilogy Trivia Game Show, a costume contest, and the web’s best tribute films, mash-ups, parodies, and remixes on the big screen. May 4th was chosen because of the play on words.

CINCO DE MAYO TUESDAY

Cinco De Mayo’s deeply rooted history in the Franco-Mexican War influenced Mexican-Mexican American communities in the early years of the American Civil War. In the early 1860s, as the Civil War erupted, these communities took up the banner of the Cinco De Mayo celebration as a way to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy. Today, in the United States, Americans celebrate Mexican-American heritage and pride annually on May 5th.

Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May.”

On June 7, 2005, the United States Congress issued a Concurrent Resolution. The resolution invited the President of the United States to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe Cinco de Mayo with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

According to José Alamillo, professor of ethnic studies at Washington State University in Pullman, a 2006 study found more than 150 official events celebrating the day.

Celebrations surrounding the observance in the United States take on a significance beyond that in Mexico. They include displaying of banners and events highlighting Mexican culture, music, and regional dancing. School districts also hold special events to educate students about its historical significance. In the U.S., commercial interests the day by celebrating Mexican products and services with an emphasis on beverages, food, and music.

HOW TO OBSERVE #CincodeMayo

Celebrate Mexican heritage, culture, and history. Explore foods and traditions, music, and cinema. Immerse yourself in the language and discover new connections. Uncover long lost history and share your treasures. Share your Mexican heritage and use #CincodeMayo to post on social media.

CINCO DE MAYO HISTORY

In 1861, the Battle of Puebla pitched 6,000 French troops against a small, under-supplied Mexican force of 2,000 men. Not expecting to win the campaign, the Mexican army overcame the French in under a day. While the battle didn’t win the war, the victory held great symbolism for Mexico during the Franco-Mexican War and buoyed the army throughout the conflict. Each year, Mexico commemorates the day with celebrations across the country, though it is not a federal holiday.

NATIONAL NURSES WEDNESDAY

National Nurses Day is observed annually on May 6. On this day, we raise awareness of all nurse contributions and commitments and acknowledge the vital role nurses play in society. This day is also the first day of National Nurses Week and is sometimes known as National RN Recognition Day.

National Nurses Week begins May 6 and ends on May 12, which is the birthday of Florence Nightingale (May 12, 1820 – August 13, 1910). Florence Nightingale was a celebrated English, social reformer, statistician, and the founder of modern nursing. She became well-known while taking care of the wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. Nightingale was dubbed “The Lady with the Lamp” because of her habit of making rounds at night.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNursesDay

Recognize nurses everywhere. Celebrate their dedication and commitment to their patients and their profession. Tell someone about the excellent care you’ve received from a nurse.

When you visit the doctor or have surgery, follow the instructions they give you, especially follow up care. Ask questions, so they know when you need more information. They can’t read your minds.

Give nurses you know a shout out and thank them for their hard work, especially during these challenging times.

Use #NationalNursesDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL NURSES DAY HISTORY

In 1953, Dorothy Sutherland, an employee at the United States Department of Health, sent a letter to President Eisenhower proposing a National Nurses Day. An official proclamation was not made. The following year people began celebrating National Nurses Week on their own.

In 1974, President Nixon proclaimed a National Nurse Week. New Mexico nurses initiated a resolution in 1981 to have May 6th declared National Recognition Day for Nurses. The American Nurses Association (ANA) Board of Directors took up the banner and promoted the proposal. In 1982, the United States Congress designated May 6th to be National Recognition Day for Nurses and President Ronald Reagan signed the proposal. The ANA Board of Directors later expanded the celebration in 1990 to a week-long celebration (May 6-12) known as National Nurses Week.

TEACHER APPRECIATION FRIDAY

National Teacher Appreciation Week in May honors those men and women who have dedicated their lives to educating the masses.

The entire week focuses on those amazing and inspiring people who see the talent and skills in even the meekest of us. Teachers manage to zero in on the one ability that will help us focus and master a topic, or at least get through it. They turn Greek into…well…Greek! Chemistry is magical and algebra is something you might actually use. These are the reasons we appreciate our teachers.

Public and private school teachers provide students with the tools and resources they will build upon for the rest of their lives. Not only do they educate, but they also serve as mentors and guide our youth, too.

