Monthly Awareness Themes
Monthly Awareness Themes
Monthly Awareness Themes
Enhance learning at home or in the classroom by incorporating monthly awareness themes. The resources provided below promote appreciation for different abilities, highlight cultural diversity, and provide opportunities to celebrate educational and national holidays.The Month of May
We honor students with disabilities and those who support them during Special Education Week in New Jersey, celebrated this year from May 8th through 14th. Throughout the month, we advocate for Better Speech and Hearing, as well as Mental Health Awareness. May is also the time to promote physical activity during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage.
May Awareness Themes
Special Education Week in New Jersey (May 8th-14th)
The New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) and ASAH sponsor Special Education Week in New Jersey annually during the second week of May. This year it will be celebrated from May 8th - 14th and New Jersey will honor the diligence and perseverance of students with disabilities, their educators, parents, schools, and the school board members that contribute to the high quality special education services in our state.
Online Resources
ASAH - Information about special education services in New Jersey for teachers, administrators, parents, school districts, and state administrators. Includes a preschool guide and video advocacy series for parents, as well as links to state and federal government agencies, national disability-related sites, and New Jersey disability organizations.
New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education - NJCIE supports inclusive education for all students with disabilities and strives to build sustainable inclusive communities through advocacy, integrity, collaboration, and expertise. It’s annual Inclusion Works! poster contest runs through May 31, 2022. They also provide resources and services for parents, educators, and school districts.
New Jersey Department of Education: Special Education - Find a variety of information on special education policies and procedures, as well as resources and opportunities to learn more about topics such as NJ Tiered System of Supports, person-centered approaches in schools and transition, and positive behavior supports.
NJCEC - Council for Exceptional Children - The NJ Chapter of CEC offers a newsletter, events, and resources for educational professionals. It also provides Awards and Scholarships for students and teachers. Some resources are for members only.
SPAN Parent Advocacy Network - SPAN is the New Jersey Affiliate of Parent to Parent USA, dedicated to giving families the skills and support they need to help their children with disabilities reach their full potential. Services include informative materials, webinars, in-person and online trainings, conferences, one-on-one assistance and more. Find your local parent group here.
Special Education Week 2022 - May 8–14 - NJSBA - The NJSBA serves local school boards through advocacy, training and direct services. Since 2002, the NJSBA has partnered with ASAH to recognize imaginative and effective programs for special needs students with the “Innovations in Special Education '' awards program as part of Special Education Week in NJ.
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about current issues and best practices in special education, explore this curated list of resources.
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Better Speech and Hearing Month
Better Speech and Hearing Month, BHSM, was established in 1972 by American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This month is the time to raise awareness, examine your own speech and hearing, and seek assistance if you’re experiencing speech and hearing concerns. The 2022 theme is Connecting People. Follow along on social media using #BHSM!
Online Resources
Better Hearing and Speech Month 2022 - ASHA - ASHA offers free templates, social media graphics, public service announcements, infographics, and consumer education handouts to raise awareness about communication disorders and the role of ASHA members in providing life-altering treatment. They also host the BHSM Social Media Contest, Speaking Up For Communication.
Better Hearing & Speech Month - American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery - ENThealth offers a poster, fact sheets, tips, and articles in honor of Better Hearing and Speech Month.
May Is Better Hearing and Speech Month - Noisy Planet - Noise-induced hearing loss typically develops slowly over time. Noisy Planet provides preteens, as well as their parents, caregivers, and educators, with tools and information to adopt healthy hearing habits. Learn more about What Parents Can Do to Protect Kids’ Hearing, explore their Teacher Toolkit, or watch a video about the Journey of Sound to the Brain.
Reading Rockets: Top 10 Resources on Speech, Language and Hearing - Discover the significance of early language, listening, and speaking on literacy development. If you believe a student is not advancing appropriately with speech, language, and/or hearing problems, learn more about testing and accommodations. You'll also find strategies on reading aloud with children who have speech and language problems.
Teacher Resources – Speech and Hearing BC - A list of resources to assist teachers in understanding communication disorders, providing support to parents, and developing early literacy. Articles, a toolkit, and other information is available.
LRC-South Resources
To explore a curated list of our resources that support language, speaking, and listening skills, click here.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health awareness is promoted throughout the month of May, with a particular emphasis on its importance in children and adolescent development on May 7th: National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. This year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)’s theme is “Together for Mental Health.” Follow along on social media using hashtags #MHAM and #Together4MH.
Online Resources
Children and Mental Health: Is This Just a Stage? - NIH - A guide for parents and caregivers about when to seek help for their child, the first steps to take, possible assessment and treatment options, choosing a mental health professional, and working in partnership with their child’s school. Includes a list of additional resources as well.
Digital Shareables on Child and Adolescent Mental Health - NIH - Raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and early diagnosis and treatment by sharing information and materials on the latest research. Resources include graphics, social media messages, videos, and educational materials for kids (also available in Spanish).
For Educators - MentalHealth.gov - Educators are often the first to notice mental health problems. Learn the warning signs, who to turn to in your school when concerns arise, and how to support the mental health of all your students.
Mental Health Month - NAMI - Browse resources for engagement during Mental Health Awareness Month, such as awareness information, social media images and graphics, an event guide with suggested activity descriptions, advocacy tools, and personal stories from people experiencing mental health conditions.
Preventing Suicide in Youth: What Parents Need to Know - InfoAboutKids - A brief overview of suicide and mental health, including a debunking of related myths, signs to look for, tips for talking to youth, and resources to help.
Time to Talk - Mental Health America - A guide for adolescents and teens on signs and symptoms that it’s time to talk to someone about their mental health, tips for finding someone to talk to and getting the conversation started, and common concerns about sharing their mental health experiences with their parents.
Webinars - National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH) - Free monthly webinars to promote high-quality, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive school mental health supports and services. Recordings and pdfs of past webinars are available as well.
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about the importance of mental health and how to support the mental wellbeing of your students or family members, check out this curated list of our resources.
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National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is hosted by the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition to promote physical activity. Follow along on social media using #MoveinMay, #MoveYourWay, and #PhysicalActivity.
Online Resources
101 Tips for Family Fitness - SHAPE America - A round-up of easy-to-implement tips to increase family fitness when you’re at home, in the kitchen, at school, at work, in the great outdoors, in your backyard, around the neighborhood, stuck inside on rainy days, or just about anywhere!
For Educators - National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) - Videos, articles, and tools for educators seeking to be more inclusive during physical activities. Explore topics such as UDL in physical education, inclusive PE stations, adapted yoga for kids, sports for children with disabilities, and more!
Movement and Learning in Elementary School - Phi Delta Kappan - Reviews the benefits of incorporating physical activity into your lessons, as well as five strategies to do so. Strategies are tied to instruction, application, or assessment.
Move Your WayⓇ - ODPHP - The Move Your WayⓇ campaign is based on the recommendations in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Discover tools, videos, fact sheets, and tips for finding safe, fun ways to be more active! Includes an interactive tool to design weekly activity plans and ensure you and your family get the recommended amount of physical activity every day. Also available in Spanish.
New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites - NJDEP - Search New Jersey’s state parks and forests by location or activity. Biking, hiking, and in-line skating are great ways to move on our state’s picturesque trails! In addition to these activities, many county parks also offer sports fields, fitness trails, and playgrounds. Explore one near you: Atlantic County, Burlington County, Camden County, Cape May County, Cumberland County, Gloucester County, or Salem County.
Physical Activity - Alliance for a Healthier Generation - Explore these tools, strategies, and training materials to create a physically active learning environment for your students. Includes resources to get students moving in the classroom, during recess, and before/after school.
Staying Fit - KidsHealth for Parents - A collection of articles with tips about fitness for kids at different developmental stages, as well as tips for engaging in sports and motivating kids to be more active. Available in Spanish and audio format.
LRC-South Resources
To explore a curated list of resources that promote inclusive physical activities and sports, click here.
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Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
In 1992, the official designation of May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month was signed into law. The month of May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad which was majorly completed by Chinese immigrants with May 10, 1869. Follow #APAHM on social media for more information!
Online Resources
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage and History in the U.S. - EDSITEment! - A teacher’s guide offering a collection of lessons and resources for K-12 social studies, literature, and arts classrooms that center the experiences, achievements, and perspectives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout U.S. history. Includes topics such as immigration, the model minority myth, cultural legacies, poetry, media and film, and civics education.
Asian Americans - PBS LearningMedia - Asian Americans is a five-hour film series on the history, identity, contributions, and challenges of Asian Americans. Browse over thirty lesson plans based on this series for grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 exploring the ways that Asian Americans have shaped our nation’s history.
Asian Pacific American Heritage - Selected resources for teachers from the Library of Congress, National Archives, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service and the Smithsonian Institution. Explore exhibits, collections, audio recordings, videos, and images all honoring Asian Pacific American Heritage Month!
Curriculum / Lesson Plans - Asian Americans Advancing Justice Los Angeles - A host of lesson plans and activities on the rich history and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Filter by grade level (K-13+), subjects, time period, and theme.
Teaching Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage - Learning for Justice - Sarah SoonLing Blackbur and Jon Tobin unpack the origins, meaning, and contemporary impact of the term “Asian American Pacific Islander” in this webinar. They also break down the model minority myth and provide educators with resources to effectively teach AAPI history.
We Are Not a Stereotype: Breaking Down Asian Pacific American Bias - The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center presents a video series for classroom teachers and caregivers who teach exploring the multiple timelines, geographies, and identities that are included in the term Asian Pacific American. Many videos include links to complementary collections in the Smithsonian Learning Lab.
LRC-South Resources
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Theme Archive
April 2022
Kicking off the month is Autism Acceptance Month, with World Autism Day on April 2nd, so wear blue! Then, let us honor precious young children and celebrate them during Week of the Young Child® from April 2nd - 8th. This month we also honor the contributions of Arab Americans through National Arab American Heritage Month, promote environmental education and action on Earth Day (April 22nd), and appreciate the creative work of poets during National Poetry Month and Poem in Your Pocket Day on April 29th!
Autism Acceptance Month
In 1970, the Autism Society started a campaign to spread awareness, promote acceptance, and ignite change for individuals with autism. The first annual National Autistic Children’s week was held in 1972 and grew into Autism Awareness Month. The Autism Society and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network now promote Autism Acceptance Month every April, with World Autism Day on April 2nd. Check out #LightUpwithKindess, #LightItUpBlue, #WorldAutismMonth on social media to be part of this important conversation globally. Closer to home, Autism New Jersey equips volunteer ambassadors to promote understanding and acceptance of autism throughout the state. Follow hashtags #AutismNJAmbassador and #shapingthefuture on social media to learn more about what’s happening in our state for #autismawareness and #autismacceptance!
