Dec. 6th-10th Family Activities Newsletter

Welcome to week 73 of the WMHT Family Activities Newsletter.
This weekly family newsletter is providing resources for children’s growing and learning throughout the fall and winter months.
The theme for this week is Night Sky.
I hope you find this helpful!
Barbara Lukas, Family Learning Coordinator
Theme: Night Sky
Welcome to family activities with PBS Kids! Explore the night sky with activities and crafts below.  
Two age level areas are available – PreK-K and Grades 1-2. 
PreK-K
When you look into the night sky, do you wonder why stars twinkle instead of shine steady? A second question - do stars move at night or do they just look like they do because of the earth spinning? Find the answers to these questions from Dr. Anna Frebel, professor of astrophysics at MIT.   
       Ready Jet Go! Galaxy in a Jar
Our solar system, the sun, Earth, and seven other planets, is part of the Milky Way galaxy. Sometimes you can see a faint band of lights stretching through the night sky. That is the Milky Way. Create your own galaxy in a bottle with a few simple supplies. Collect a glass jar with lid, tempera paint, cotton balls, and different types of glitter. When finished, make sure to keep the lid on tight!  
Grades 1-2
Did you know that the Earth has its very own light show? In this clip from Ready Jet Go!, Jet and the gang try to find the fabled northern lights. The northern lights (or aurora borealis) are caused when solar particles from the sun collide with the magnetic fields on the North and South poles.

    Northern Lights   
The northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are the beautiful dancing waves of light in the nighttime sky. In nature they are caused by solar flares, but you can make your own with crayons, wax paper, heavy cardboard, and a cheese grater. Be careful not to grate your fingers! You will need adult help using the iron. Remember to set the iron on low heat! Hang your northern lights in the window. 

Experiences To Give this Holiday Season
With the holiday season in full swing, talk with your family about creating something special together. Fun family times can include decorating, baking, family excursions, and more. Here are a few ideas for experiences and non-store-bought gifts.
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