Hey, Bunny Friends!

February is the month of hearts and hugs – a time to share love, laughter, and a touch of sweetness with those we cherish most. As I sip my cup of very hot cocoa and cuddle under the bunny blanket my daughter’s gave me, I can't help but think of all the joyful ways we can make this month special for the children we love.

This month’s newsletter is overflowing with cozy creativity and tender moments to share. These ideas are designed to help you connect, laugh, and make memories that will keep everyone’s hearts warm – even when the weather isn’t!

As always, my goal is to spark your imagination so you can fill February with moments of love and wonder. I hope some of these ideas help you to make this month unforgettable for those little ones we adore so much! With love and big bear hugs, Mary

FEBRUARY 1•ICE CREAM BREAKFAST

If the kids in your life need a fanciful reminder that sometimes it’s okay to bend the rules, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day is a must. Although I only heard about this “holiday” recently, we started making this a part of special occasions at our house decades ago when our own children were little. There’s plenty of ways to enjoy a delicious start to your day while making sweet memories. I think you’ll find the day can be much more than an excuse to indulge – it's a celebration of creativity, joy, and breaking the rules in the best possible way. It was an unforgettable experience that our kids loved.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE EAT ICE CREAM FOR BREAKFAST DAY

1. ICE CREAM BUFFET
   Transform breakfast into an event by creating an ice cream buffet. Offer waffle cones, crepes, or pancakes as bases, and provide toppings like granola, fresh fruit, nuts, and syrups. Let the kids unleash their inner chefs to design breakfast masterpieces. If you want to level it up a notch, make it an “Around the World Ice Cream Tour.” Set up stations with traditional breakfast-inspired ice cream flavors from different countries – Japanese green tea ice cream, Italian espresso gelato, Indian cardamom kulfi, and Mexican horchata ice cream. Create "passports" for kids to stamp as they taste each flavor.

2. ICE CREAM ART GALLERY
   Provide various ice cream flavors and toppings for kids to create "sculptures" and "paintings" on plates. Document their edible masterpieces with photos before enjoying them, and host a virtual gallery showing of their creations.

3. PAJAMA ICE CREAM PARTY
   Stay in your pajamas and create an ice cream-themed morning celebration. Include games like ice cream trivia or a competition to see who can build the tallest sundae without it toppling. Don’t forget the “Breakfast Bowl Challenge.” Have kids compete to create the most innovative breakfast-ice-cream fusion bowl. Award prizes for categories like "Most Nutritious," "Most Creative," and "Weirdest Combination."

4. ICE CREAM CHEMISTRY LAB
   Transform your kitchen into a science lab where kids create their own ice cream flavors using an ice cream maker, or liquid nitrogen or the bag-shaking method. Discuss the science of freezing points and emulsions while making wild flavor combinations like "Morning Toast and Jam Ripple" or "Breakfast Cereal Swirl." Take the opportunity to try unconventional ice cream flavors such as bacon-maple, avocado, or lavendar. Simple works too! Our grandkids’ favorite is a scoop in the bowl, covered in rice krispies, sprayed with too much whipped cream, and a cherry on top.

5. A KINDNESS SCOOP
   Celebrate by “paying it forward. Buy a fun flavor of ice cream and deliver it to someone whose day you want to make sweeter. It’s a delicious way to spread joy beyond your breakfast table. (I’m thinking Culver’s).

FEBRUARY 2 • GROUNDHOG DAY

Every February 2nd, all eyes turn to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where Phil, the world's most famous groundhog, makes his annual weather prediction. This odd tradition dates back to 1887, though its roots lie in the ancient Christian celebration of Candlemas and German folklore. The basic premise is simple: if Phil sees his shadow and returns to his burrow, we're in for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn't, spring will arrive early. Although Phil's success rate is around 39%, its charm and cultural significance have made it a strange and beloved American tradition. Groundhog Day offers a fun opportunity to blend science, culture, and imagination.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE GROUNDHOG DAY

1. GROUNDHOG BURROW CAKE
   Bake a cake and decorate it to resemble a groundhog burrow, complete with candy groundhogs popping out. Kids can help with the design and enjoy the tasty results.

