A little break from our summer activity to bring you list of things to do this summer, that wont break the bank, and if you are handy they will actually be FREE. If you are keeping up with our summer you know I am all about keeping the kids from being bored, but also about enhancing their education in the process and bringing them back to nature. (update on Wild West Week tomorrow).... so here goes (if its blue its a link for more information)
1. Library-check out books that have IDEAS - give reason for further hands on study (activity). Reserve books through your online service at your local library that have items of interest for your childs age group, how to make paper airplanes, science experiments, craft projects, etc. even as we are learning about different artists we are practicing our learning by completing art projects...get creative with the books you can get...
2. Library-STORY TIME - something about a different setting breaks up the routine for the kids, gives them something to look forward to.
3. Local Park - go early, pack a lunch, bring a drawing tablet, enjoy the outside before its too hot.
4. Take a field trip.
5. Visit a fire department.
6. Play in the water - but aside from the everyday play in the sprinkler, kiddie pool - make games with the water - use the water with paint brushes and paint the fence (it dries clear, lol)...put coloring in the water and stretch paper across a fence - fill water guns with this colored water and then they are really painting with water colors.
7. Build a fort, go to nearby woods, gather sticks, broken branches, etc. build a fort, or house this will provide days worth of enjoyment both in the gathering/building/playing inside.
8. Take a nature walk.. take along a journal, let the kids bring cameras, then go home, identify everything your photographed, create a nature book. Thats a whole nother days activities (paper, photos, glue, scissors, notebook) this is especially good saved for a rainy day.
9. Take an "Alphabet tour"... again camera(s) in hand, journals - letter guides for younger kids - drive to town/city - begin with the letter a (Apple street) b (building) c (colosseum) d(dairy queen) e(eatery) you get the drift - when you are done - each child has a personal and creative alphabet memory book.
10. Check out kids free days at your museums.
11. Make homeade ice cream (if you dont keep heavy cream on hand you will have to buy it, but hey its still pretty cheap entertainment/enjoyment). Make popcicles, smoothies, ice cream sundaes.
12. Go on a scavengar hunt
13. Host a neighborhood carnival (we're talking bean bag toss, use the water gun to shoot the ducky, egg on the spoon, those kind of games) - each neighbor hosts a game/activity and gives out a snack/drink - makes for a very fun day..
14. Go to an outdoor concert (most towns/cities have a website where you can see what/when and which ones are free.)
15. Check your movie theatre for free summer movies (usually morning showings)
16. Go to the beach.
17. Check out your local hardware store - they offer free kids club building projects.
18. Cook with your kids (my kids are still loving to cook the evening meals with me) but let them plan it, be apart of the shopping, table setting - make dessert!)
19. Host a cooking party - invite some friends (your kids arent the only ones home and wanting something to do) - have each mom bring a few ingredients and spend the day making cookies, treats, etc. (maybe you know someone who could use some extra love and attention - make a whole meal with these friends, let the kids make cards, and go make someones day brighter and happier).
20. Teach the kids frisbee golf.
21. Go fly a kite (why not make them first).
22. Do a sewing project together. Make a picnic or story time blanket, apron, or summer dress.
23. Make sock puppets - put on a puppet shows.
24. Go outside for reading time.
25. Make and blow bubbles.
26. Hide all the army men, mini animals, etc. in the sand pit - have a excavation. (even read a book about archeologists before hand).
27. Play dress up.
28. Have a tea party.
29. Make an obstacle course out of your back yard and have races.
30. Play jacks.
31. Go fishing.
32. Go on a bike ride.
33. Camp in your back yard.
34. Melt and create with crayons.
35. Visit a local state park.
36. Go bowling (a lot of the alleys offer students 2 free games over the summer).
37. Plant a garden using seeds from your vegetables/fruits.
38. Tour local historic sites.
39. Make a star gazing map.
40. Teach the kids to knit.
41. Check with a local farm - offer to help feed the animals.
42. Set up a lemonade stand.
43. Set up hotwheels races in the driveway. (my guys love this - they always want to see which of their 100's of cars is awarded 'the fastest" - have them make a trophy to give to the winning car - then next time - the new winning car gets the trophy.
44. Have a LEGO building contest (using x# pieces, only using blue pieces, creating something a certain height, create something that moves, etc.)
