JULY 2026

MENU/CALENDAR

Greetings!


June was truly a wonderful month at Especially for Children!

 

Our classrooms were filled with laughter, learning, and so many memorable moments as we explored new experiences through the Creative Curriculum while enjoying the beautiful summer weather. From exciting water days and celebrating Father's Day with our Ice Cream Truck to dressing up for our colorful Rainbow Day, it was a month full of fun, creativity, and meaningful connections.

 

July will be no exception! We have even more exciting adventures planned, including additional water days, celebrating Independence Day, a fun Hawaiian day, music classes with Kyle, and many other engaging activities throughout the month. We can't wait to continue creating special memories together while learning, exploring, and having fun every step of the way.

 

Thank you for being such an important part of our EFC community. We look forward to celebrating another amazing month with all our wonderful children and families!

CENTER HAPPENINGS

7/1 WATERMELON DAY 🍉

We'll celebrate summer by enjoying a delicious watermelon treat and fun themed activities!

 

7/2 INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

We'll celebrate with patriotic crafts, music, and red, white, & blue fun!

 

7/3 CENTER CLOSED FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

 

7/7 HAWAIIAN DAY 🌺

We’ll celebrate a tropical adventure filled with island-themed activities, music, and lots of fun!

 

7/15 WATER DAY 💦

Get ready for a day full of splashing, water games, and outdoor summer fun!

 

7/20 FAVORITE HAT DAY🧢

Wear your favorite hat to school and show off your unique style!

 

7/27 SUNGLASSES DAY 😎

Don't forget your favorite sunglasses as we enjoy a bright and sunny day together!

 

7/30 SUPERHERO DAY ⭐

Dress up as your favorite superhero and get ready to save the day through imaginative play and exciting activities!


Tuesdays – Dance Class with Let’s Dance *Parent registration required for this class

Wednesday – Soccer Shots *Parent registration required for this class


FAMILY REMINDERS

Our center is closed on Friday, July 3, for Independence Day! We hope you all have a fun and safe weekend!


If you have a vacation planned this summer, please let us know about the days you will be gone, if you haven’t already!


For our children’s safety, we kindly ask that you avoid sending them to school wearing Crocs or flipflops. We recommend closed-toe, comfortable shoes that provide better support for running, climbing, and all the fun activities throughout the day. Thank you so much for helping us keep everyone safe! 💙

 

FAMILY RESOURCES

AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

In 2026, the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This milestone, often called the Semiquincentennial, is an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history, recognize the many people and cultures that have helped shape America, and celebrate the values of freedom, opportunity, and community.

 

At Especially for Children, we will explore this historic anniversary through age-appropriate activities that introduce children to patriotic symbols, American traditions, and the importance of working together as a community. As we celebrate this special occasion, we encourage families to share stories, traditions, and experiences that help make our country a diverse and vibrant place to call home.

 

For more ways to teach your children about America’s rich history, here are a few stories you can read at home:

 

My America By: Karen Katz

My America is a picture book celebration of immigration to the United States told through the experiences of children who have come from around the world. Children come to live in America from many different countries, and for many different reasons . . . In this beautiful celebration of immigration, children from around the world tell their stories, sharing their love of where they're from and where they live now--homes old and new. As they describe the foods they eat, the languages they've learned, the sports they play, and more, the differences and similarities that link us all are revealed.

 

ABC’s of American By: J. D. Forester

An alphabetical introduction to the United States for the youngest of readers, just in time to celebrate America's 250th anniversary! A is for America, the land of the free. B is for bald eagle, the country's national bird. C is for cowboy boots , worn out on the ranch. In this celebration of the United States, there's a classic American symbol for each letter of the alphabet. Featuring bold, dynamic art that promotes engagement for curious minds, this educational and patriotic book highlights American culture, history, and more for little ones.

 

America is 250!: A 4th of July Storybook for Kids Celebrating Independence Day, Freedom, American History and Birthday By: Bibi Squish

Written for early readers ages 4 to 7, this warm and patriotic storybook takes children on a journey through American history - from the Founding Fathers who signed the Declaration of Independence, to the parades and fireworks of today's Independence Day celebrations. With simple, read-aloud language and vivid storytelling, every page builds a sense of pride, wonder, and love for this great country.


The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is thrilled to bring back Red, White & BOOM!


The city’s largest and most beloved Fourth of July event. With over 50,000 attendees and a full day of activities on the Mississippi Riverfront, this year’s celebration runs from 8 am-10 pm, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show at 10 pm.


Event Details

• Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026• Location: Water Works Park and along West River Parkway

• Time: 8 am – 10 pm

www.minneapolisparks.org/activities-events/events/red_white_and_boom/

STAR WELLNESS

TWIN CITIES

FAMILY EVENTS

Now-9/7 Llama Trek, MN Zoo

Now-8/2 Shrek the Musical, Stages Theatre, Hopkins

July Dates Music and Children's Story Time, 50th&France, Edina

7/2-7/4 Eagan's Funfest, Children’s Theatre, Mpls

7/3 Sparklefest, Round Lake Park, Eden Prairie

7/4 4th of July Parade, 50th&France, Edina

7/9-7/12 Whiz Bang Days, Minneapolis

7/19 Grande Day Parade, Main Street, Hopkins

7/18-7/26 Minneapolis Aquatennial, Downtown Minneapolis

All Summer - Music and Movies in the Park - Various Minneapolis Parks



Find more local family events

Especially for Children - SW Minneapolis

3908 Stevens Ave.         

Minneapolis, MN 55409

(612) 588-9700

swminneapolis@cadence-academy.com

Center Directors

Ronan Hernandez-Pratt & Kathy Hane