Day of the Dead Sculptures for the Ofrendas
Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) is celebrated today and tomorrow in Mexico and other parts of the world. The day celebrates all those who have died. Families and friends bring flowers to grave sites. They prepare festive meals and remember their loved ones by creating ofrendas, alters of offerings to their departed. Children can learn more at a fascinating site: Day of the Dead.
Flag of Algeria
Algeria celebrates Revolution Day, remembering its 1954 revolution against France. The country, located in northern Africa, is about 3.5 times the size of Texas. Its natural resources include petroleum, natural gas, lead, zinc, and phosphates. It is a member of OPEC. Over 38 million people live in Algeria, and Algiers is the capital. Children could learn more at: Algeria.
Flag of Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda celebrate Independence Day. The two islands gained their independence from the United Kingdom in 1981. However, the two-island nation still recognizes King Charles III as their monarch. According to The CIA World Factbook, the combined area of the two islands and smaller islands under their control is about 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC. Located in the Caribbean, southeast of Puerto Rico, their tropical climate attracts tourists. Tourism accounts for about 60 percent of their income. About 90,000 people call the islands their homes, and Saint John’s is the capital. How can children celebrate this holiday? They can peel, slice and sauté some plantain…yum! Children can learn more at: Antigua and Barbuda.
Great Books by Great Authors!
National Authors’ Day honors all authors. The custom dates back to 1929. Each child could pick out his/her favorite author and present a small biography about that person. Children could also read Eileen Christelou’s What Do Authors Do?
White House
The White House was ready for occupancy in 1800. Building had started in 1792, and John and Abigail Adams were the first President and First Lady to occupy the building. Children can learn more about the building and grounds at: White House.
United States Weather Bureau began recording weather observations in 1870. Children can visit a great website regarding weather at: https://www.weather.gov/owlie/.
Prime Meridian was formally agreed to in 1884. Twenty-five countries met to establish uniform lines of longitude and resulting 24 time zones. Prior to the agreement, fourteen different prime meridians were recognized. The Prime Meridian also divides the earth into the Western Hemisphere and the Eastern Hemisphere. The Prime Meridian and other lines of longitude, as well as lines of latitude, help us know where we are on earth and where we are in relation to others. Children can learn more at: Prime Meridian.