Online Resources
Amazing Kids - Autistic Spectrum Condition (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) by Amazing Things Project - Watch an animated video based on interviews of autistic children from different backgrounds describing their unique experiences and how they want to be treated by others.
Autism-Friendly Events in the Community - Autism New Jersey - Discover how community organizations and businesses are learning about autism, training their staff, and providing options to accommodate patrons with ASD. Local examples are included with tips for hosts.
Autism New Jersey Ambassador Program - Autism New Jersey’s campaign to increase awareness, education, understanding, and compassion for autistic individuals and their families. Explore resources and ideas for engaging your community, such as your local police department, neighborhood, workplace, and local government. Check out the educator resources, social media toolkit, and Fact-a-Day Calendar as well!
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) - A nonprofit organization run by and for autistic individuals that fights for disability rights and empowers the autistic community to amplify their voices through policy and legal advocacy, educational resources, advocacy tools, and leadership training. Learn more about the importance of Identity-First Language.
PL Shorts: Neurodiversity Informational Series with Amy Accardo - LRC-South - In this series of four short videos, Dr. Amy Accardo explores the question: What is neurodiversity? Learn about language usage and definitions, the importance of self-advocacy, and strategies to improve executive functioning skills.
Welcome to the Autistic Community - ASAN - This website features a book by ASAN for autistic people who want to learn what being autistic means and non-autistic people who want to learn how to support autistic people. Read online or download for free.
World Autism Awareness Day - Autism Speaks - This year marks the 15th annual World Autism Awareness Day. Participate by taking the pledge to create a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential, joining a Kindness Campaign, or wearing blue. Information is also available in Spanish.
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about autism and how to promote acceptance in our communities and schools, check out this curated list of our resources for families and educators.
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Week of the Young Child® - NAEYC
The National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) has sponsored the Week of the Young Child® since 1971 to increase public awareness of the importance of early childhood and its unique needs. Each day has a designated theme for young children, their families, and their teachers to celebrate together through movement, music, food, art, and collaboration. This year, the Week of the Young Child® will be held from April 2nd through April 8th. Follow #WOYC and #WOYC22 on social media to join in the fun!
Online Resources
Cooking with Preschoolers - KidsHealth - Discover the benefits of cooking with preschoolers, ideal jobs in the kitchen for little ones, and tips for getting started on your family cooking adventure.
Early Literacy Development - Reading Rockets - Resources for parents, teachers, and childcare providers to support the development of oral language and pre-literacy skills. Explore featured videos, a PBS Series, FAQs, articles, professional development webcasts, and milestone checklists.
LRC-South Learning Activities - Explore our Learn & Create activities with your child! Each hands-on activity comes with ready-to-print instructions and a short video tutorial. Check out Very Hungry Caterpillar Story Can for Tasty Tuesday, Marvelous Marble Run for Work Together Wednesday, Awesome Art Experiences for Artsy Thursday, or Let’s Get Ready to Read for Family Friday.
Practice Improvement Tools: Using the DEC Recommended Practices - ECTA - The DEC Recommended Practices provide guidance for families and practitioners to promote the development of young children who have or are at-risk for developmental delays or disabilities. Explore practice guides with videos, vignettes, and checklists that explain these practices and how to implement them at home or in your community. Each guide is also available in Spanish.
Resources for Families - STEM Innovation for Inclusion in Early Education Center - Evidence-based resources, tips, and ideas that enable young children with disabilities to engage in STEM experiences. Resources include storybook conversations, discovery play activities, daily routine explorations, video demos, and a guide to adaptations.
Week of the Young Child® - NAEYC - Read an overview about the weeklong celebration and explore curated ideas and resources for each day. Theme days include Kick-off Saturday, Music Monday, Tasty Tuesday, Work Together Wednesday, Artsy Thursday, and Family Friday.
Your Quick Guide to Family Projects: A Home-School Connection Booster for Early Ed - Brookes - Examples, tips, and a free download to help early childhood educators incorporate family projects successfully.
LRC-South Resources
To explore a curated list of resources that promote fun-filled learning experiences for young children, click here.
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National Arab American Heritage Month
The Arab America Foundation has celebrated National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM) since 2017 to recognize the achievements of Arab Americans. Hundreds of government entities on local, state, and federal levels have since recognized NAAHM through proclamations. Learn more by following #ArabAmericanHeritageMonth on social media!
Online Resources
Arab American Heritage Month Webinar: Immigrant to EL Instructor - TESOL International Association - Free webinar on April 5, 2022 from 6 pm to 7 pm (ET), during which Fatima Aldajani and Rana Samanie will share their personal experiences from English students to English Language (EL) educators. Advance registration required.
Arab American Stories - Detroit Public TV - Each episode in this series features the stories of three Arab Americans around a common theme, such as innovators, artists, or civic leaders. The website also includes accompanying lesson plans for grades 9-12, information on Arab American history and prominent figures, and additional resources for further exploration.
Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month - Learning for Justice - Resources that support educators in celebrating Arab identity, countering negative stereotypes, and teaching about Arab history and cultures.
Digital Education Program - Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture - A digital library of interactive games, e-books, song tools, and other resources for educators and students to enhance their appreciation of Arabic language, arts, culture, and history.
For Educators - Arab American National Museum (AANM) - The AANM seeks to tell the Arab American story by highlighting economic, political, and cultural contributions of Arab Americans, their history, and the shared experiences of diverse immigrants. Explore virtual galleries, educational activities, lesson plans, English-Arabic Storytime, and more!
How Teachers Can Support Arab-American Students - Cult of Pedagogy (Episode 185) - Jennifer Gonzalez interviews Dr. Sawsan Jaber about Arab-American students’ sense of belonging in school and how educators can better support them through a more inclusive environment. Listen to the interview (transcript provided) or read the summary of the most important takeaways.
National Arab American Heritage Month April 2022 - Arab America - Read about the history of NAAHM and find educational resources that promote greater understanding of Arab migration, geography, language, diversity, traditions, and achievements. The Educator’s Curriculum Kit includes a ready-to-use presentation with review questions!
LRC-South Resources
To explore a list of curated resources for families and educators that celebrate Arab American heritage, click here.
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Earth Month
Many institutions and organizations celebrate Earth Month throughout April. A special highlight is Earth Day on April 22nd, facilitated by EARTHDAY.ORG in collaboration with over 75,000 partners. This year’s theme for Earth Day is Invest in Our Planet. Follow along on social media using #EarthDay and #InvestInOurPlanet!
Online Resources
52 Ways to Invest in Our Planet - Earthday.org - Actions and tips that will help your family make a difference, on Earth Day and everyday! Ideas include ways to engage in community clean-ups, citizen science projects, and advocacy efforts, as well as ways to learn about environmental issues and develop earth-friendly habits.
Celebrate Earth Day - PBS Learning Media - Videos, articles, interactives, activities, and lesson plans on environmental justice and conservation efforts, generally geared toward middle school through high school students. To fully access these resources, you will need to make a free account.
History of Earth Day - National Geographic Kids - Learn a brief history of Earth Day and how to protect the planet throughout the year. Additional links throughout the article provide the opportunity to dive deeper into a particular environmental topic, take a Get Outside Challenge, or create a DIY eco-friendly craft.
Learning and Teaching about the Environment - EPA - Educators will appreciate this collection of lesson plans, teacher guides, online resources, community service project ideas, and science fair project ideas. Students can learn about different environmental topics and enjoy a variety of games, quizzes, and videos.
Environmental Education Resources - NEEF - Browse educator toolkits, educational activities and activities guides for home or the classroom, and infographics by the National Environmental Education Foundation. Consider additional resources by the Cornell Lab, Project Learning Tree, and NEEF initiatives such as the Greening STEM Hub or Samsung Climate Superstars.
NJ Climate Change Education Instructional Resources - NJSLS Instructional Supports (NJDOE) - Sample activities, lesson plans, and units for K-12 educators that are standards-based, student-centered, action-oriented, culturally responsive, and inclusive.
Remote EE Hub - Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education - A curated list of lessons and activities developed by ANJEE’s partners and organizations throughout the state to promote environmental education. Filter by grade level, PreK through high school. There are also sections specifically for adult learners and families!
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about investing in our planet, explore this curated list of resources for families and educators.
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National Poetry Month
Established by the Academy of American Poets, this annual celebration reminds us of the significant role poets have played in our society. Use #NationalPoetryMonth all month long and #pocketpoem for Poem in Your Pocket Day on April 29th.
Online Resources
Amanda Gorman, Youth Poet Laureate, has speech and auditory processing issues - Understood - Biographical article on Amanda Gorman, describing her experiences in school and her journey to becoming the nation’s first Youth Poet Laureate in 2017. More recently, she performed “The Hill We Climb” during the 2021 Presidential Inauguration.
April is National Poetry Month! - ReadWriteThink - A collection of resources with classroom activities, websites, lesson plans, student interactives, professional development opportunities, and parent resources. There is something for everyone!
Favorite Poem Project - Boston University - Short videos of Americans reading a poem they love and explaining its significance in their lives.
National Poetry Month - Academy of American Poets - The home page for this annual celebration, with a list of ideas and resources for families and educators to join the celebration online, at home, and in the (virtual or physical) classroom. Middle and high school teachers will appreciate Teach this Poem featuring lesson plans for a poem paired with primary sources from the Library of Congress, while families will enjoy Poem in Your Pocket Day.
Poems at Home - Reading Rockets - Briefly explains the benefits of sharing poetry with your children, along with how to plan a family poetry! Also available in Spanish.
Poets for Science - Traveling Stanzas - Launched on Earth Day 2017, Poets for Science is a traveling exhibit exploring the connection between science and poetry. View the collection online and have students participate by using Gary Snyder’s For All as a model poem for their own poetic pledge to the scientific community or scientific methods.
The Poetry Learning Lab - Poetry Foundation - Curated resources for children, teens, adults, and educators, including poems, videos, articles, featured poets, podcasts, poem guides, the Young People’s Poet Laureate’s book picks, and more!
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about poets and enjoy their creative works, explore this curated list of resources for families and educators.
