Presidents’ Day Is a National Holiday

 Events
Feb 192024
 

George Washington

Abraham Lincoln

Presidents’ Day is a national holiday. Originally meant to honor George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, this day honors all of our Presidents. Children could read Anne Rockwell’s book, Presidents’ Day. They could also visit the White House site to read a biography of every president, starting with George Washington, at: White House Biographies. Children could participate in some Presidential trivia. Which President served the least amount of time? Which President served the most amount of time? Which President received a patent? Which President went on to serve on the Supreme Court?

President Roosevelt Ordered the Internment of about 110,000 Japanese-Americans in 1942

 Events
Feb 192024
 

President Roosevelt ordered the internment of about 110,000 Japanese-Americans in 1942. They were sent to concentration camps in western states. They lost their property, valued at about four hundred million dollars. Children could find out more about the reasons behind Roosevelt’s decision. What was life like in the concentration camps? They could learn more at: Japanese Relocation. Students might also read Farewell to Manzanar by Jeane W. Houston and James D. Houston.

Birthdays

 Birthdays
Feb 192024
 

Nicolaus Copernicus (born Torun, Poland, 1473; died Fromborck, Poland, May 24, 1543) was an astronomer and priest. He caused great upheaval among authorities when he proposed that the sun and not the earth was the center of our planetary arrangement. Children could learn more at: Copernicus.

Jeff Kinney (born Fort Washington, Maryland, 1971) is a cartoonist, game designer, and author of children’s books. He writes the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Children can visit his website at: http://www.wimpykid.com/.

Louis Slobodkin (born Albany, New York, 1903; died Miami Beach, Florida, May 8, 1975) was a sculptor, writer, and illustrator. He wrote and illustrated over 20 books. He and his wife, Florence, collaborated on five more books. In addition, he illustrated books by other authors, including Eleanor Estes and Mabel Leigh Hunt. He received the 1944 Caldecott Medal for his illustrations of Many Moons, written by James Thurber. Children can learn more at: Louis Slobodkin.