2. GROUNDHOG DAY TIME LOOP CHALLENGE
   Inspired by the famous Bill Murray movie, set up a series of skills that kids must master in one day – like learning to play a simple song on the piano, perfecting a magic trick, or mastering an origami design. Document their progress throughout the day as they practice over and over and over.

3. PUPPET WEATHER STATION
   Create an elaborate shadow puppet theater where kids can make their own weather predictions using handmade puppets of various animals. The kids can even reenact the groundhog’s big moment. You can film their predictions and create a competition to see who can be more accurate than Phil over the next six weeks. Depending on their age, you could also use this as an opportunity to teach kids about meteorology by building a simple weather station with items like thermometers and rain gauges.

4. BUILD A GROUNDHOG BURROW
   Transform your basement or a room into a groundhog burrow complete with tunnel obstacles, shadow experiments with flashlights, and hibernation stations where kids learn about animal winter survival strategies through some hands-on fun. Remember, it’s always more fun if you spend a little time in the burrow too.

5. MATINEE: GROUNDHOG DAY
   If the kids are old enough, enjoy the classic Bill Murray film for a humorous take on the day. For younger kids, pair it with a cartoon about groundhogs or seasonal animals. Treats can include real groundhog food (e.g., lettuce, carrots, celery, berries, cherries, and apples).

FEBRUARY 3 • AMERICAN PAINTERS DAY

American Painters Day honors the rich legacy of our country’s painters who have captured landscapes, cultures, and emotions that define our nation. This day encourages appreciation for their work and inspires creativity in budding artists. The day celebrates both historical figures like Winslow Homer and Georgia O'Keeffe, and encourages new generations to pick up their brushes and explore artistic expression. Before you get started, you may want to pick some painters whose art will match your kids age, abilities, taste, and interests. Here are some of the best to choose from. By clicking HERE you will see twenty artists with a brief bio and samples of their work. By clicking on any painting, you will get more information.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE AMERICAN PAINTERS’ DAY

1. ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM DANCE PARTY
   Set up large painter’s canvas on the floor, put on some jazz music, and have kids create action paintings in the style of Jackson Pollock – but with a twist. They must dance to the music while painting, letting their movements guide their artistic expression. If that all sounds too messy, you could instead work together to create a mural inspired by American landscapes or cultural themes. Use large paper rolls or a chalkboard wall as your canvas.

2. “PAINT LIKE AN AMERICAN” WORKSHOP
   Set up a mini studio with paints and canvases, and guide kids to replicate styles of famous American painters like Jackson Pollock’s splatters or Mary Cassatt’s soft portraits. This is a great chance to share that link I gave you above with the bio and samples.

3. ART MUSEUM TOUR
   Take a field trip to see American art in person or explore museums online. Discuss the pieces you see and encourage kids to pick a favorite to recreate at home.

4. PAINT WITH NATURE
   Take kids foraging for natural materials to create their own paint brushes and pigments. Use berries, flowers, and leaves to make natural dyes, and create brushes from twigs, feathers, and grass. Then paint landscapes inspired by American artists like Thomas Cole or Albert Bierstadt. (If you live near me and your nature is covered in snow this time of year, take a shopping trip to pick up some inexpensive dried botanicals instead).

5. AMERICAN ARTISTS STORY TIME
   Share children’s books about American painters. The librarians love to help you find the books. For example, “Through Georgia’s Eyes” by Rachel Rodriguez is about O’Keeffe. Then you can pair the story with an art project inspired by the artist.