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March 2022
This month, we promote inclusion in all aspects of life through World Down Syndrome Day on the 21st and National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. We recognize the strength, determination, and contributions of influential people and their movements during Deaf History Month (March 13th - April 15th) and Women’s History Month. We also focus our attention on the importance of music and art by celebrating Music in Our Schools Month® and Youth Art Month.
World Down Syndrome Day
In 2006, Down Syndrome Singapore kicked off the celebration of World Down Syndrome Day. On the 21st day of the third month, World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated to highlight the distinctiveness of the third copy of the 21st chromosome that causes Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21). “What does inclusion mean?” is the theme for 2022. Follow #WorldDownSyndromeDay, #InclusionMeans and #LotsOfSocks on social media for more information!
Online Resources
World Down Syndrome Day - Check out this year’s campaign for World Down Syndrome Day, learn about Down Syndrome from individuals with Down Syndrome, and explore ways to take action.
Q&A For Kids - NDSS - The National Down Syndrome Society offers a brief Q & A geared for children about Down Syndrome. You can also find information and further details about Down Syndrome. NDSS also provides parent support to questions you could be pondering.
Just Like You - A video about how individuals with Down Syndrome want to be treated and how they participate and interact in general daily activities. This video follows the Golden Rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
Chromosomes R Us - This short film in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day is by actors with Down Syndrome and explains how Trisomy 21 occurs. It was created by Shabang Inclusive Learning in partnership with Mediapreview.
Educators — Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas - Here you will find resource downloads for teachers in their classroom. Peer presentations inform you and your students about students with Down Syndrome.
LRC-South Resources
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National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
In 1987, President Ronald Reagon announced March as National Developmental Disabilities Month. Throughout the month, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) partners with other national and local organizations to highlight the importance of creating strong communities through the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all areas of life. This year’s theme is Worlds Imagined. Join this important conversation by using #DDAwareness2022, #DDAM, or #WorldsImagined on social media!
Online Resources
Art Enables - Art Enables strives to create opportunities for artists with disabilities to make, market, and earn income from their artwork and take their place as an invaluable part of the arts community through their studio art program and gallery. Check out this introductory video of what they do and then explore the different artists and exhibitions!
Best Buddies in New Jersey - A nonprofit organization built on the four pillars of one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Hear what those who have been matched in the Best Buddies Friendship program have to say about it in this video!
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2022 - NACDD - Explore resources that highlight the celebration and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities. Their DDAM 2022 Resource Guide will be updated weekly throughout March and includes organizations, videos, podcast episodes, social media tips and exemplars, texts and toolkits, and events.
Disability Inclusion Glossary - Understood - Provides an overview of key terms that are important to understand when striving to make your local community more inclusive.
Hiring People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities- Understood - This three part series explains what to know about hiring, recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and why doing so is beneficial to your organization.
The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities - The NJCDD engages in advocacy, collaboration, and education to fulfill their vision that all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are participating, equally-included members of their communities. Get involved by participating in one of their programs or special projects, reading their quarterly magazine, attending a virtual meeting, or browsing their list of resources!
Thriving with Learning & Thinking Differences - Understood - A playlist of short videos in which individuals share their experiences of thriving with learning or thinking differences.
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities, check out this curated list of our resources for families and educators.
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Deaf History Month
Deaf History Month is celebrated from March 13th through April 15th to honor three significant milestones: the opening of the American School for the Deaf in Connecticut (April 15, 1817), the signing of the charter for Gallaudet University (April 8, 1864), and the first deaf president of Gallaudet University following the Deaf President Now! movement (March 13, 1988). Follow #DeafHistory on social media to learn more!
Online Resources
#deafhistoryTHAT - National Association of the Deaf - A playlist of videos describing different topics, events, and people throughout Deaf History. Transcript and closed captioning available for those unfamiliar with ASL.
DEAF MOSAIC #402 - Described and Captioned Media Program - An episode of the Emmy-winning TV series that depicts the Deaf President Now movement of 1988, which was a watershed moment in Deaf history resulting in the first deaf president of Gallaudet University. For more resources by DCMP, check out their Deaf History page.
Deaf President Now - Gallaudet University - Information on the issues that drove the Deaf President Now movement (DPN), biographies of key individuals in the movement, and the lasting impact of DPN on deaf and hearing people around the world.
Helen Keller: Author, Advocate, and Activist - PBS Learning Media - A lesson plan for grades 3-7 in which students learn about Helen Keller’s accomplishments and advocacy work through viewing a short video, examining photographs, and reading excerpts of her autobiography. Includes discussion questions, learning activities, and resources for background information.
History Through Deaf Eyes Online Exhibit - Gallaudet University - An online exhibit highlighting significant aspects of Deaf history and culture, including the formation of a community; language and identity; community building; and awareness, access, and change. Photographs and primary source documents are included throughout.
Sign Language that African Americans Use is Different from that of Whites - Washington Post - Explains the historical development of ASL and Black ASL and explores the diversity present within Deaf culture.
LRC-South Resources
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Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month originated out of a weeklong celebration held by the school district of Sonoma, California in 1978. Women’s addition to history, culture, and the nation were paid homage during this celebration. President Jimmy Carter announced Women’s History Week the week of March 8th in 1980. Then by 1987, the Women’s History Project petitioned Congress to establish the celebration for the entire month. Follow #WomensHistoryMonth on social media for more information!
Online Resources
Students and Educators - National Women's History Museum - Explore biographies of influential women, historical topics, downloadable posters, and educational resources. Browse their digital classroom resources by type, topic, and/or grade level.
Women in Culture - Google Arts & Culture - Explore historical and ongoing women’s contributions in all aspects of STEM, as well as other cultural arenas such as business, sports, music, art, politics, education, and pop culture. Scroll to the bottom for downloadable lesson plans!
Women's History Month - Curated resources for teachers from the Library of Congress, National Archives, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, and Smithsonian Institution.
Women’s History: Famous Women - Through articles, timelines, and videos, History.com covers historical milestones and women who pioneered to contribute honorable notions for society and the world.
Women's Rights National Historical Park - This U.S. National Park’s website offers information about the Declaration of the Sentiments, which was shared at the Women’s Rights Convention in 1848, and other resources on the important people, places, and stories of the women’s rights movement. Check out their virtual tours and distance learning programs as well!
LRC-South Resources
To learn more about women’s contributions throughout history, explore this curated list of our resources for families and educators.
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Music in Our Schools Month
Since 1973, March has been the month where music education is focused upon in schools. The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is responsible for Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®). Follow #MIOSM and #MusicTheSoundOfMyHeart on social media for more information!
Online Resources
Chrome Music Lab - The Chrome Music Lab makes learning music more hands-on and can be applied to all subjects. Here you will find thirteen different musical activities. Students can create their own song or draw a picture that embodies music note-by-note.
National Museum of American History - Smithsonian Jazz - The Smithsonian offers an entire section on jazz and delves into the history of jazz. Short stories, audio clips, and videos feature Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Carter, and John Levy. A timeline explains notable jazz accomplishments categorized by months.
Learn - New Jersey Symphony Orchestra - Go on an interplanetary adventure, embark on a digital safari, and experience rare instruments with NJSO musicians as your guide! Explore their pro tips and masterclasses as well. While here, enjoy videos featuring student musicians and their experiences in the NJS Youth Orchestra Spotlights.
PBS Learning Media: Music - PBS delivers an extensive library of musical videos, lesson plans, and toolkits from various cultures and expounds about many decades. Filter resources by grade level (PreK-12), subject, type, language, and accessibility features.
Students Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®) - National Association for Music Education - The official website for Music In Our Schools Month® will guide you through resources and ways to celebrate music education this month.
LRC-South Resources
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Youth Art Month
Youth Art Month (YAM) is a celebration of the visual arts promoted by the Council for Art Education and participating state organizations. This year’s theme is “Art Connects Us.” Enjoy the artistic endeavors of youth across the country by following #ArtConnectsUs and #YouthArtMonth on social media!
Online Resources
How Art Helped a Struggling Student Better Understand Himself - Understood - A short video of Marcos Allen, the winner of the 2017 Anne Ford Scholarship from the National Center for Learning Disabilities, as he describes how he discovered his artistic talent and the confidence it gave him.
Learning Disabilities and the Arts by the National Center for Learning Disabilities - LDOnline - Provides an overview of the benefits of incorporating the arts into educational experiences for students with learning disabilities.
Best Practice Lessons - Art Education of New Jersey - Lesson plans by AENJ’s Division Award Winners, spanning all grade levels. The AENJ has many other resources for educators, including Art21 and ArtBeat.
Studio Access Video Library - UpStream Arts - Short arts-learning videos for people of all ages and abilities. Filter by artistic discipline, language (including ASL, English, Somali and Spanish), and social skill!
Visual Art - PBS Learning Media - A collection of resources to support art education. Filter by resource type (including videos, interactives, lesson plans, and media galleries), grade level (preK-13+), and topic within visual art. For non-art educators, check out the “Visual Art and Other Domains” to learn how to incorporate art into your content area.
What You Need to Know about Inclusive Education in the Art Room - The Art of Education University - Provides an overview of laws related to special education and their impact on the art classroom, with numerous examples and resources for supporting inclusive art education.
Youth Art Month - Art Education of New Jersey - AENJ will be posting results from the 2022 Youth Art Month Design Contest, as well as suggested activities to celebrate YAM.
LRC-South Resources
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February 2022
This month, we honor the achievements of African Americans during Black History Month and recognize the benefits of career and technical education. As part of our monthly celebrations, we will also join others across our community in practicing Random Acts of Kindness during the week of February 13th!
Black History Month
Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the ASNLH established Negro History Week in 1926 which decades later turned into Black History Month. Black History Month honors and celebrates African Americans of the past, present, and future. In February and all year long, we celebrate their lives, their contributions to the world, and the record-making history they forged! Follow hashtags #BlackHistoryMonth, #BlackHistory, and #BHM on social media for more information!
Online Resources
14 STEAM Classroom Activities to Celebrate Black History Month | Ozobot - Engage your students with a variety of projects and activities that will increase their knowledge of African Americans.
African American History and Culture: Reading Rockets - Explore this source provided by Reading Rockets that encompasses African American authors, illustrators, poets, and storytellers, as well as booklists, tips for teaching black history, lesson plans for educators, and activities for families.
