All of us have this definition of normal. With the holidays completed, there is this sense that we are going to return to normal. But, what is that? Really, what we are saying is that we are returning to that ordinary state of routine. For families with children, this means that we are returning to a school routine.
January is also a time when we reassess our school year goals and set some new goals as well. So, what are your goals for the remainder of winter and into spring? Have you though about adding some science activities? January is actually a great time to look at your science curriculum.
The homeschooling catalogs will be coming out soon. So, it is a great time to start thinking. But, there are other resources that come out during January. Here are some good ones to start your creative juices flowing:
Astronomy
Sky and Telescope has come out with their 2015 Observing Calendars and Information. There are other sites as well – the Sea and Sky has their Celestial Events Calendar out as well as Stargazing Tonight.
Science Fairs
It is time to think about those science fair projects (if you haven’t already started). The International Science and Engineering Fair is in May – and students are required to participate in qualifying fairs. You can find information about affiliated science fairs here. Many local fairs are in February – so if you haven’t found your dates – it is time to look.
Global Science Events
Every year there are a number of scientific and medical meetings held around the world. And while, they may not be directed toward you and your family personally, many of these meetings have auxiliary events. For example, the American Chemical Society which will be meeting in Denver in March and in Boston in August usually supports a science activity for families and school children as part of their meeting. Thus, looking to see if one of these events is coming to your area may inspire an activity or a lesson plan. You can find one listing of Science Events here.
Weather and Climate
In addition to astronomy, there is also sky watching as related to weather, clouds, climate, etc. Winter is a great time to look for the Aurora Borealis – you can find the forecast for viewing here. Of course there are a number of sites that follow weather – there is the NOAA.gov and Weather.com. These should provide you with lots of activities.
Check out the Calendar
Earth Science Week – has extended their celebration to the entire year. National Engineering Week is February 22-28, 2015 and information can be found here. Earth Day is April 22 and many professional societies have activities planned. Pi Day is March 14 and this year is special because of the year. (You might also search STEM activities – UCF is holding a STEM Day on Jan. 30, 2015, and STEM Saturdays are being held at Northern Illinois University. There are a host of other Colleges and Universities that are doing STEM outreach – so checking your local community college, or other higher learning institution may also provide you with inspiration.)
Finally, watch the museum and library calendars you never know what might turn up there.
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