45. Make a doll.
46. Hunt for animal tracks. (get a book from the library to help identify them).
47. Have a dress up party (doesnt have to be halloween to wear those costumes).
48. Learn bird calls.
49. Use magazines to make mosaics.
50. Check your craft stores for make and take craft projects (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, etc.).
51. Tour a factory.
52. Make musical instruments and become a 'home band' sensation! (think - pie pan tamborine, papertowl holder rain stick, string and cereal box guitar) - dont forget to dress the part!
53. Make tye die shirts. (play some groovy tunes, too)
54. Take a picnic to dad/mom/grandma/ etc... give them a nice break from their work day.
55. Make a tent in the living room.
56. Go to an Arboretum.
57. Make a bird feeder with pine cones & peanut butter (and bird seed of course).
58. Paint with fruit and veggies (and anything else you will let them paint with - think q-tips, old toothbrush, sponges, leaves.... etc.)
59. Play charades.
60. Have a "BORED" game day - pull out all those dusty games and let each child pick a game - if its nice outside - take em out on your picnic blanket.
61. Walk your neighbors dog.
62. Blow up Diet coke with mentos.
63. Make sillouettes.
64. Check out local VBS offerings - a lot of time you can volunteer while your kids attend.
65. Learn/Go Orienteering.
66. Make a compass. (ties in to 65)
67. Gather friends and have a "clean" the park day - celebrate your good deed with a picnic and play time.
68. Sculpt with homeade SALT CLAY.
69. Collect Seashells. (then sort by color/size. etc. - make a seashell necklace or use the shells to decorate an empty jar - adults should use the glue gun).
70. Play "I Spy" as you walk around your neighborhood.
71. Go to a farmers market.
72. Check with a local pizzaria to see if you can come in for a tour (they will probably want you to buy a pizza - so it may not be "free" - but fun!)
73. Check your newpaper for local summer festivals.
74. Make school related activities fun - create your own matching cards (I make mine using these cute digital supplies found here and here). Use maccaroni for math reinforcement, make a clock with a paper plate, help with geometry by giving building tasks, etc.)
75. Learn (play) street games.
76. Make Taffy.
77. Make a checker board and your own checkers. then play for a bit...
78. Make your own board games.
79. Make a Milk Carton Boat - and head to a pond.
80. Have a Christmas in July party and ask all the guests to bring donations for your local food pantry.
81. Participate in a free activity at Bass Pro Shop.
82. Have a major league team in your area - call about free kids tickets this summer.
83. Take a trip to tour your state capitol, local courthouse, etc.
84. Gather, paint, make pet rocks.
85. Plan a theme week (keep checking back here for more details about our themes this summer).
86. Volunteer at a local charity/Habitat for Humanity.
87. Have a pajama day, enjoy movies and popcorn (great for a rainy day).
88. Color.
89. Make a Windchime.
90. Write your own poems.
91. Do a toy swap (pack up those forgotten toys and swap with a friend - kids love new "to them" toys as much as they love :NEW: toys.
92. "Play" school.
93. Make paper dolls for boys, for girls, or for the more advanced.
94. Travel around the world. Have English scones for breakfast, Chinese Stir Fry for lunch, Italian for dinner. Make a craft to go with each country, get a library book with photos of these places. (maybe even see if you have a friend your child can become pen pals with.)
95. Have a switcher-oo day, you send your kids to someone elses house and their kids come to yours... kids LOVE this... just plan a few activities (you can choose from some on this list) and give them a great day as your friend will do with your kidos.
96. Play tennis, soccer, kickball, football, etc.
97. Make slime.
98. Make glowing fireflies. we get our glowsticks at Target's $1.00 bins and they come with 10, so its practically free.
99. Make a sandcastle. If you dont have a sand box, gather up all sorts of containers and some water jugs and head over to your local park - spend the day building a great sand castle together -lots of kids will want to get in on the action so its a great social time, too.
100. Enjoy an art lesson.
Most importantly remember the simplicity of childhood is found in the quality of the time spent together - enjoy each moment, create an environment of joy and excitement, learning and fun and I am certain this summer will be one we all remember for a very long time.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Spring Facts and Fun Facts
To Everything Turn, Turn, Turn...According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the seasons are caused by the Earth being tilted on its axis by an average of 23.5 degrees (Earth's tilt on its axis actually varies from near 22 degrees to 24.5 degrees).
As the Earth revolves around the Sun, the Sun is directly over the equator. The Sun's energy is in balance between the northern and southern hemispheres. During the spring equinox near March 21st, the Sun is once again directly over the equator.