HOW TO OBSERVE #TeacherAppreciationWeek

Visit www.pta.org for ways to thank a teacher. From Amazing to Zealous and every adjective in between, use all your adjectives to describe how terrific your teachers are. Support teachers by volunteering in the classrooms. Ask teachers in your area what their most important needs are. Send a shout out to a fantastic teacher, past or present using #TeacherAppreciationWeek on social media.

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK HISTORY

The National PTA founded Teacher Appreciation Week in 1984.

NATIONAL BUTTERSCOTCH BROWNIE SATURDAY

National Butterscotch Brownie Day is observed annually on May 9. Butterscotch Brownies are also known as Blondies or Brookie (brownie + cookie). Blonde brownies were actually created before the chocolate brownies. Butterscotch brownies are made up of flour, brown sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder and vanilla. Walnuts, pecans or butterscotch chips are sometimes added to the brownies.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Want to keep it simple? Enjoy this recipe from Taste of Home for Butterscotch Brownie Day and share with us using #ButterscotchBrownieDay. Don’t forget to serve your butterscotch brownie topped with ice cream and butterscotch or caramel sauce. YUM!!! Use #NationalButterscotchBrownieDay to share on social media.

HISTORY

Butterscotch Brownies are a deliciously sweet dessert bar that dates back to the 19th century. Sadly, we were unable to identify the founder of National Butterscotch Brownie Day.

At-Home Family Resources

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 15:42:59 GMT

Original post 04/06/2020 - Updated 04/14/2020, 04/24/2020

At-Home Resources for Families

PEI Community Resources

Parenting tips to manage COVID-19 social distancing guidelines: Cook Children’s has tons of resources for parenting during COVID-19. Check them out here .
Water Safety Daily LIVE Broadcasts: Colin’s Hope is providing live broadcasts on water safety and virtual activities to children and families in the home. The risk of drowning increases while kids are at home and parents are working because supervision may change or lapse during this time.
Additional Resources:

Six Ways to Manage Zoom : Find the right balance between, self-care and managing the exhaustion from virtual meetings .
New for Podcasts Listeners : Here are two great podcasts for your podcast list including the importance of long-term action steps with COVID-19 and community organizing to prevent violence .

The TEA has launched a webpage designed to provide at-home learning resources for parents, teachers and children - including students who receive special education services in school.

Colin’s Hope is providing live broadcasts on water safety and virtual activities to children and families in the home. The risk of drowning increases while kids are at home and parents are working because supervision may change or lapse during this time.

Parents can loosen up on screen time rules during COVID-19. The benefits of technology on children’s health, well-being, social and emotional outcomes and school achievement, depends less on time and more on the type of content they engage with when using a screen.

Additional Resources :

There are a whole host of gyms and fitness centers streaming live workouts for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a great list of options to help you get started .
Musicians are taking to social media to perform live concerts for their fans, which you can either live stream or watch recordings of. Billboard.com is regularly updating their list of these performances— check it out here .
Chef Massimo Bottura is hosting engaging cooking classes live on Instagram each day. Tune in to see what this world-class chef can teach you!

The Texas Workforce Commission encourages individuals previously deemed monetarily ineligible for unemployment benefits to reapply online starting Sunday, April 5, 2020. This date marks the beginning of a new quarter and as such the base period for unemployment benefits and those previously ineligible may now qualify.

The CDC has created a printable tip sheet for children coping in disasters.

Texas Youth Helpline is for all family members

The Texas Youth Helpline provides prevention services to youth, parents, siblings and other family members who are in need of a caring voice and sympathetic ear. Trained volunteers are on call to provide guidance on youth-related concerns, referral information or simply listen.

Employment affected by COVID-19

If your employment has been affected by the coronavirus, apply for benefits online at the Texas Workforce Commission or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at (800) 939-6631 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.

Article: That Discomfort You’re Feeling Is Grief

David Kessler, the world’s foremost expert on grief, shares his thoughts on why it’s important to acknowledge the grief you may be feeling during the COVID-19 outbreak, how to manage it, and how he believes we will find meaning in it.

