July 25th-29th Family Activities Newsletter

Welcome to the WMHT Family Activities Newsletter.
This weekly family newsletter is providing resources for children’s growing and learning throughout the summer and fall months.
The theme for this week is The Solar System.
I hope you find this helpful!
Barbara Lukas, Family Learning Coordinator
Theme: The Solar System
Welcome to family activities with PBS Kids!  The Solar System is the planets and other things in space that orbit (go around) our sun. This includes planets, asteroids and comets. Explore some solar activities below.  
Two age level areas are available – PreK-K and Grades 1-2. 
PreK-K
Saturn’s rings are made up of dust, ice, rocks and more. Create 3D art to learn more about Saturn's rings. Print the diagram of the rings, then collect a variety of craft supplies to create your 3D picture. Cut up a large cardboard box to make the base, and use Elmer-type liquid glue to attach the ring materials. Did you invite a friend to make one with you?
       Salt Painting the Solar System
The sun is the center of the Earth’s solar system, giving light to the planets as they orbit around it. Study the solar system printable and discuss the location of all the planets. For this solar system project use large poster board or cardboard, and Elmer-type glue. You will need a large amount of table salt, and some food coloring to finish the design. Tip the picture carefully as you let the loose salt fall off! 
Grades 1-2
Have a blast with this DIY rocket! Construct a rocket out of recycled items and household materials, then count down to your very own liftoff and fly around! You will need a cardboard cylinder container [like oatmeal], additional cardboard, tin foil, glue, and a few clothespins. Make sure to form the cardboard cone to fit the top of the cylinder, and use lots of tape to attach it. Now where will you fly in the solar system?
    Our Solar System: The Planets
Watch this video from Alabama Public Television and learn about the planets in our Solar System. The video follows the history of the exploration of the planets from the use of telescopes to robotic spacecraft. Perhaps visit your local library to find books with additional information on our solar system. 


Stargazing and Other Astronomy Activities
Space is a fascinating and sometimes confusing topic for kids. Ready Jet Go! helps take the complexity of space and explain it in language kids can understand. If you want to take their curiosity further, here are a few simple ways parents and kids can explore the wonders of astronomy together. Activities range from toddler-aged thru elementary student.

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