A common misconception is that the Earth is farther from the sun in winter than in summer. Actually, the Earth is closest to the sun in December, which is winter in the Northern hemisphere.
Spring is the Air!
In the United States and the rest of the northern hemisphere, the first day of the spring season is the day of the year when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward (on March 20th or 21st). This day is known as the vernal equinox.
The vernal equinox marks the beginning of the astrological year when the sun enters the sign of Aries. Also known as Ostara, the pagan goddess of spring and fertility, the vernal equinox signifies new life emerging this time of year.
Spring Forward...
Beginning in 2007, most of the United States begins Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and reverts to standard time on the first Sunday in November. In the U.S., each time zone switches at a different time.
According to studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Daylight Saving Time saves energy. Results show that Daylight Saving Time trims the entire country's electricity usage by a small but significant amount (about one percent a day) because less electricity is used.
Why Wear a Watch?
One of the best ways to determine spring is by watching and tracking migratory animals, such as fish, bats, birds and butterflies that have an innate biological clock necessary for survival by means of eating, waking/sleeping, blooming, migrating, mating and more.
And What About Global Warming?According to the National Wildlife Federation, climate warming can instigate the early migration of animals, confusing the ecosystem and making food supply scarce. As species move, they may have to deal with different prey, predators and competitors as well as habitats that are less than ideal. It could take centuries for some plants to adapt to global warming.
Animals Commonly Associated With Spring...
Rabbit, gray whale, bald eagle, frog, hummingbird, robin, deer, fox, sea otter, bear, whooping crane, loon, manatee
Insects and Invertebrates Commonly Associated With Spring...
Honeybee, monarch butterfly, ladybug, earthworm
Plants/flowers Commonly Associated With Spring...
Azaleas, lilacs, tulips, dahlias, lilies, daffodils, hyacinths, primrose, maple
Songs About Spring...
In Led Zeppelin's "Rain Song," the first verse pays homage to the season of spring.
Van Morrison's "Celtic Spring" references spring throughout its chorus.
Legendary jazz vocalist Billie Holiday chants about love in the song "Some Other Spring."
Frank Sinatra is suddenly young and free in his song "Suddenly It's Spring."
Nina Simone has spring fever in "It Might as Well be Spring."
Tom Waits remembers everything that spring brings in "You Can Never Hold Back Spring."
Lead vocalist of Swedish band Flunk sings about his kiss in "Spring to Kingdom Come."
Folk songstress Dar Williams starts over on "Spring Street," where she's welcome any time.
Top U.S. Spring Break Getaways...
Beaches
Miami, Key West, South Padre Island, Myrtle Beach, Maui
Mountains/Skiing
Jackson Hole, Aspen, Lake Tahoe, Vail
Spring Break Family Trips
Washington DC, New York, Orlando, San Diego
What's Your Sign, Baby?
Aries [March 21 to April 19; meaning — ram; brightest star — Alpha Arietis; element — fire; ruling planet — Mars]
Under the tropical zodiac, Aries is associated with the vernal equinox. Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and associated with fresh vigor and new beginnings. Individuals born under this sign are thought to be confident, aggressive, energetic, active, adventurous, enthusiastic, fair and passionate.
Taurus [April 20 to May 21; meaning — bull; brightest star — Aldebaron; element — earth; ruling planet — Venus]
Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac and is associated with material pleasure. Individuals born under this sign are thought to be calm, patient, reliable, loyal, affectionate, sensuous, ambitious, and determined.
Gemini [May 22 to June 21; meaning — twins; brightest star — Pollux; element — air; ruling planet — Mercury]
Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac and associated with youth and versatility. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a sociable, fun-loving, versatile, lively, communicative, liberal, mentally active and friendly character.
This Time, Last Year(s)... March 21 (First Day of Spring) History
1556 Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer is burned at the stake.
