Have you read Bartholomew and the Oobleck?

I used to think I was familiar with most of the books written by Dr. Seuss.  However as I began to research ideas for Dr. Seuss week, I realized there are so many Dr. Seuss titles that I have not read.  I had never even heard of Bartholomew and the Oobleck.

Bartholomew and the Oobleck was written in 1949.  This book follows the adventures of a young boy named Bartholomew.  Bartholomew must save his kingdom from a sticky substance called oobleck.

This is a great book to use for creating a lesson that incorporates both children’s literature and science.

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Did you know today is Read Across America day?

The National Education Associate created Read Across America day which takes place each year on or near March 2nd (Dr. Seuss’ birthday).

This day is not simply about honoring Dr. Seuss or reading his books.  This is about teaching children the importance of reading.  It is to show children that reading can be and is an enjoyable activity.  It is intended to help children develop a love of learning that will continue throughout their lives.  Read Across America is in its thirteenth year of motivating children and teens to read.

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Do you know why tomorrow, March 2nd is significant?

It is Dr. Seuss’ birthday! Libraries, schools and classrooms across the country are preparing for this important day.  Some children will spend the day reading and/or listening to their favorite Dr. Seuss books.  Others will spend the entire week engaged in various learning activities related to this beloved author.

As an educator, mother of two young children and aspiring children’s book author, I have decided to dedicate the entire week to Dr. Seuss.  Throughout the week you will find posts about books, arts & crafts, online activities and websites all related to Dr. Seuss.

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Friday’s Discussion Topic:

How are birthdays celebrated in your home?

My son recently turned seven and this was the first year that we let him have a friend party.  Typically we do a family party at home.

He was able to invite five other friends over and then we took all six boys bowling.  It went much better than expected.  All the boys were very well behaved and had a lot of fun together.  The best part: I served the cake at the bowling alley which meant there was no crumb clean up for me! WooHoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Like I said, we had a great time with the boys.  However having a friend birthday party meant we still had to do a family gathering.  Two parties can get rather expensive and chaotic.  I’m not sure how we will do it next year.

How do you handle birthday parties?

Do you do two separate parties?

Ideas…Comments…Suggestions….

Have your children tried to wash dirty pennies?

Most kids enjoy washing anything and everything.  My kids are in heaven if I give them a bucket of soapy water and a sponge.  They will wash everything from their bikes to the siding on the house.  It is a great summer activity.

Since we live in Minnesota, the outdoor washing project must move indoors in the winter.  My son thought washing dirty pennies would be a good substitution.  We learned that pennies cannot be cleaned with soap and water.  Therefore penny washing turned into a science project.

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