FEBRUARY 3 • ELMO’S BIRTHDAY

Elmo, the lovable red monster from Sesame Street, celebrates his birthday on February 3rd, even though he is forever three and a half years old. He’s known for his infectious laugh and endless curiosity. Elmo has been a staple in children’s lives for decades. His birthday is a fun opportunity to celebrate joy, kindness, and learning. Elmo has taught millions of children about friendship, imagination, and emotional intelligence.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE ELMO’S BIRTHDAY

1. MAKE ELMO CRAFTS
   Create Elmo-themed crafts like handprint art or paper plate faces. These simple projects are engaging and great keepsakes. Just search “Elmo crafts” online and you will be inundated with fabulous options for all ages!

2. BAKE ELMO COOKIES
   Use cookie cutters and red icing to create Elmo-shaped cookies. Add candy eyes and a big orange nose for authenticity. Kids will love decorating their edible Elmos.

3. THE MONSTER CHALLENGE GAME
   Design an active learning game where kids solve problems through movement-based activities, all narrated in Elmo's voice (you can come close with just a little practice). Incorporate challenges like "Elmo says cross this bridge made of pillows while balancing a book on your head" or "Help Elmo find his lost crayon by doing the monster shuffle."

4. ELMO DETECTIVE AGENCY
   Create an investigation bureau where kids solve mysteries using Elmo's problem-solving methods. Each case involves gathering clues, interviewing witnesses (stuffed animals voiced by you), and drawing conclusions.

5. HOST A RED-THEMED PARTY
   Decorate with all things red and serve red foods like strawberries, cherry juice, or red velvet cupcakes. Everyone wears red to honor Elmo’s iconic fur. Use some of the previous ideas for party fun.

FEBRUARY 14 • VALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day originated from ancient Roman festivals and Christian traditions. It has evolved into a global celebration filled with flowers, chocolates, and heartfelt gestures of love and affection. The tradition of sending valentine messages gained popularity in 18th-century England, with the first mass-produced cards appearing in the 1840s. While the holiday has become increasingly commercialized, its core message of expressing care and appreciation for others remains meaningful, especially when celebrated with children in creative ways. By focusing on kindness, creativity, and inclusion, you can make the holiday memorable for your little ones.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY

1. LOVE JAR
   Create a Valentine’s-themed love jar where kids can write what they love about their family on slips of paper. Share the notes during dinner for a touching moment.

2. LOVE LANGUAGES LABORATORY
   Set up stations where kids can explore different ways of showing they care:
   (a) through words (writing poems)
   (b) acts of service (helping with chores)
   (c) gifts (crafting)
   (d) quality time (playing games)
   (e) physical affection (safe hugs).
   They can create a "love language dossier" documenting their discoveries.

3. KINDNESS CARDS
   Encourage kids to make homemade cards for classmates, family members, or neighbors. Add a unique twist by focusing on compliments and kind wishes to promote positivity and inclusion.

4. BAKE LOVE TREATS
   Spend time baking heart-shaped cookies or cupcakes together. Decorate them with pink and red icing, and deliver them to loved ones or local charities.

5. LOVE SUPER HEROES ACADEMY
   Have kids design superhero alter egos based on different aspects of love and kindness – like "Captain Compassion" or "The Great Listener." Create origin stories, costumes, and special powers, then document their missions to spread love throughout the community.

FEBRUARY 17•PRESIDENTS’ DAY

President’s Day, evolved in thhe 1960’s from celebrating George Washington's birth on February 22nd to honoring all U.S. presidents. It’s a day to reflect on leadership, history, and the values that shape the nation.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE PRESIDENTS’ DAY

1. SECRET SERVICE TRAINING ACADEMY
   Create an elaborate obstacle course where children learn about presidential protection while developing problem-solving skills. Include code-name creation, safe route planning through a "city" made of cardboard, and diplomatic protection scenarios using stuffed animal "diplomats. Don’t forget their badge, weapon, and ID. They also might need a phone. For older kids, you could easily turn this into a rescue mission when the stuffed bear POTUS is kidnapped and they must follow clues to find him - getting instructions and demands from the terrorists all the while.