Black History Month: National Geographic - The National Geographic provides you with a resource library of articles, videos, activities, maps, and photography lessons to engage your students on the topic of Black History. Review National Geographic Kids for elementary school-aged information.
Highlighting African Americans with Disabilities in Honor of Black History Month - Reflect on the realities and challenges that continue to shape the lives of African Americans with disabilities. Learn about Black Americans with disabilities and their significant contributions to the world.
Kids Explain Black History Month - A video of students explaining Black History Month from their individual perspectives.
NMAAHC: Our American Story - The National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian Institute, showcasing individuals and events in the African American experience, placing these stories in the context of a larger story — our American story.
PBS Learning Media | Black History Month | PBS KIDS - This video provides a brief overview of why we celebrate Black History Month and introduces some legendary African Americans.
LRC-South Resources
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Career & Technical Education Month
The Association for Career & Technical EducationⓇ celebrates Career & Technical Education Month, or CTE Month,Ⓡ every February to promote the benefits of CTE programs and their accomplishments. Follow hashtags #CTE, #CTEMonth and #CTEWorks on social media to learn more!
Online Resources
Best Job Ever - National Geographic - This playlist of short videos explores a variety of lesser known professions that secondary students would find intriguing. For elementary students, check out a similar playlist by National Geographic Kids!
Career Exploration - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Engaging interface for students in grades 4-12 as they explore possible careers. Careers are grouped by categories; click on a career of interest to visit its entry in the Occupational Outlook Handbook, which includes a career summary, videos, and other pertinent information. A similar US BLS resource, the Periodic Table of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Occupations, focuses solely on STEM careers.
CareerOneStop Video Library - Explore short videos featuring hundreds of different occupations (also available in Spanish), eight broader career clusters/industries, and over twenty career-centered skills and abilities. This is a great resource to reference with your children or students as they begin to consider what career path they may want to pursue!
Career and Technical Education | NJDOE - Information of the statewide implementation of secondary and postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) programs.
Career Tech NJ For Students and Parents - Provides information about New Jersey’s county vocational-technical schools, their programs, and frequently asked questions.
CTE Month and NASA Hunch 2021-2022 Student Video Challenge - ACTE - Students in CTE or project-based classes across grade levels (elementary through postsecondary) may participate. This year’s challenge is “How Can Space Exploration Solve Climate Change?”
New Jersey Career Assistance Navigator (NJCAN) - Provides interactive tools for exploring one’s interests and skills, occupations, training programs, and postsecondary education. Free sign in as a New Jersey resident; schools can request free accounts for their students as well.
LRC-South Resources
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Random Acts of Kindness Week
Join us in spreading care and compassion with Random Acts of Kindness Week! This weeklong celebration is February 13-19, 2022. The goal of #RAK, originally celebrated in 1995, is to change schools, the workplace, families, and society through kindness and #MakeKindnessTheNorm. A smile to a stranger or note to a friend will brighten someone’s day. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself too!
Online Resources
15 Kindness Quotes for Kids | Inspire Kindness - Motivate your students to build kindness in their daily lives with these inspiring quotes.
Kindness Playbook - Character Lab - This playbook defines kindness, explains its importance, offers a reflective exercise, and details how to encourage kindness in others through modeling, celebration, and planning. Includes a classroom poster and slides for teachers.
Random Acts of Kindness Foundation - Get inspired with kindness ideas, quotes, videos, and stories, along with free posters and calendars! Educators can find free CASEL-approved lesson plans and resources for K-12th grades. There are also activities and discussion topics for families of all ages in the free Kindness at Home program.
Random Acts of Kindness in School - Edutopia - Five simple ideas to promote kindness in your classroom across all grade levels.
The Science of Kindness - Learn about the science behind kindness that makes it so important.
LRC-South Resources
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January 2022
In January, we celebrate National Braille Literacy Month to raise awareness about literacy skills for people with visual impairments and National Mentoring Month to promote the power of relationships in transforming lives. We also honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by learning about his legacy and performing works of service on the third Monday of January.
National Braille Literacy Month
Louis Braille invented the tactile code using six raised dots known as braille. In honor of his birthday on the 4th, January is recognized as National Braille Literacy Month to raise awareness about the significance of braille literacy among people with visual disabilities. Follow #BrailleLiteracy on social media to learn more throughout the month!
Online Resources
12 things you probably don’t know about braille - Perkins School for the Blind - Did you know there are two versions of braille or that braille can be used to write almost any language? Find out how many volumes Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is in braille, what the Braille Challenge is, and other trivia facts to share this month!
ABCBraille - Developed by a parent to support other parents and teachers as their kids learn braille. Older children would enjoy exploring the Text to Braille and Braille to Text tools!
Braille - American Foundation for the Blind - A great resource for sighted parents and teachers looking to support children who are blind or visually impaired learning braille.
Braille BugⓇ - Published by the American Printing House for the Blind, this is a great introductory resource for parents and teachers of primary and elementary-age children! Includes information about braille, online games, and printable activities.
Is Braille Still Relevant in a High-Tech World? - Perkins School for the Blind - A 5 minute video of secondary students and adults describing the significance of braille in their lives.
How Braille was invented: Moments of Vision 9 - Jessica Oreck - TEDEd - A two minute video detailing the origins of braille, along with resources to explore and a prompt to discuss.
The power and possibilities of braille: A community conversation with Matthew Shifrin - In this webinar from Career Launch @ Perkins, Brian Switzer (author, deafblind athlete, and Assistive Tech Instructor) and Matthew Shifrin (podcaster, entrepreneur, and founder of Lego for the Blind) talk about why braille matters in the 21st century.
LRC-South Resources
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is observed annually on the third Monday of January to enact Dr. King’s dream of a Beloved Community by serving together. Organized by AmericCorps and The King Center in partnership with countless local, state, and national groups, Americans honor Dr. King’s legacy by volunteering in their communities. Use the hashtag #MLKDay on social media to see how others are serving this year!
Online Resources
Civil Rights Done Right: A Tool for Teaching the Movement - Learning for Justice - A step-by-step guide for teachers to reflect on their current practice of teaching about the civil rights movement. Provides tools to guide students toward a more complete, nuanced, and relevant understanding of the movement.
Do’s and Don’ts of Celebrating MLK Day - Learning for Justice - Provides practical advice inspired by Coretta Scott King’s vision of MLK Day in three areas: classroom displays, curriculum, and discussions. Applicable for families who desire to have meaningful discussions about Dr. King’s legacy as well!
Freedom’s Ring - Listen to Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech while exploring multimedia images and learning about its historical context. Interactive and engaging, with a plethora of information!
Liberation Curriculum Lesson Plans - The Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University - Filter lesson plans by grades and subjects that are centered on the use of primary and secondary sources, especially Dr. King’s speeches and writings. Includes essential questions and learning activities.
MLK Day of Service - AmeriCorps - Find a volunteer opportunity near you, register your volunteer opportunity for others, or explore resources to start your own service project.
Students with King Virtual Tour - The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change - A 14-minute video tour of the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, Dr. and Mrs. King’s crypt, and Dr. King’s birth home by MLK National Historical Park Ranger Marty Smith. Students will enjoy the many anecdotes about Dr. King at different ages!
LRC-South Resources
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National Mentoring Month
The nonprofit organization MENTOR facilitates National Mentoring Month every January to promote the positive impact of mentors on young people and raise awareness about the power of relationships. Celebrate on social media with the hashtags #MentoringMonth, #MentoringAmplifies, and #ThankYourMentor.
Online Resources
Best Practices for Mentoring Youth with Disabilities - National Mentoring Resource Center - Use this guidebook to ensure your mentoring program is inclusive and supportive of youth with disabilities. Includes an overview of the impact of mentoring youth with disabilities, examples of mentoring models, and best practices for supporting mentors and mentees throughout the process.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America - The largest volunteer-supported mentoring network in the country, developing positive relationships between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and youth ages 5 through young adulthood (“Littles”) through community-based and school-based programs. Check out Big Brothers Big Sisters of Atlantic & Cape May Counties and of Cumberland & Salem Counties to get involved locally.
Mentoring - Partners for Youth with Disabilities - Free, online mentoring for young adults (ages 18-26) with disabilities across the United States who are interested in career readiness support. Participants are selected through an application process and will have access to a group of professional mentors and monthly virtual workshops.
National Mentoring Month 2022 - MENTOR - Use provided toolkits to engage your public officials, corporation, digital sphere of influence, or local media channels with the mentoring movement; spin the wheel to discover ways you can celebrate; search for local mentoring opportunities; or explore their new resource, “Becoming a Better Mentor” (released January 10th, 2022).
Setting Up a Mentoring Program to Encourage Students - Edutopia - Discover how one high school teacher created a classroom mentoring program and its positive impact on students.
Students Teaching Advocacy through Mentoring Program - LDANJ - STAMPNJ wants to "stamp out" feelings of shame and lack of information about learning disabilities through student mentoring for elementary through postsecondary students. Student leaders share about their own disabilities, the importance of self-advocacy, and the value of assistive technology in their lives, empowering their mentees to recognize, accept, and understand their learning disability; cultivate self-advocacy and communication skills; and build self-esteem and confidence.
Who Mentored You - Harvard T.H. Chan - The Harvard Mentoring Project interviewed people from various fields about their mentors. Watch or read these celebrity stories and explore resources for celebrating National Mentoring Month or becoming a mentor!
LRC-South Resources
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December 2021
This month, we strive to protect the dignity of all people and cultivate more equitable and inclusive communities near and far by celebrating International Persons with Disabilities Day on December 3rd, Inclusive Schools Week from December 6th to December 12th, and Human Rights Awareness Month. We’re also invited to explore coding and the impact of computer science through Hour of CodeTM activities and Computer Science Education Week (Dec. 6th - 12th). As we enter the winter months, National Handwashing Awareness Week (Dec. 5th - 11th) reminds us of the importance of this simple personal hygiene practice in keeping ourselves and our communities healthy.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: December 3rd
Annually on December 3rd, International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated. In 1992, the United Nations General Assembly established IDPD as a day of celebrating the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, learning from their experiences, and taking actions to create a more inclusive world. The 2021 theme is “Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world.” See how others are celebrating by following #IDPD on social media!
Online Resources
Ability - Learning for Justice - Bring the voices of people with diverse abilities into your classroom and create a learning environment that rejects ableism. These resources will help your students embrace diverse abilities and understand the injustices people with disabilities often encounter.