Parenting Resources

Learning resource via YouTube by age, meant to augment existing learning and education
Got kids? Try these 11 quick tips for working from home while they’re with you.
5 tips for effectively working from home during the coronavirus outbreak, when you have kids.
Parenting During COVID-19: Rebecca Schrag Hershberg Ph.D. talks about her own family experiences as the mother of a 4- and 6-year old, and provides a bulleted list of concrete, actionable tips on how to navigate life at home as a family during quarantine. Parenting During COVID-19

Mealfinder Map

Texas parents can now visit the TXSchools.gov MealFinder Map to find locations near them where local school systems are offering free school meals—both breakfast and lunch—for pick-up while school buildings are closed because of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Once parents go to the site, they click “Meal Pick-Up Locations” to bring up a map of locations. Parents can type their address, and the map will zoom into meal pick-up locations that are up and running near them. Be sure to download this Waiver Letter that allows parents to pick up meals.

Bright by Text

Bright by Text is a nationwide text messaging service that helps parents and caregivers of children prenatal to age eight make the most of everyday interactions. Through free tips, information, games, and resources, Bright by Text is proven to build nurturing caregiver-child relationships, strengthen families, promote healthy child development, and improve school readiness. Parents will receive 3-5 text messages per week with parenting tips, developmental information, literacy information, and educational activities.

To sign up: Text “#Texaskids” to 274448 or Sign up online .

2-1-1 Texas , a program of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, is committed to helping Texas citizens connect with the services they need. Information available in English and Spanish.

A similar resource is AuntBertha.com . (Additional languages are available.) Aunt Bertha has added a zip code search to find food assistance, help in paying bills, and other free or reduced cost programs for the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit https://findhelp.org/ .

These are great resources to provide to your families that may need additional services.

The Texas Department of State Health Services Coronavirus Information Page : has many helpful resources throughout the entire website to help you in your response to COVID 19.

Resources for Kids at Home

Working from home with kids may feel unsustainable. Here’s some resources to ease the burden.

The Living Montessori YouTube channe l has videos about Montessori’s Exercises for Practical Life.

Go on a digital field trip to the National Gallery of Art, The Olympic Museum, the Palace of Versailles, national parks and much, much more by perusing the collections on Google Arts & Culture and Google Maps .

Additional Resources:

The Dallas World Aquarium , Monterey Bay Aquarium and the San Diego Zoo have live animal cams you can watch to see your favorite animals. Best of all, the cams are totally free to watch!
Need some ideas on how to keep your children engaged in learning while also entertained? Scholastic Learn at Home is offering free access to its projects for children grades Pre-K through 9.

CommonBytes COVID-19 Resource Page , which includes:

Lesson Plans
Videos
Games
Activities/Worksheets
Reading List
Join the Google Classroom for Small Bites Program
Sign up for weekly email updates for educators and parents
See updates from school districts and community partners on social media, including Twitter and Instagram feeds (see the “COVID-19 Help” Instastory Highlight)

Coronavirus: free printable comic for kids

Author and illustrator Elise Gravel created a comic to teach kids about the COVID-19 situation. You can download and print it for educational purposes. No commercial use is allowed.

COVID Time Capsule

Natalie Long is a graphic designer and mom from Canada. She created " My 2020 COVID-19 Time Capsule " worksheets as a way for her now eight-year-old daughter, Olivia to keep track of what is happening day-to-day. Long shared the worksheets on her Facebook page, making them available to the public. The 11-page document consists of various activities like interviewing parents, listing favorite foods and writing a letter to themselves.

Additional Resources:

More than 30 Virtual Field Trips
A guide for fun inside series: Week 1 , Week 2 , Week 3 , Week 4
Writing Prompts for elementary school students
14 Easy Recipes for cooking with kids
10 Favorite Art Activities for Kids in quarantine

Minecraft Marketplace Offering New Programs for Kids

Twelve free educational programs are launching through the Minecraft Marketplace . Topics include:

A NASA-approved, student-built project that invites students to tour the International Space Station, complete with experiments
Exploring the human eye
Logic puzzle games to teach students how to code and think like programmers
A tour of D.C.'s most historical sites, including the Lincoln Memorial, the White House and the Pentagon
A tower game that teaches students about power generation from different sources like wind and nuclear

Books and E-Books about COVID-19 for Children

KQED has compiled a list of age-appropriate books, videos and lesson plans that teachers and parents can use to help young people understand COVID-19 and its effects. Visit KQED to learn more.

