JULY 2026

MENU/CALENDAR

Greetings!


Summer is in full swing, and our classrooms are enjoying all the fun, learning, and adventures that come with the season. This month, we are excited to celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th anniversary—a special milestone honoring 250 years of our nation's history, growth, and community spirit. From patriotic art projects and music to water play and nature exploration, our children will enjoy a variety of engaging experiences that encourage creativity, curiosity, and fun. Be on the lookout for pictures, projects, and notes from your child’s teachers as they share what will unfold in EFC classrooms this month!

 

Thank you for being part of our Especially for Children family. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July!

CENTER HAPPENINGS

WATER PLAY DAYS

Please watch postings for upcoming water play days!


JULY SPECIAL DATES 


  • BIKE DAY THURSDAY JULY 2. Bring your bike & a helmet!
  • Mr Kyle will continue music classes every other Thursday!
  • The PreK class will go to the library alternating Thursdays.
  • MiniMe Sports will continue on Mondays over the summer.

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.

FAMILY REMINDERS

🌴 VACATION TIME = VACATION CREDITS

If you're planning time away this month, please let us know by writing your child’s name on the vacation calendar located on the parent table in the hallway or simply let your child’s teacher know. 

Families who have been enrolled for six months or more are eligible for a half-week tuition credit when taking five consecutive weekdays off. To receive the credit, please complete the Account Adjustment Form, also available at the parent table.


🎆HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

Please note: Especially for Children will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. We wish your family a safe and joyful holiday weekend!

Planning Ahead: EFC is closed Friday, September 4, for Staff Professional Development Day and Monday, September 7, for Labor Day.

STAR WELLNESS

star wellness

FRUIT SPARKLERS HOW TO:

1. Cut watermelon vertically into 1-inch thick slices.

2. Use a small star cookie cutter to cut out star shapes from the flesh of each watermelon round.

3. Thread 7-10 blueberries into the center of each bamboo skewer, leaving enough space at the end for someone to be able to comfortably hold it, and a space at the top for the watermelon star.

4. Place the watermelon star on top and set the fruit sparklers on a serving tray. Cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.


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 - Circle Pines

2 H South Pine Dr.

Circle Pines, MN 55014

(763) 786-9410

circlepines@cadence-academy.com

Center Directors

Jenna Thorson