2. CREATE YOUR OWN "PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH"
   Encourage children to write and deliver a speech as if they were running for president. Focus on imaginative ideas and what they would do to help their community.

3. DESIGN A PRESIDENTIAL COIN OR BILL
   Have kids design their own coin or bill featuring their favorite historical figures. Use art supplies to make it colorful and imaginative. They could even use their own likeness if they aspire to run for office some day.

4. TAKE A VIRTUAL VISIT TO AN HISTORICAL LANDMARK
   Take a virtual tour of landmarks like Mount Vernon, the White House, or the Houston Space Center - and more! To see virtual tours of America’s greatest landmarks, click HERE

5. EXECUTIVE BRANCH KITCHEN
   Recreate historical White House recipes, with each child choosing a different president's favorite dish. Create a "State Dinner" where kids dress as international diplomats, practice table etiquette, and give speeches about their dishes' historical significance. This website is a treasure trove of White House kitchens, menus, and recipes through time. To explore it, click HERE

FEBRUARY 18•THUMB APPRECIATION

Thumb Appreciation Day is an unusual and delightful holiday dedicated to celebrating our thumbs and their incredible versatility. While it may sound silly, this day reminds us to appreciate the little things—literally—that make our lives easier.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THUMB APPRECIATION DAY

1. THUMB ART EXTRAVAGANZA
   Provide paints and paper for kids to create thumbprint art. They can make animals, flowers, or entire scenes using only their thumbs. If you need some inspiration, check out over 100 thumbprint picture ideas by clicking HERE

2. THUMB-WRESTLING TOURNAMENT
   Host a friendly thumb-wrestling contest. Teach children the rules and let them compete for the title of Thumb Champion. If you are unfamiliar with this kid’s favorite, here’s some background: “Thumb wrestling is a game where two players use their thumbs to simulate a fight, with the goal of pinning their opponent's thumb down. The game is often started by players saying "One, two, three, four, I declare a thumb war" while passing their thumbs over each other. The winner is the player who can hold their opponent's thumb down for the duration of the count.”

3. THUMB CHALLENGE
   Challenge kids to complete tasks without using their thumbs, like buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces. It’s a fun way to appreciate how much we rely on this tiny digit.

4. THUMB DIY PUPPETS
   Create thumb puppets using fabric, paper, and glue. Put on a puppet show with imaginative stories featuring their creations.

5. THUMB FACTS EXPLORATION
   Learn fun and fascinating facts about thumbs, such as their role in gripping and balance. Pair this with a simple anatomy lesson for a bit of science fun. Britannica Kids offers this nice little article with helpful illustrations, just click HERE

FEBRUARY 20 - LOVE YOUR PET DAY

Love Your Pet Day is a way to celebrate our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. This holiday acknowledges the special bond between humans and their animal companions, recognizing that pets aren't just animals – they're family members who make our lives better with their unconditional love.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE LOVE YOUR PET DAY

1. PAWS & PAINT ART STUDIO
   Create pet-inspired art using unusual techniques - painting with toy balls that pets have played with, making collages from old pet food bags, or creating "paw print" stamps from potatoes. Display the artwork in a gallery where pets are the critics, marking their favorite pieces with a sniff or tail wag.

2. ANIMAL TALK TRANSLATION ACADEMY
   Kids create their own pet communication systems, designing charts that match pet behaviors with imagined meanings. They can make picture books translating "pet language" to human language, write pet-to-pet text messages, or develop a pet sign language. End with kids performing as pet language interpreters at a mock United Nations of Pets assembly.

3. PET-TECTIVE MYSTERY GAME
   Set up an interactive mystery game where pets have "hidden" toys around the house. Kids follow paw print clues and solve pet-themed riddles to find them. You could have each discovery reveals a new fact about pet care or animal behavior, making it both fun and educational.