Aspen Academy

Aspen Academy is offering a compilation of family-friendly virtual tours, stories, music, exercise, story times, and other activities. Visit them online .

First Pathways is offering instructional videos of age-appropriate activities that require only simple household items and can be played almost anywhere.

Mindheart.com is offering an online download of COVIBOOK: supporting and reassuring children around the world - the book is an invitation for families to discuss the full range of emotions arising from the current situation.

Other Resources

75+ Entertaining and Educational Activities for when you’re stuck indoors
Sesame Workshop PSA on handwashing featuring Elmo and Cookie Monster

Additional Resources

Coronavirus Information for Child Welfare Professionals: General health information from Child Welfare League of America
Utilizing Telehealth during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Telehealth resources to support home visiting services to families
Be Strong Families Website: Resources to stay strong and positive based on each of the protective factors .
Webinar: How to Craft Messages Parents will Read: Ready4K is here to help you activate parents in at-home learning.

#VirtualBGCWC - April 27 - May 1, 2020

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful tips to help you throughout the week:

Monday April 27 - National Babe Ruth Day

On April 27, baseball fans around the country honor one of baseball’s all-time greatest players. It’s National Babe Ruth Day.

HISTORY: George Herman “Babe” Ruth, Jr., born on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland was nicknamed “the Bambino” and “the Sultan of Swat.” Spending 22 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), he played for three teams from 1914 to 1935.

Babe Ruth’s baseball career started as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. He became a full-time right-fielder when the New York Yankees bought his contract in 1919. Being one of the league’s most prolific hitters, he helped the Yankees win seven pennants and four World Series titles.

Ruth set career records, in his time, for home runs, slugging percentage, runs batted in, and on-base plus slugging. In 1927, he was the very first player to hit 60 home runs in one season.

Following a short stint with the Boston Braves, Ruth retired in 1935. In 1936, he became one of the first five players to be elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

In 1946, after experiencing severe eye pain and difficulty swallowing, Babe Ruth was diagnosed with cancer. On April 27, 1947, he was able to attend the proclaimed Babe Ruth Day and spoke briefly to a crowd of almost 60,000 people at Yankee Stadium.

At the age of 53, on August 16, 1948, at 8:01 pm, Babe Ruth died in his sleep.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Play a game of catch in the backyard. Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks to enjoy!

Tuesday April 28 - NATIONAL SUPERHERO DAY

National Superhero Day is observed annually on April 28. This is a day to honor superheroes, both real and fictional.

Batman, Superman, Captain America, Wonder Woman, Iron Man, Hulk and Spiderman are just some of the superheroes whose names we recognize. Even though they are fictional, these superheroes are great role models for our children. They serve and protect while fighting evil.

Our real-life superheroes may not have super-powers or wear capes, but they are also great role models who serve and protect while fighting evil. Military personnel, police officers and firefighters are just a few of the heroes who protect us on a daily basis.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Send us a photo of your favorite superhero. If it’s someone real-life have lunch with them and say thank you for all they do.

Wednesday, April 29 - NATIONAL OATMEAL COOKIE DAY

National Oatmeal Cookie Day is observed each year on April 30. This day is also often recognized on March 18 in conjunction with National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day. Oatmeal cookies have been around since the 1800s. The cookies quickly became popular, and by early the 1900s a recipe for the delicious treats appeared on containers of Quaker Oats. Oatmeal cookies are also considered a health food because they are an excellent source of iron and fiber. Just another reason to have an oatmeal cookie today!

HOW TO OBSERVE

Give this recipe a try: Soft Oatmeal Cookie recipe .

Share a picture making the delicious cookies or you enjoying the heart-healthy soft oatmeal cookie!

Thursday April 30 - NATIONAL BUGS BUNNY DAY

National Bugs Bunny Day is observed each year on April 30. Bugs Bunny is the famous cartoon character best remembered for his roles in Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies produced by Warner Bros. He is known for his popular catchphrase “What’s up, doc?” Bugs Bunny first appeared in a short film on April 30, 1938 and has since been enjoyed by millions of viewers.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Celebrate National Bugs Bunny Day by hosting a Bugs Bunny cartoon marathon party. Send us a video of you wishing Bugs Bunny Happy Birthday.

Friday, May 1 - SCHOOL PRINCIPALS’ DAY

On May 1, remember to take the time to thank the educational leaders of the school on School Principals’ Day.