Dec. 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities - Zinn Education Project - Resources for teaching about the history of the disability rights movement, including articles, films, digital collections, websites, and news stories.
Global Accessibility News (GAN) - Browse headline news from around the world related to accessibility issues. Filter by geographic region or topic, such as assistive technology, built environment, disaster readiness & relief, current events, transportation, and universal design.
International Day of People with Disabilities - Explore the history of disability rights and movement, services for people with disabilities, and ideas for charity fundraising. Download logos, posters, email signatures, and website banners to show your support.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), 3 December 2021 - UN DESA - Did you know that 1 in 7 people in the world have some form of disability? Learn how the United Nations is promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities all year round, with special events and programs for IDPD.
RAW Emotion Unites Us - International Paralympic Committee - Explore five uplifting stories from Paralympians through an interactive WebXR experience. Each story centers an athlete and the emotions that define their most challenging and rewarding moments, presented in a way to change perceptions of disabilities.
Voices of People with Disabilities During the COVID19 Outbreak - International Disability Alliance - People with various disabilities across the globe share their experiences during the pandemic, indicating how their life has changed and additional barriers they’ve encountered.
LRC-South Resources
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Inclusive Schools Week: December 6th - 12th
Since 2001, educators, students, and families have celebrated the progress that schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to a diverse student population and discussed what else needs to be done in order to ensure that schools continue to improve their ability to successfully educate all children. This year’s theme is “Rebuilding our Inclusive Community Together.” See what other educators, students, schools, and families are doing to celebrate by following #InclusiveSchoolsWeek, #ISW2021, and #InclusiveSchools on social media!
Online Resources
Foundations of Inclusion TIPS - TIES Center - TIPS are designed to share practical information, ideas, and strategies on specific topics and practices to support inclusive education for students with significant cognitive disabilities in kindergarten through 8th grade.
Ian (Animated Short Movie) - An award winning short film inspired by a true story of a boy with cerebral palsy and his determination to join his peers at their local playground.
Inclusion Basics: Philosophy and Practice of Inclusive Education - ISN - A short learning module that reviews the definition of inclusion, importance of inclusion, and barriers to inclusion.
Inclusion Institute - LRC-South - In June 2021, the LRC-South hosted a virtual event for general and special educators and administrators that focused on reimagining inclusive education in the post-pandemic classroom. Explore this collection of presentation videos and supporting resources.
Inclusive Schools Week - Inclusive Schools Network - Explore featured activities to use in your classroom and download free resources, such as the 2021 Celebration Guide, social media kit, and a letter to principals.
Publications - New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education - NJCIE has compiled and created resources, manuals, and guides for families and educators to support the implementation of inclusive practices, such as the “Inclusion Works! Parent Manual” and “How to Be a Good Influence to People with Disabilities.”
Self-Assessment - Inclusive Schools Network - This instrument is designed to provide schools with a tool to guide a review of current practices regarding inclusive practices.
LRC-South Resources
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Hour of Code & Computer Science Education Week (CSEd Week): December 6th - 12th
The Hour of CodeTM is a global initiative by Computer Science Education Week and Code.org to introduce millions of students to one hour of computer science and computer programming. CSEd Week is celebrated each year during the week of Admiral Grace Hopper’s birthday (December 9th), in honor of her pioneering work in computer programming. The 2021 theme is #CSEverywhere, highlighting the impact that computer science is making everywhere and the relationship that computer science has to different subjects, industries, career paths, and our everyday lives. Check out what other educators, students, and families are doing or share your own activities using hashtags #HourOfCode, #CSEdWeek, and #CSEverywhere!
Online Resources
Hour of CodeTM:
Hour of CodeTM - The Hour of CodeTM is a nationwide initiative by Computer Science Education Week and Code.org to introduce millions of students to one hour of computer science and computer programming. Activities include free tutorials for all grade levels (Pre-reader through 9+), experience levels, and subjects. There are even “unplugged activities” that don’t require access to a computer or device to complete!
How to do an Hour of CodeTM with your child - A user-guide for parents planning to facilitate an Hour of CodeTM for their children.
How to plan your Hour of CodeTM - Resources to help educators plan an hour of code in class or after school, including a participation guide, how-to video, promotional ideas, and tips for hosting a virtual event.
National Family Code Nights - CS is Elementary provides K-5 schools the opportunity to host a free, live-streamed National Family Code Night. Parents and children learn together with Hour of CodeM puzzles from Code.org!
Computer Science Education Week:
Best Apps and Websites for Learning Programming and Coding - Common Sense Education’s top picks that support project-based learning and give students the freedom to create, collaborate, hack, remix, and tinker with their own unique designs.
Code.org - Free computer science courses to use with students of all experience levels in grades K-12 and professional learning courses for teachers. Users can also complete self-paced CS lessons on their own or explore the Game Lab, App Lab, or Web Lab for project ideas! Need help getting started? Educators, click here; families, click here.
Computer Science Education Week - The starting point for all things CSEd Week! Find ready-to-use activities including welcome activities and optimistic closures; stories of CS heroes; posters and poster lessons; virtual events for all ages; guides and tutorials; inspiring videos; and advocacy resources.
Ignite a future of possibilities for your students - Code with Google - Sign your class up for a virtual visit or register for an Ignite Experience 30 minute livestream session during CSEd Week! Both are led by Google professionals demonstrating the value of CS skills in their work and potential future careers for students. You can also browse CS activities for grades 4-12 through CS First, Applied Digital Skills, Code Next, and Grasshopper.
Kode5 - Twenty hours of free streaming computer science lessons per grade level by CS is Elementary, to use in school or at home. Their lessons require zero teacher training, experience, special resources or cost. An expert virtual co-teacher and quick prep guide are provided for classroom teachers.
LRC-South Resources
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National Handwashing Awareness Week: December 5th - 11th
Check out what other educators, students, and families are doing during National Handwashing Week by using #KeepHandsClean on social media!
Online Resources
BAM! Body and Mind - Hand Washing Experiment - An experiment for students in grades 5-8 on the importance of handwashing. Developed by the CDC.
COVID-19 Resources for Families: Teaching Children to Wash Hands - Engaging resources to help children understand the importance and techniques of handwashing. Includes social stories, a visual schedule, videos, songs, and tips for children with sensory difficulties. Curated by the STEM Innovation for Inclusion in Early Education (STEMI2E2) Center.
Handwashing - Videos, an online book, and a printable activity by Sesame Street in Communities. Ideal for preschool.
Handwashing: A Family Activity - The CDC helps parents and caretakers instill the habit of regular handwashing in their children. Check out the “Handwashing: Keeping Your Family Healthy” fact sheet, available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and French!
Health Promotion Materials - Free student-friendly graphics, fact sheets, posters, stickers, videos, and podcasts promoting handwashing. Developed by the CDC. Available in Spanish.
Inquiry into Infectious Disease: It’s a Germy World After All - An experiment and webquest for high school students on the transmission of germs and the importance of handwashing as a preventative measure. Developed in collaboration with the CDC.
NSF’s Scrub Club - Engaging videos, activities, and infographics promoting handwashing among 3 to 8 year olds.
LRC-South Resources
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Universal Human Rights Month
The United Nations observes Human Rights Day on December 10th. The 2021 theme is Equality: Reducing Inequalities, Advancing Human Rights. Check out how people around the world are recognizing the importance of universal human rights by using hashtags #HumanRightsDay and #Standup4humanrights.
Online Resources
Human Rights Day - United Nations - Explore this year’s theme, discover your rights, watch video messages, learn about the women who shaped the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, consider relevant events around the world, and browse UN resources.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights:
The Illustrated Version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - This illustrated version of UDHR was a collaborative effort by Yacine Ait Kaci (illustrator), the United Nations Regional Information Centre, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights - Regional Office for Europe. Great for projecting or screen-sharing to read with children!
The Simplified Version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - Provides a side-by-side comparison of the original text and the text paraphrased in everyday language. Ideal for diving deeper into the UDHR with upper elementary and middle school students.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights in ASL - A video of the UDHR signed in ASL.
Youth Reading Parts of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - A short video highlighting the UDHR read by youth in different languages. This would be a great “hook” for a lesson on human rights!
Teaching About Human Rights:
For Educators - The Advocates for Human Rights - Free curricula, lesson plans, educator resources, and other educational materials that explore a variety of human rights issues in the United States and around the world.
Kahoots - United Nations - Use one of the UN’s Kahoots to engage your students as they learn about human rights.
Human Rights Academy - Amnesty International - Free online courses to use with students ages 10+, developed with a flipped classroom in mind. See Teacher’s Guide for curated courses by age; must sign up for a (free) account to access. Available in over 20 languages.
Sustainable Development Goals - Student Resources - Human rights are at the center of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Check out these playbooks, toolkits, games, illustrated online books, guides, activities, and lesson plans to teach students of all ages about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and call them to action in their own lives.
Teaching and Advocacy About Human Rights - Resources provided by the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS).
World’s Largest Lesson - Project Everyone, in partnership with UNICEF and with thanks to UNESCO, developed this collection of free videos, activities, infographics, posters, lesson plans, and training guides for teachers and parents to engage students of all ages with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Introductory videos feature well-known figures such as Malala Yousafzai and Emma Watson. Available in over 30 languages!
LRC-South Resources
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November 2021
November is a time to honor the heritage of Indigenous people and Native Americans, as well as the sacrifices of veterans and military families. This month also invites you to explore geography during the week of the 15th to 19th and enjoy picture books everyday!
Indigenous Heritage Month / Native American Heritage Month
President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October to be National Learning Disabilities Month in 1985. “Learning disabilities” is an umbrella term that describes a number of neurological differences that impact listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, and/or social skills. Spend time this month learning more about different learning disabilities and follow along on social media using the hashtags #LDAwareness and #LDAwarenessMonth!
November was first declared Native American Heritage Month in 1990 as a way of celebrating the important contributions and diverse cultures of Native American/Indigenous people. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the ways Native people have confronted bias, discrimination, and oppression both historically and in the present. Use hashtags #IndigenousHeritageMonth and #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth to learn more.
Online Resources
Indigenous Heritage - National Park Service - History, heritage, or culture of Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians are part of every national park. Find lesson plans and information on people and places significant to indigenous heritage.
Native American Heritage Month - Anti-Defamation League - Explore lesson plans across all grade levels, tools and strategies, literature recommendations, and articles to bring the themes of Native American Heritage Month to your classroom.