1697 Czar Peter the Great begins tour through West Europe.
1804 French civil Code of Napoleon is adopted.
1851 Yosemite Valley is discovered in California.
1859 First Zoological Society incorporates in Philadelphia.
1935 Persia officially changed its name to Iran.
1962 A bear becomes the first creature to be ejected at supersonic speeds.
1963 Alcatraz, maximum security prison on the island in San Francisco Bay, closes after 29 years.
1979 Egyptian Parliament unanimously approve peace treaty with Israel.
1980 On the television show Dallas, J.R. Ewing is shot.
1984 Part of Central Park is named Strawberry Fields honoring John Lennon.
1985 Arthur Ashe is named to International Tennis Hall of Fame.
1990 Namibia becomes independent of South Africa, and Sam Nujoma becomes president.
1994 Wayne Gretzky ties Gordie Howe's NHL record of 801 goals.
First Day of Spring (March 21) Birthdays
1685 Johann Sebastian Bach, composer
1816 Charlotte Bronte, novelist and poet
1869 Florenz Ziegfield, American impresario
1958 Gary Oldman, actor
1962 Rosie O'Donell, actress, comedian and talk show host
1963 Matthew Broderick, American actor
1978 Kevin Federline, husband to Britney Spears
As the Earth revolves around the Sun, the Sun is directly over the equator. The Sun's energy is in balance between the northern and southern hemispheres. During the spring equinox near March 21st, the Sun is once again directly over the equator.
A common misconception is that the Earth is farther from the sun in winter than in summer. Actually, the Earth is closest to the sun in December, which is winter in the Northern hemisphere.
Spring is the Air!
In the United States and the rest of the northern hemisphere, the first day of the spring season is the day of the year when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward (on March 20th or 21st). This day is known as the vernal equinox.
The vernal equinox marks the beginning of the astrological year when the sun enters the sign of Aries. Also known as Ostara, the pagan goddess of spring and fertility, the vernal equinox signifies new life emerging this time of year.
Spring Forward...
Beginning in 2007, most of the United States begins Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and reverts to standard time on the first Sunday in November. In the U.S., each time zone switches at a different time.
According to studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Daylight Saving Time saves energy. Results show that Daylight Saving Time trims the entire country's electricity usage by a small but significant amount (about one percent a day) because less electricity is used.
Why Wear a Watch?
One of the best ways to determine spring is by watching and tracking migratory animals, such as fish, bats, birds and butterflies that have an innate biological clock necessary for survival by means of eating, waking/sleeping, blooming, migrating, mating and more.
And What About Global Warming?According to the National Wildlife Federation, climate warming can instigate the early migration of animals, confusing the ecosystem and making food supply scarce. As species move, they may have to deal with different prey, predators and competitors as well as habitats that are less than ideal. It could take centuries for some plants to adapt to global warming.
Animals Commonly Associated With Spring...
Rabbit, gray whale, bald eagle, frog, hummingbird, robin, deer, fox, sea otter, bear, whooping crane, loon, manatee
Insects and Invertebrates Commonly Associated With Spring...
Honeybee, monarch butterfly, ladybug, earthworm
Plants/flowers Commonly Associated With Spring...
Azaleas, lilacs, tulips, dahlias, lilies, daffodils, hyacinths, primrose, maple
Songs About Spring...
Top U.S. Spring Break Getaways...
Beaches
Miami, Key West, South Padre Island, Myrtle Beach, Maui
Mountains/Skiing
Jackson Hole, Aspen, Lake Tahoe, Vail
Spring Break Family Trips
Washington DC, New York, Orlando, San Diego
What's Your Sign, Baby?
Aries [March 21 to April 19; meaning — ram; brightest star — Alpha Arietis; element — fire; ruling planet — Mars]
Under the tropical zodiac, Aries is associated with the vernal equinox. Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and associated with fresh vigor and new beginnings. Individuals born under this sign are thought to be confident, aggressive, energetic, active, adventurous, enthusiastic, fair and passionate.
Taurus [April 20 to May 21; meaning — bull; brightest star — Aldebaron; element — earth; ruling planet — Venus]
Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac and is associated with material pleasure. Individuals born under this sign are thought to be calm, patient, reliable, loyal, affectionate, sensuous, ambitious, and determined.
Gemini [May 22 to June 21; meaning — twins; brightest star — Pollux; element — air; ruling planet — Mercury]
Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac and associated with youth and versatility. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a sociable, fun-loving, versatile, lively, communicative, liberal, mentally active and friendly character.
This Time, Last Year(s)... March 21 (First Day of Spring) History
1556 Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer is burned at the stake.