Throughout the school year, these educators assume the commitment to lead our young people to a prosperous future. They support and guide quality teachers and staff resulting in productive learning environments for our children.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Make a thank card letting them know you appreciate all their time and patience with the kids and parents and mail to your Principal. Share your special card with us.

Saturday, May 2 - National Kentucky Derby Day

HISTORY: The Kentucky Derby is a tradition that takes place on the first Saturday in May. Its long and storied history brings out a taste for mint juleps , colorful sun hats and a thrill for the race. The jockeys and horses will prepare for the day at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The first in the Triple Crown series, The Kentucky Derby will be followed The Preakness Stakes and The Belmont Stakes. While both The Preakness and The Belmont are the older races, The Kentucky Derby has run continuously since its inception in 1875.

The beautiful horses and the bustling crowds under the spring sunshine make for an exciting day of racing.

HOW TO OBSERVE

The Kentucky Derby is broadcast live, so anyone can enjoy the thrill of the race. Tune in and pick your horse and cheer for place, show or win! Share with us which horse you picked to win before the race starts.

STEM Activities

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 22:09:16 GMT

Simple STEM Activities

Shadow Tracking

Learn all about the movement of the earth by tracking shadows throughout the day. Have your children stand in the same spot at various times and mark with chalk on the sidewalk how "tall" their shadow is at each hour. Discuss why our shadows shrink and grow and what that teaches us about the movement of the earth.

Earthquake Test

Experiment with foundations by testing various structures on top of different outdoor surfaces (sand, dirt, mud, concrete, water). Challenge them to create a bridge or building using materials you provide (popsicle sticks, toothpicks, Legos or anything find nearby), and let them work to figure out how to make it steady. Have a competition to see which structure holds the most weight or withstands an “earthquake.”

#VirtualBGCWC - April 20 - April 25, 2020

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 21:34:36 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful tips to help you throughout the week:

Monday - Moves Monday

Share a video of you dancing.
Dance Lessons for Kids, Tweens n Teens - Dance Lesson Videos - https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL70282BCC6AFF32ED

Tuesday - Thoughtful Tuesday

Shout out or take a picture of you and your note addressed to the Dr. and nurses who are working hard at this time.

Wednesday - Wellness Wednesday - Earth Day

Share a picture of your favorite flower, plant or tree.
34 Earth Day Crafts With Recycled Materials - WeAreTeachers - https://www.weareteachers.com/earth-day-crafts-classroom-activities

Thursday - Thunderstorm Safety

Thunderstorm Safety Tips - https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/thunderstorms.html?WT.ac=ctg#catthought

Friday - Fishing Fun

Share a picture of your favorite fish.
How to Fish Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9MiycDAxTA

Saturday - Special Skill

Post a video or take a picture of your own special skill.
Smarter Study Skills - https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/studying.html?WT.ac=ctg#catschool

#VirtualBGCWC - April 13 - April 18, 2020

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 13:45:42 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful links to help you throughout the week:

Monday- HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalThomasJeffersonDay

Learn more about Thomas Jefferson. Read one of his many books or books written about him. We’ve selected a few for you to choose from.

Autobiography of Thomas Jefferson by Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power by Jon Meacham
Friends Divided: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson by Gordon S. Wood
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Jefferson

Tuesday - LOOK UP AT THE SKY DAY

On April 14, Look Up At The Sky Day encourages us to admire the beauty above us. On this day we all hope for good weather and an opportunity to fill our eyes with the sky from horizon to horizon. There are many things that you can see as you sit back, relax and look up. The sky’s beautiful blue color, the clouds, and their many shapes. Perhaps the sun (maybe peeking through the clouds), and many different birds flying around captures our attention. At night, the skies many stars, the moon, and even the clouds drifting across the sky.
HOW TO OBSERVE #LookUpAtTheSkyDay - Spend time watching the clouds. Note the different shapes and how they move. At night, investigate the stars. Search the heavens for constellations, planets and the Milkyway. Watch for a meteor shower or a single falling star. Over the horizon, an aurora borealis might begin to dance bringing on a beautiful show.