Native American Heritage Month - The Library of Congress - Exhibits, audio and video resources, lesson plans, student activities, collection guides, research aids, and images curated and designed by The Library of Congress, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, and Smithsonian Institution, among others.
Native Knowledge 360° - National Museum of the American Indian - Teaching and learning about Native Americans can occur in meaningful ways across different subject areas. Use these resources to bring new ways of thinking to multiple disciplines, including science, English language arts, and social studies. The museum also offers webinars for educators and students, as well as virtual field trips.
Native Land - A map of Indigenous lands that seeks to change, challenge, and improve the way people see the history of their countries. Enter your address or click on the map to see relevant territories in your location and learn more about that tribal nation, language, or treaty. For how to use this map in your classroom, check out their Teacher’s Guide.
Thirty Everyday Phrases that Perpetuate the Oppression of Indigenous Peoples - Indigenous peoples and their cultural traditions are real and deserving of respect. They are not historical artifacts, caricatures, or mascots. Practice this truth by questioning some everyday language.
Tribal Nations & The United States: An Introduction - National Congress of American Indians - Learn about the history and underlying principles of tribal governance through the guide, regional profiles, and tribal directory.
LRC-South Resources
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National Veteran and Military Families Month
November was declared Military Family Month in 1996 as a time to recognize the sacrifices of our military families and the strength, resilience, and courage they embody. Veterans Day was originally a commemoration of Armistice Day, which ended fighting during World War I on November 11, 1918, and is celebrated today in honor of America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve. Use hashtags #MilitaryFamilyMonth and #VeteransDay to honor our service members and their families!
Online Resources
5 Things You Need to Know about Military Families - USO - There is often a civilian-military disconnect. Here are five things you need to know about what life is really like for the families of those who protect and serve our nation.
National Veteran and Military Families Month - The National Child Traumatic Stress Network - A list of resources for military children and families, educators, and civilian and non-civilian mental health providers, including fact sheets, tip sheets, webinars, and more.
Veterans Day - US Department of Veterans Affairs - View the 2021 Veterans Day Poster Competition Winner, designed to evoke elements of the history, legacy, and meaning of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Explore past winning submissions, Veterans Day speeches, a teacher's guide, and Veterans Day history for students as well.
Veterans Day 2021 - History Channel - Learn about the history of Veterans Day, from originating as “Armistice Day” in 1919 to becoming a national holiday in 1938.
Veterans Day: All About the Holidays - PBS LearningMedia - A short video about Veterans Day, appropriate for grades K-5.
Veterans: Sesame Street in Communities - PBS Learning Media - A short collection of resources for PreK-K military children to help them through new moves and changes. Applicable for any young child who has experienced a move or big change in their life!
Veterans’ Stories: The Veterans History Project - PBS LearningMedia - Stories of veterans or of U.S. citizens who were actively involved in supporting war efforts, beginning with World War I and continuing through the conflicts of the 21st century. See the teacher’s guide for using these personal narratives, correspondence, and visual materials in your classroom (grades 6-12).
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Geography Awareness Week (November 15-19, 2021)
Geography Awareness Week was created by National Geographic to encourage Americans to learn about the significance of place, understand geo-spatial issues, reflect on their relationship with their environments, and consider their impact on the world as global citizens. Follow along with hashtags #GeoWeek and #ThatsGeography!
Online Resources
Applying Geographic Thinking Skills with Your Learners - National Geographic - A free, self-paced mini-course that equips K-12 educators to integrate geographic thinking into their instruction across disciplines.
Celebrate Geography Awareness Week - National Geographic - A variety of ideas for activities to do or events to host, such as a movie night, trivia challenges, or geocaching!
Geography Awareness Week - National Geographic - Learn about the program’s mission and history and find answers to frequently asked questions such as “What is geography?”
GeoInquiries - ESRI - Collections of 15 minute inquiry-based activities that use interactive maps to enhance standards-based instruction in upper elementary, American literature, earth science, environmental science, mathematics, government and civics, human geography, U.S. history, world geography, and world history.
Google Earth Education - Classroom activities, interactive guided tours, mapping tools, and other resources that bring geospatial thinking into all subject matters and encourage exploration, inquiry, and engagement.
Interviews with Professional Geographers - Powerful Geography - Videos of interviews with professional geographers in all different fields, explaining how they use geographic knowledge and skills to complete their job. Check out their interviews with non-professional geographers to learn how firefighters, law enforcement, musicians, and others use geographic knowledge and skills in their jobs as well!
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Picture Book Month
Picture Book Month is an international literacy initiative that celebrates the print picture book during the month of November. Find out why others think picture books are important or share your own reason using hashtag #picturebookmonth.
Online Resources
Celebrate! Picture Book Month - Explore a list of ways to celebrate Picture Book Month, such as submitting a review of your favorite picture book or hosting an author/illustrator visit.
Picture Book Month Teacher’s Guide - Packed with engaging ideas and activities to bring picture books into the ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies curricula!
Picture Book Search - ReadWriteThink - Explore lesson plans, student interactives, and other classroom resources on using picture books across content areas and grade levels. Filter results by grade, learning objective, or topic.
Picture Book Search - NCSS - Explore journal articles by the National Council for the Social Studies on using picture books in Social Studies classrooms across grade levels. Filter results by level, subject area, or topic. Some articles may be for members only.
Randolph Caldecott Medal - ALSC - An annual award given by the Association for LIbrary Service to Children (ALSC) to artists of the most distinguished American picture books of their time for children. Filter by author, other honors, genre, and award year.
Sharing Wordless Picture Books - Reading Rockets - Part of Reading Rockets’ monthly tips for parents, this article provides families with tips for enjoying wordless picture books with their child. Also available in Spanish.
Using Picture Books to Make Text to Investigation Connections - NSTA - Watch Christine Royce’s session during NSTA’s Engage: Spring21 virtual conference to explore how the literacy strategy of “text to” connections can be expanded upon to promote inquiry in the elementary science classroom.
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October 2021
This month we celebrate learning differences through Learning Disabilities (LD) Awareness Month and expand our understanding of disability employment through National Disability Employment Awareness Month. October 15th wraps up Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on September 15th. This month also extends a special invitation to foster safe school communities through the observance of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month and Safe Schools Week (October 17th-23rd).
Learning Disabilities (LD) Awareness Month
President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October to be National Learning Disabilities Month in 1985. “Learning disabilities” is an umbrella term that describes a number of neurological differences that impact listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, and/or social skills. Spend time this month learning more about different learning disabilities and follow along on social media using the hashtags #LDAwareness and #LDAwarenessMonth!
Online Resources
Learning Disabilities Awareness Month - LD Online - Learn more about different types of learning disabilities, engage in a fun family activity, read inspirational stories, and discover the history of LD Month.
Support and Resources for Parents - LDA - Find resources developed by the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) that provide information on understanding learning disabilities, negotiating the special education process, and helping your child and yourself.
Take N.O.T.E. - Understood - A step-by-step tool to help family members spot signs of learning and thinking differences, gather necessary information, and seek support from practitioners. Check out Understood’s video explanation of the tool as well!
TeachingLD.org - Tutorials, practice guides, videos, Q&As, and other resources developed by the special interest group of the Division for Learning Disabilities (DLD) of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Filter by resource type or topics such as reading, writing, mathematics, content areas, transition, or behavior.
The LD Checklist: Recognize and Respond - NCLD - A tool that helps family members detect potential signs of LDs or an attention issue in their child so that they can bring any concerns to school personnel or other professionals. Upon completion, users can download the checklist and their results, explore resources to guide further learning, and refer to a curated list of questions to ask pediatricians and educators.
LRC-South Resources
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National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 - Oct 15)
On August 17, 1968 National Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 until October 15. September 15th is especially important because it marks the independence of the following Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico established its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Follow #HispanicHeritage and #HispanicHeritageMonth for more information!
Online Resources
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and 6 Other Latinx Trailblazers You Should Know | HuffPost - Without these pioneers and their revolutionary ideas, the world wouldn’t have made as much progress as we see today. This article was created to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and amplify the diverse voices within the community.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month | PBS - Travel through history and reach the present with videos on The Latino Americans (documentary series), Latin Music USA, and Latino Public Broadcasting. All About the Holidays Video | PBS - Recognizing the contributions of Hispanics and Latinos in the United States.
Hispanic Heritage Month | Origins & Facts - HISTORY - Outlines the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and why we celebrate.
National Hispanic Heritage Month | Resources For Teachers - A collaborative project of the Library of Congress and the National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and U.S. National Archives and Records Administration.
LRC-South Resources
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National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month & Safe Schools Week
National Bullying Prevention Month was founded by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center and seeks to prevent childhood bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. America’s Safe Schools Week is appropriately observed during the third week of this month. Sponsored by the National School Safety Center, state governors, and state school superintendents, the goal is to motivate key education and law enforcement policymakers, students, parents, and community residents, to advocate for school safety. In New Jersey, this week may be referred to as School Violence Awareness Week and usually includes staff training and student activities that promote conflict resolution, student diversity, and tolerance.
Online Resources
Bullying and Youth with Disabilities and Special Health Needs - stopbullying.gov - Learn about creating a safe environment, federal civil rights laws, and bullying prevention for youth with disabilities and special health needs.
Get Help Now - stopbullying.gov - Learn what to do if you or someone you know is being bullied. Includes resources for different audiences (kids, teens, and adults), as well as specific problem scenarios.
Keeping Our Kids Safe, Healthy, & In School: Violence Awareness - NJDOE - Guidelines, suggested activities, and a curated list of resources developed to support school districts in the observance of School Violence Awareness Week.
National Bullying Prevention Month - PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center - Activities for families, schools, and community members to support bullying prevention. Resources include bookmarks, posters in English and Spanish, lesson plans for elementary and middle/high school students, and a four-week activity kit for K-12 classrooms. To prevent bullying all year long, check out their resources for parents, kids, and teens!
NSBA Center for Safe Schools - An initiative of the National School Boards Association (NSBA) that seeks to support and ensure a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and the community through education, engagement, and empowerment. Resources include quarterly newsletters, publications, and webinars.
Safe Schools Week - National School Safety Center - Suggested ideas and activities to intentionally and creatively improve school safety. They detail thirteen primary strategies aimed at informing public opinion regarding school safety concerns, followed by additional strategies to use when working with specific audiences such as school board members, school staff, students, families, law enforcers, and others.
Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) Promise Club - Sandy Hook Promise - SAVE Promise Clubs educate, empower, engage, and encourage student leaders to take an active role in increasing school safety and preventing different forms of violence. Check out their student guide for participating in Safe Schools Week!
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September 2021
It’s Back to School season! In the month of September, we honor National Deaf Awareness Month and National Hispanic Heritage Month that is celebrated from September 15th until October 15th, and National Preparedness Month. September also plays host to Library Card Sign-up Month and & International Literacy Day which is on September 8th, so pick up something interesting to read! Best wishes to a safe and prosperous school year!
National Deaf Awareness Month
National Deaf Awareness Month is observed in September to commemorate the month the first World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf was held and is marked by two global celebrations. The 2021 theme of the International Week of Deaf People (September 20th-26th) is “Celebrating Thriving Deaf Communities” and the 2021 theme for International Day of Sign Languages (September 23rd) is “We Sign for Human Rights.”
Online Resources
A Few Things to Know about American Sign Language - NPR - Five Deaf people share what they want other people to know about American Sign Language in this short video.
ASL Stories for Families - CSDB Channel - A playlist of children’s books read in American Sign Language and English.
Communicating with Deaf Individuals - NDC - A Tip Sheet by the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes, describing how deaf individuals communicate, explaining the impact of one’s setting, and listing tips for effective communication in personal and large group situations.
The ASL App - Created by Ink & Salt LLC, a Deaf-owned and Deaf-run company, to create connections between the non-signing community and the signing community. Tweens, teenagers, and adults can use the free ASL App to learn conversational ASL; check out their ASL with Care Bears app for children!
Celebrating Thriving Deaf Communities graphic by the World Federation of the Deaf.
LRC-South Resources
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National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 - Oct 15)
On August 17, 1968 National Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 until October 15. September 15th is especially important because it marks the independence of the following Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico established its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Follow #HispanicHeritage and #HispanicHeritageMonth for more information!
Online Resources
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and 6 Other Latinx Trailblazers You Should Know | HuffPost - Without these pioneers and their revolutionary ideas, the world wouldn’t have made as much progress as we see today. This article was created to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and amplify the diverse voices within the community.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month | PBS - Travel through history and reach the present with videos on The Latino Americans (documentary series), Latin Music USA, and Latino Public Broadcasting. All About the Holidays Video | PBS - Recognizing the contributions of Hispanics and Latinos in the United States.
Hispanic Heritage Month | Origins & Facts - HISTORY - Outlines the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and why we celebrate.
National Hispanic Heritage Month | Resources For Teachers - A collaborative project of the Library of Congress and the National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and U.S. National Archives and Records Administration.
LRC-South Resources
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Library Card Sign-Up Month & International Literacy Day
Library Card Sign-Up Month has been an annual campaign of the American Library Association since 1987 to promote the transformational power of a library card. Follow #LibraryCardSignUpMonth on social media to explore ways to participate all month long!
Celebrate International Literacy Day on September 8th. This year’s theme is “Literacy for a human-centered recovery: Narrowing the digital divide.” Use #InternationalLiteracyDay and #ILD2021 to learn more!
Online Resources
30 Under 30 - International Literacy Association - Celebrate International Literacy Day by reading about these emerging literacy leaders around the world, including 10 year old Havana Chapman-Edwards in Germany and 12 year old Olivian Van Ledtje in the United States. Their inspiring stories would make a great springboard for discussions in 7th-12th grade classrooms!
ilovelibraries - American Library Association - Learn about the significance of libraries and librarians in the world today, key issues impacting them, and how you can support them. Includes a section for book lovers with book resources and recommendations, as well as a section for parents about how libraries can facilitate a deeper connection with their children.
Marley Dias: The 13-Year Old Author Who Made a Difference - CommonLit - An informational article for middle grade students about teenage literacy advocate Marley Dias and her campaign #1000blackgirlbooks. Includes annotation tools, questions to guide and assess students’ understanding, discussion prompts, paired texts, and a parent guide.
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month - American Library Association - Discover ways to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month and free social media graphics! Graphics also available in Spanish.
We highlighted Literacy in June 2021 as part of our Summer Learning Series. Check out the Theme Archive for an extensive list of literacy resources for preK-5th grade and 6th-12th grade students!
LRC-South Resources
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National Preparedness Month
In 2004, September became known as National Preparedness Month and its remembered due to the tragedies of September 11th. The theme this year for National Preparedness Month is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” Follow #BeReady on social media for more information!
Online Resources
10 Kids Weather Videos that are Teacher Approved - These weather videos are appropriate for early childhood aged children and inform them how to stay safe and the characteristics of severe weather.
Ready.gov - Prepare appropriately for National Preparedness Month. Check out the weekly themes and make a plan with your family.
Talking to Children about Severe Weather - Bright Horizons explores the emotional toll severe weather takes on children. Discover questions and how families can support children to feel safe and secure during a disaster.
United States Environmental Protection Agency - Review general information about any emergency, how to report emergencies, how to prepare communities, schools and businesses.
LRC-South Resources
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August 2021
As we wrap up our Summer Learning series, STEAM is our focus theme and let’s always remember to keep learning! This month of August we also celebrate Kindergarten Readiness for some of the youngest learners starting school for their first time and we honor Back to School to gear up for a successful school year.
Summer Learning: STEAM - Pre-K-5th Grades
As our Summer Learning Series comes to a close let’s end strong with learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. These subjects enlist problem solving and gathering and developing knowledge.
Online Resources
Educators | NOAA SciJinks – All About Weather - Learn all about the weather with this variety of educational materials and resources to explore.
NSTA Daily Do - Check out the various tabs ranging from Elementary to Families. Find lesson plans and hands-on activities to complete with children. You will have the opportunity to explore lessons like “Why Are There Fish in the Desert?” and “How Do Kites Fly?”
Science Resources for Learning from Home, Grades K–5 - The Carolina Biological Supply Company is supporting families and educators assisting students in elementary and middle school grades with engaging activities.
STEAM and How Children Use It - Children are able to solve problems and better understand Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. This document serves as an educational resource.
LRC-S: STEAM Resources - Review the Science, Technology, Arts, and Mathematics online resources curated by the Learning Resource Center-South.
LRC-South Resources
Check out our curated list of STEAM resources for grades PreK-5th.
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Summer Learning: STEAM - 6th-12th Grades
As our Summer Learning Series comes to a close let’s end strong with learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. These subjects enlist problem solving and gathering and developing knowledge.
Online Resources
Crash Course Kids - A collection of science related videos to curve the interest of young learners in all things science.
Kit Hub: Free STEAM Lesson Plans - Check out these STEAM activities and lesson plans that enrich learning for students.
STEAM Games, Apps, and Sites | Common Sense Education - These games, apps, and websites will keep adolescents enriched in learning and curious to learn more about STEAM.
STEAMsational: Middle School STEM Activities - A host of activities geared toward middle school students. There are even STEM activities categorized by holidays.
LRC-South Resources
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Kindergarten Readiness
Kindergarten is the first year of formal schooling some children receive, so let’s make it count and allow the transition to be simpler by preparing these young learners.
Online Resources
Understood: Readiness Checklist - Explore Understood.org’s resource to help guide your young learner in preparation for kindergarten. Topics included are: language skills, reading readiness, math, self-care, social and emotional, fine motor, and gross motor skills.
Edutopia: How to Ease Your Child's Kindergarten Jitters - Ease your child by practicing how to say goodbye, teaching them and them exploring their new school, address your child’s concerns upfront, and be diligent.
Scholastic: The Skills Kids Need for Kindergarten Readiness - Explore skills that are expected of kindergarteners.
NAEYC: Ready or Not Kindergarten, Here We Come! - Check out these tips to prepare your kindergartener children for the onset of the new school year.
LRC-South Resources
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Back to School
As we plan to return Back to School, let’s be prepared and ready to do our best.
Online Resources
ChildMind Institute: Back to School Resources for Families, Educators - The ChildMind Institute a curated list of articles. They explore Back to School Tips for Children that are Struggling, Children Who Have Anxiety about Math, School Success Kit for Students with ADHD, and How to Help Kids With Working Memory Issues. Review this resource for additional information and important topics.
Edutopia: Back-to-School Resources for Parents - This resource from Edutopia delves into building a parent toolkit, questions to ask your child’s teacher, back to school and being safe and healthy, as well as questions to ask your students about school.
Regional Educational Laboratory (REL): Trauma-informed strategies - Visit this website to gather valuable information about how to best support students back to school during the COVID era.
U.S. Department of Education: Back To School - The U.S. Department of Education shares a curated collection organized by the following categories: Parents, Students, and Educators. Visit the website to learn more about monthly calendars and advice for parents and a student success toolkit.
LRC-South Resources
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July 2021
This month on July 26th, we celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act being signed! We also continue with our series on Summer Learning with particular attention on Social Studies, Civics, and Civic Engagement.
Americans with Disabilities Act Day
On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act. This year marks the 31st Anniversary! Previously, individuals with disabilities faced discrimination in public places and while seeking employment. ADA is broken into 5 different categories (titles): Employment, State and Local Government Services, Public Transit, Businesses That Are Open to the Public, Telecommunications, and Other Important Requirements. Follow #ThanksToTheADA, #ADA31, #ADAAnniversary on social media for more information!
Online Resources
ADA.gov: U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division - A federal civil rights law that protects the rights of Americans with disabilities in daily activities. Gain more insight into ADA and its importance.
ADA National Network - The ADA National Network impacts 2.8 million people with disabilities. Explore this resource to learn more about the need for the network, regions, its critical role, national services, and outcomes.
Learning Resource Center-South: Students with Disabilities Resources - Effective strategies and resources to help students with disabilities succeed. This page features free resources to equip teachers with the right tools to help ALL students reach their potential.
The Northeast ADA Center: ADA Information, Guidance, and Training - This region partners with individuals in New Jersey with disabilities. Review this website for related resources, videos, webinars, and news specific to the Northeast ADA Center.
The Official Web Site for The State of New Jersey | Disability Services - Explore the State’s website for disability programs, information on developmental disabilities, and disability resources. You will also find resources on blind and visually impaired and mental health.
LRC-South Resources
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Summer Learning: Social Studies, Civics and Civic Engagement- PreK-5th Grades
Social studies covers a wide array of topics, especially for younger children. From learning about your local community to examining the world around you, social studies teaches the essential elements of civics, citizenship, and community engagement.