1697 Czar Peter the Great begins tour through West Europe.
1804 French civil Code of Napoleon is adopted.
1851 Yosemite Valley is discovered in California.
1859 First Zoological Society incorporates in Philadelphia.
1935 Persia officially changed its name to Iran.
1962 A bear becomes the first creature to be ejected at supersonic speeds.
1963 Alcatraz, maximum security prison on the island in San Francisco Bay, closes after 29 years.
1979 Egyptian Parliament unanimously approve peace treaty with Israel.
1980 On the television show Dallas, J.R. Ewing is shot.
1984 Part of Central Park is named Strawberry Fields honoring John Lennon.
1985 Arthur Ashe is named to International Tennis Hall of Fame.
1990 Namibia becomes independent of South Africa, and Sam Nujoma becomes president.
1994 Wayne Gretzky ties Gordie Howe's NHL record of 801 goals.
First Day of Spring (March 21) Birthdays
1685 Johann Sebastian Bach, composer
1816 Charlotte Bronte, novelist and poet
1869 Florenz Ziegfield, American impresario
1958 Gary Oldman, actor
1962 Rosie O'Donell, actress, comedian and talk show host
1963 Matthew Broderick, American actor
1978 Kevin Federline, husband to Britney Spears
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Peter Cottontail's Tips for Kids during Easter!
People with braces must avoid hard, sticky, chewy and sugary food in order to protect their teeth. Because they can't have traditional Easter candies such as jellybeans and marshmallow chicks, kids with braces may feel left out. You can help them feel included by filling their Easter baskets with braces-safe candy and other treats.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Welcome Todd Welsh, D.M.D.
Todd Welsh, D.M.D. graduated magna cum laude from the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Dental Medicine in 2000 and from University of Pennsylvania AEGD University of Pennsylvania Dental School , he received his B.S. from Dickinson College
Dr. Welsh has taught at the University of Pennsylvania School Of Dental Medicine
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Don't hibernate in the cold; Stay active!
When the winter weather hits, it’s easy to stay inside the warm house with the television on or sit on the computer. While that can be a great way to spend your after school hours, it’s also important to stay active over the winter months. Getting in some simple exercise during the winter season will help you to maintain energy and remain physically fit. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you need to remain indoors. Choosing the correct clothing will allow you to get outdoors & battle the cold.
THE KEY TO STAYING WARM OUTDOORS: LAYERS
"Heavy clothes are not recommended because they cause one to sweat too profusely," explains Dr. Charles Johnson, president of the National Medical Association.
Several layers of light clothing are best, and synthetic fibers are even better. When possible, choose synthetic fibers over natural fabrics such as cotton and wool. Synthetic fibers are better at pushing perspiration away from the skin, and damp clothes will cause the body to get cold 25 percent faster than dry clothes.
COVER THE HEAD AND PROTECT THE LUNGS
Most of the body's heat escapes through the head, so keeping the head covered is the best way to keep the entire body warm. A knit cap will do the trick, but remember that, just like with clothes, a synthetic material will keep the head dryer that cotton or wool.
Also, a ski mask that covers the mouth—but still provides easy air flow—will warm the frigid winter air and prevent the achiness that occurs when cold air gets into the lungs.
DON’T FORGET THE FEET
If you will be jogging, walking, or otherwise playing in wet or snowy conditions, be smart when selecting footwear. It is extremely important to wear water resistant footgear when walking or jogging in wet or snowy conditions.
BE AWARE OF THE DARK
Because it gets darker a lot earlier in winter, reflective clothing is a smart safety precaution as well.
THE KEY TO STAYING WARM OUTDOORS: LAYERS
"Heavy clothes are not recommended because they cause one to sweat too profusely," explains Dr. Charles Johnson, president of the National Medical Association.
Several layers of light clothing are best, and synthetic fibers are even better. When possible, choose synthetic fibers over natural fabrics such as cotton and wool. Synthetic fibers are better at pushing perspiration away from the skin, and damp clothes will cause the body to get cold 25 percent faster than dry clothes.
COVER THE HEAD AND PROTECT THE LUNGS
Most of the body's heat escapes through the head, so keeping the head covered is the best way to keep the entire body warm. A knit cap will do the trick, but remember that, just like with clothes, a synthetic material will keep the head dryer that cotton or wool.
Also, a ski mask that covers the mouth—but still provides easy air flow—will warm the frigid winter air and prevent the achiness that occurs when cold air gets into the lungs.
DON’T FORGET THE FEET
If you will be jogging, walking, or otherwise playing in wet or snowy conditions, be smart when selecting footwear. It is extremely important to wear water resistant footgear when walking or jogging in wet or snowy conditions.
BE AWARE OF THE DARK
Because it gets darker a lot earlier in winter, reflective clothing is a smart safety precaution as well.
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