Wednesday - WELLNESS - HYDRATION

5 Hydration Tips for Active Kids | ACTIVEkids - www.activekids.com/parenting-and-family/articles/5-hydration-tips-for-active-kids

Thursday - BIRD WATCHING DAY

Friday - PLAY SIMON SAYS GAME

https://www.considerable.com/entertainment/games/simon-says/

Saturday - MAKE COLORED SALT DOUGH

#VirtualBGCWC - April 6 - April 11, 2020

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:32:54 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful links to help you throughout the week:

Monday- Pets Day

How to Take Care of Your Pet (with Pictures) - www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Your-Pet

Tuesday - Don’t Be Bored Day

Wednesday

Wellness Walking Day encourages Americans of all ages to get out and stretch their legs and get their hearts pumping. The American Heart Association sponsors this day to remind people about the health benefits of taking a walk. Wear your sneakers and take a 30-minute walk.

Here are some great ways to make that 30-minutes more enjoyable:

Wear comfortable clothes.
Take a friend to pass the time.
Make sure to stretch those muscles.
Drink plenty of water.
Move your arms, too.
Make sure you have good posture.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalWalkingDay

Take thirty minutes out of your day to go for a walk. Find a trail near you or walk around your neighborhood. You can also visit a local park or walk on your treadmill. Take your canine pals with you, too. They need the cardiovascular workout, too!

Thursday

Write a letter to your Grandparents (attach document on how to write a letter for kids)

Saturday - How to make a Sock Puppet - Easy DIY Hand Puppet

www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-make-a-sock-puppe/

#VirtualBGCWC - March 30 - April 3, 2020

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 18:06:58 GMT

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Here are some useful links to help you throughout the week:

Tuesday - Make us Laugh Day

https://www.care.com/c/stories/3776/101-funny-jokes-for-kids/

Wednesday - W ellness – Healthy Habits: make a healthy snack and share

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-snacks-for-kids

Thursday - Tic-Tac-Toe Day

Friday - Science Experiment Day

How to make homemade bubbles for kids so you have a never-ending supply of bubble solution. This homemade bubbles recipe is the easiest ever and doesn't use glycerine (although you can add it if you like). To learn more, see the blog post on The Artful Parent with the homemade bubble recipe, lots of photos, and extra resources :

Saturday - Craft Day

WELCOME to #VirtualBGCWC

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 16:52:16 GMT

Fun for March 23-28

Check with us every week for fun activities to do from home.

Post daily on our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/walkercountykids ) or comment here and show us how you're doing.

Remember safety first when going online.

Below you'll also find links to entertaining online games and more for all age groups.

FREE Word Search all ages - https://www.free-word-search.com/
FREE Crazy Games all ages - https://www.crazygames.com/
FREE Online Jigsaw Puzzles - https://www.thejigsawpuzzles.com/
FREE Hidden Objects Game - https://www.hiddenobjectgames.com/
FREE Online Picture Drawing & Painting - https://kidssearch.com/KidsPaint.html
Teens-Girls - https://pbskids.org/scigirls/
Kinder &1st - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdtJyKyZB4k
Math for K and 1st - https://youtu.be/8cR_1Qi-tP4
English Learners - https://www.colorincolorado.org/families

NetSmartz : links below to access games, activity sheets, videos and more.

For younger members 8-10 yoa
- Visit, https://www.netsmartzkids.org/
- There is also a 6-episode season with discussion and some activity sheets. Attaching samples above.
For older members 11 yoa+
- Visit, https://www.nsteens.org TEENS
- Site will include: Games, Quizzes, Videos
For Parents or Educators
- Visit - https://www.nsteens.org/Educators
- NSTEENS- will have resources that educators can utilize to teach older members tween and up.

Instructions for Saturday's National Something on a Stick Day and Pencil Day Pinwheel

Supply List:

1 6 x 6-inch colorful sheet of paper per student
1 pencil with eraser per student
1 push pin per student
crayons / ruler
scissors / tape

Directions:

Decorate the paper with the artwork of your choice. On one side, draw a straight line diagonally from one corner to the other. (Figure 1)
Draw another diagonal line to create an X and find the center point.
Measure two inches along each line going away from the center point and make a mark.

4. With your scissors, cut from each corner point along the line to the two-inch mark and stop.(Figure 2)
5. Fold every other corner toward the center, securing each section with tape if necessary.
6. Poke a hole through the center section of the pinwheel and then into the eraser of the pencil.