Online Resources
The College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards - Now more than ever, students need the intellectual power to recognize societal problems; ask good questions and develop robust investigations into them; consider possible solutions and consequences; separate evidence-based claims from parochial opinions; and communicate and act upon what they learn. And most importantly, they must possess the capability and commitment to repeat that process as long as is necessary.
Ducksters - This informational website covers topics from ancient history, world history, and US history. Scroll through to see timelines, photos, and questions answered about historical happenings.
Learning Resource Center-South: Resources for Social Studies - Discover free social studies activities, lessons, and interactive resources for all grades, all aligned to New Jersey Student Learning Standards.
History for Kids - Fun Facts and Social Studies - A free online history network that features games, videos, quizzes, and worksheets on continent and nation specific historical events.
PBS Learning Media: Elementary Social Studies - Uncover stimulating resources and methods for explaining social studies to children from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. They can watch the various series like the All About the Holiday series and discover so many more topics.
PBS Learning Media: Ken Burns in the Classroom - Ken Burns and his collaborators have been creating historical documentary films for more than four decades. These resources bring primary source documents, images, and archival video footage to life on screen, these films present the opportunity to ask thought-provoking questions for children and introduce new ideas and varying viewpoints.
LRC-South Resources
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Summer Learning: Social Studies, Civics and Civic Engagement - 6th-12th Grades
Social studies covers a wide array of topics for older students ranging from anthropology to political science. The focus shifts from gaining knowledge to deepening understanding and from examining the past to engaging in the present.
Online Resources
ASHP/CML - The American Social History Project: Central Media and Learning provides documentaries, articles, and historical memorabilia to review and highlight with adolescents.
A Social and Emotional Learning Framework for Addressing Tough Topics in Social Studies - Young people are able to reflect, respond and create to news events by using the writing approach and SEL described in this article. Allow their voices to be heard by providing the process of writing.
Big History Project - Meet the individual needs of learners by utilizing this website and it’s free and vivid content. Explore history while connecting to the future.
Facing History - A collection of various lesson ideas on a range of topics that have impacted and impact society and the world.
iCivics | Free Lesson Plans and Games for Learning Civics - Engage students in meaningful civics learning. Provides teachers with free inventive resources to enhance their practice and inspire learning.
PBS Learning Media: Middle School - Inspiring middle school literacy in social studies by viewing various video topics on Roberto Clemente, Immigration, the Egyptian pyramids and so much more. Social Studies Activities And Lessons explores resources on economics, government, and history.
The College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards - Now more than ever, students need the intellectual power to recognize societal problems; ask good questions and develop robust investigations into them; consider possible solutions and consequences; separate evidence-based claims from parochial opinions; and communicate and act upon what they learn. And most importantly, they must possess the capability and commitment to repeat that process as long as is necessary.
LRC-South Resources
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June 2021
We’re kicking off our Summer Learning Series this month with a focus on literacy skills! Research proves that the summer slide occurs for students, so stay tuned for various content areas and skills highlighted throughout the summer and check out our Family and Community - Learning at Home page for additional learning activities. On June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, we celebrate America’s second independence day. We also recognize LGBTQIA+ Pride all month long in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots of 1969.
Summer Learning: Literacy - PreK-5th
Enhance literacy development of students in PreK-5th grades by continuing the learning throughout the summer. Practice phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, fluency, writing, spelling and vocabulary to avoid the summer slide.
Enhance literacy development of students in PreK-5th grades by continuing the learning throughout the summer. Practice phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, fluency, writing, spelling and vocabulary to avoid the summer slide.
Online Resources
5 Simple Intervention Strategies to Strengthen Phonics Skills - Check out these engaging and hands-on strategies to catch the attention of young literacy scholars. Lesson plan ideas, songs, and activities are included.
15 Fun Ways to Build Language & Literacy Skills in Young Learners - The Inclusion Lab provides an interactive list of strategies of ways to build language and literacy skills in young children. These skill-building activities will enhance an excitement for words and books.
English Language Arts: Learning Resource Center-South - Check out our curated list of English Language Arts online resources.
Summer Activities for Building Kids' Language, Literacy, and Learning - Explore this resource which provides three activities children need more of and three activities children could use less of this summer. Great ideas to help children build language and literacy through daily activities!
Summer Learning Resources for Parents | Colorín Colorado - Colorín Colorado offers articles, reading tips and guides to enhance literacy during the summer months with your family.
Summer Literacy Strategies - McGraw Hills offers 9 tips to guide and encourage summer learning for elementary schoolers. Ideas range from remembering to use a reading list that is age or interest focused to downloading fun educational apps.
Start with a Book: Read. Explore. Learn - Decide on a topic, choose a kids’ book and continue the adventure of reading. Then, to explore further you can review Phonics and Decoding which is the partnership between the letters of written language and the sounds of spoken language. Fluency, the rate at which an individual reads as well as the accuracy and expression while reading. Reading Comprehension is understanding what you read. Check out the remaining reading basics this site provides.
LRC-South Resources
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Summer Learning: Literacy - 6th-12th Grades
Learning doesn’t stop when school does! With these resources, families can encourage their middle or high schooler to continue reading and writing throughout the summer months and educators work toward literacy-focused professional learning goals.
Online Resources
10 Ways to Encourage Your High-Schooler to Read - Understood - Practical tips for parents to encourage their struggling readers in middle or high school to read more, such as how to capitalize on their interests, find engaging books at their level, model good reading habits, and more.
2021 Top Ten Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers - YALSA - A curated list of books to encourage reading among teens who dislike reading for a variety of reasons. These titles have been selected due to their clear writing style, simple vocabulary, high interest topics, emotional appeal, and straight-forward structure.
Explore Summers Past & Present - ReadWriteThink - This activity encourages your middle schooler and an older family member to share favorite summer memories, practice interviewing and writing skills, and create an artistic Venn diagram comparing their experiences. Explore other family resources that promote literacy skills by ReadWriteThink for grades 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, and 11-12!
How to Help Your Tween Get the Writing Bug - Understood - Ideas to keep your middle schooler writing all summer long!
Libby - Overdrive - A free app that enables you and your family to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library! Encourage your tween or teen to get the app on their phone and sign up for your local library’s summer reading challenge. Audiobooks are also a great way to enjoy reading together as a family during the summer months!
Our 12th Annual Summer Reading Contest - The New York Times - A contest for middle and high school students that runs from June 11th - August 19th, encouraging participants to read articles in the Times and write about what caught their attention. Students can gain free access to the New York Times through their school or local public library.
“Write. Right. Rite.” Series - Library of Congress - A series of short videos with Jason Reynolds, the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. In each video, he provides a writing or activity prompt to help young people hone their skills of authentic self-expression and creative storytelling.
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Juneteenth
Juneteenth became an official holiday in Texas in 1980. While many Texans are taught about and celebrate the holiday, it has also been increasingly celebrated throughout the U.S. Explore ideas for teaching Juneteenth with these resources that introduce kids to the historic day when all slaves in the United States were legally freed.
Online Resources
Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture - Here you will find a Social Media Toolkit, a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Rochelle Rice, and reference several videos paying homage to Juneteenth! Video features offered are: Finding your Ancestors, The Historical Significance, Search the Records of the Freedman’s Bureau, and you can even hear an African American Folk Tale. You can also learn about “A Juneteenth Feast.'' Learn more about the historical legacy of Juneteenth.
What is Juneteenth and Why Do We Celebrate? | BrainPOP - An interactive video by BrainPop that explains Juneteenth. June 19th is considered a second Independence Day since all Americans became free.
Juneteenth - All About the Holidays - Watch this video by PBS Kids about Juneteenth as people gather together to learn about the experiences of African Americans during and after slavery. Find out more about the oldest holiday to celebrate the emancipation of slavey by viewing this video: Juneteenth: U.S. Department of State.
Learning for Justice: Juneteenth - Discover lesson plans on Juneteenth and fairness for as well as Juneteenth and identity for grades 3rd-5th. Delve into Teaching Culture as a Resistance for grades 6th-8th. Check out their website for additional lesson plans and information.
Four Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth with Students - This article from Edutopia provides four creative ways to celebrate such as listening to a griot or spoken-word artist, have children learn about greats like Frederick Douglas and Harriet Tubman and then share out their research, and take child(ren) on a virtual field trip to Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture or review videos or visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Celebrating Juneteenth: Time for Kids - Explore Time for Kids depiction of Juneteenth that explores the history of the date and the progression leading to its celebration.
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LGBTQ Pride Month
Pride Month is celebrated every June in commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City. It is often marked by parades, festivals, and other events that recognize the influence of LGBTQIA+ people, celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, and advocate for equal rights and legal protections.
Online Resources
50 Years of Pride - Google Arts & Culture - Explore high-resolution images and videos of artifacts, articles, and primary source materials celebrating 50 years of LGBT Pride, including the Story of Stonewall, Marching Through the Years, Stories On Screen, the Colors of Pride, LGBTQIA Artists, and more!
Gender & Sexual Identity - Learning for Justice - Classroom resources, professional development, and publications for educators on gender and sexual identity. Includes three featured resources, with the option to explore all related resources - use the filters to search by grade level, social justice domains, or type of resource.
LGBTQ History and Why It Matters - Facing History and Ourselves - A complete lesson plan in which students will consider whose experiences have been excluded from the way history has been traditionally taught and learn about LGTBQ history from the Roman Empire to 2016. Includes three possible extension activities as well.
Loving Families - PFLAG - Support and acceptance is critical to the well-being of the LGBTQ community! Find guides for parents and families of transgender and gender expansive people; parents and families of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer people; and all adults committed to making schools safer for youth.
Rainbow Book Lists - Created by the Rainbow Round Table of the American Library Association, this annual list curates quality books that have been published in the United States and Canada with significant and authentic LGBTQIA+ content for children from birth through 18 years of age.
Stonewall National Monument - National Park Service - The Stonewall Uprising on June 28, 2969 marks a milestone in the LGBTQ civil rights movement. Explore online resources on the history of Stonewall, other significant places of LGBTQ heritage, the living monument in Christopher Park, and interdisciplinary units for elementary, middle, and high school students.
The Trevor Project - National crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ persons under 25 years of age. Other resources include the Academy-Award winning short film TREVOR; the Lifeguard Workshop which provides free educational materials for middle and high school teachers; and the Trevor Support Center which creates a safe online place for LGBTQ youth and their allies to learn about sexual orientation and gender identity.
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