4. PET FOOD MASTER CHEF CHALLENGE
   Create a cooking competition where kids make pet treats from pet-safe ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and rolled oats. Children design "fancy" plating presentations and give their treats creative names like "Barking Bon-Bons" or "Purr-fect Pastries." They can even make mock cooking show videos presenting their creations to their pets. Great keepsake!

5. PAWSOME FASHION STUDIO
   Transform a space into a pet fashion design studio where kids create pet accessories from safe, comfortable materials. They can make bow ties from old shirts, bandanas from fabric scraps, or "formal wear" from paper. End with a hilarious pet fashion show where humans must crawl the runway alongside their dressed-up pets.

FEBRUARY 26 • TONGUE TWISTER DAY

Tongue Twister Day is a delightful celebration of the playful and perplexing art of twisting words into challenging verbal puzzles. Observed annually, it’s a time to test your kids’ linguistic agility while sharing laughs.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE TONGUE TWISTER DAY

1. ILLUSTRATE A TONGUE TWISTER
   Ask children to pick their favorite tongue twister and create an illustration to match it. For instance, "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers" could be drawn as a colorful garden scene.

2. CREATE YOUR OWN TONGUE TWISTERS
   Get creative by inventing new tongue twisters. Challenge children to come up with a sentence using as many similar-sounding words as possible. For example, "Tiny turtles tiptoe through tulip tunnels." Write them down and see who can say them fastest without stumbling.

3. TONGUE TWISTER CHALLENGE
   Organize a friendly competition where participants try to say a tongue twister three times quickly without mistakes. Make it fun by including prizes like stickers or small treats for everyone who participates. Check out “115 Best Tongue Twisters for Kids in 2025,” by clicking HERE

4. RECORD & SHARE
   Use a smartphone or tablet to record kids attempting tricky tongue twisters. Encourage them to share the funniest or most successful attempts with family members or friends. You can even edit the videos to make a funny compilation.

5. TONGUE TWISTER THEATER
   Turn tongue twisters into a theatrical performance. Have children act out scenes that incorporate their chosen phrases. For instance, "How much wood would a woodchuck chuck?" could feature an energetic woodchuck character. You could also turn this into a game of tongue twisted charades.

FEBRUARY 27 • POLAR BEAR DAY

Polar Bear Day is celebrated every year to honor these majestic Arctic creatures and raise awareness about their conservation. Polar bears are not only icons of the icy north but also indicators of the health of their ecosystem. This day sheds light on the challenges they face due to climate change and encourages actions to protect their habitat.

FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE POLAR BEAR DAY

1. POLAR BEAR-THEMED SNACKS
   Make snacks inspired by polar bears, like marshmallow polar bears or yogurt parfaits with "snow" made from coconut flakes. Incorporate a lesson on the polar bear’s diet and the challenges they face finding food.

2. ARCTIC HABITAT DIORAMA 

   I love dioramas! Build a miniature Arctic scene using recycled materials. Use cotton balls for snow, paper for icebergs, and craft a polar bear out of clay or paper.

3. POLAR BEAR FITNESS CHALLENGE
   Inspire kids to move like polar bears! Include activities like crawling on all fours, doing bear crawls, or mimicking a polar bear’s swim. This is a fun way to stay active while learning about how polar bears move in their environment.

4. ADOPT A POLAR BEAR
   Many organizations allow you to symbolically adopt a polar bear to support conservation efforts. Discuss the importance of habitat protection and involve kids in picking the adoption package. Take a peek at the adoption program offered by the World Wildlife Fund by clicking HERE

5. POLAR BEAR FACTS HUNT
   Create a scavenger hunt where children search for facts about polar bears. Hide clues around your home or yard with tidbits like "Polar bears have black skin under their white fur to absorb heat." Reward them with polar bear-themed treats or trinkets.

WISHING YOU LOVE