International Mud Day?!

I had no idea that June 29th was International Mud Day! This came about in 2009 when Gillian McAuliffe from Australia and Bishnu Bhatta from Nepal wanted to find ways to build a feeling of community and appreciation for the world around us. They encouraged educators, families & children all over the globe to celebrate Mud Day on June 29. Regardless of race, religion, gender, age...we all are similar when we're covered in mud! After the next rainy day, get out there with your little one and get messy! Then check out one of these books from your local library.

Happy Mud Day!

Nature Enriches Life

Children and nature go together! This wonderful article outlines the importance of connecting young children with the outdoors. Research shows the positive impact exploring nature has on a child's social, physical, emotional and cognitive health. Click on the article at the bottom of this post to read more! Here are some fun titles to read after a day out!

http://www.naeyc.org/tyc/article/connecting-young-children-with-nature

The season of soaking up the sunshine, swimming, playing outdoors and NO SCHOOL is upon us! Though I am very excited for my students to have a well deserved break, I will miss them terribly. What an exceptional school year it was! I told my kiddos to promise me 2 things....that they would keep reading each day and to get outside and PLAY! Rochester truly has endless activities and events for families to enjoy during this beautiful season. The following link is packed with ideas to keep your little ones engaged, active and occupied until September!

http://rochester.kidsoutandabout.com/

Also, the local libraries do a terrific job of hosting kid friendly summer activities! Here are a few seasonal titles to get you started. 

Happy Summer!