Category Archives: Video

Activity, Books, Storyteller, Video

Earth Day 2023

Earth Day 2023:

Earth Day Stories:

Tumblebooks: (access via Learn75, no password required)

What happens when one small boy picks up one small piece of litter? He doesn’t know it, but his tiny act has big consequences. From the miniscule to the universal, What Matters sensitively explores nature’s connections and traces the ripple effects of one child’s good deed to show how we can all make a big difference.

You Are Stardust begins by introducing the idea that every tiny atom in our bodies came from a star that exploded long before we were born. From its opening pages, the book suggests that we are intimately connected to the natural world; it compares the way we learn to speak to the way baby birds learn to sing, and the growth of human bodies to the growth of forests. This innovative picture book aims to reintroduce children to their innate relationship with the world around them by sharing many of the surprising ways that we are all connected to the natural world.

Wild Ideas looks deep into the forests, skies and oceans to explore how animals solve problems. Whether it’s weaving a safe place to rest and reflect, blowing a fine net of bubbles to trap fish, or leaping boldly into a new situation, the animals featured (including the orangutan, humpback whale and gibbon) can teach us a lot about creative problem solving tools and strategies. Wild Ideas encourages an inquiry-based approach to learning, inviting readers to indulge their sense of wonder and curiosity by observing the natural world, engaging with big ideas and asking questions.

Articles  and Activity Ideas from CBC Kids:

Books, Event, Video

February 14th: Have a Heart Day 2023

This message is from the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada (FNCFCS) website:

“Have a Heart Day is a child and youth-led reconciliation campaign that brings together caring Canadians to help ensure First Nations children have the services they need to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and be proud of who they are.

Watch “End the Gap – Fair Funding For First Nations Schools”

Activity Ideas:

  • Spread the word through social media like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. Use the hashtag #HaveaHeartDay and/or #JourneeAyezUnCoeur.

Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.

Through activities like Have a Heart Day, we are creating a movement where the landscape of Canada is only one of honour and possibility for First Nations children.”

FNCFCS also shared this music video by N’we Jinan Artists “Important to Us”, written and performed by students at Pierre Elliot Trudeau School.

Their message is inspiring:

“No matter where you’re from,

let’s fill our home with colour and love.”

Teachers: More resources are available here

  • Borrow Spirit Bear books by Cindy Blackstock from your school or Siwal Si’wes Library.
  • Follow Cindy Blackstock on Twitter (Cindy Blackstock @cblackst) and/or F.N. Caring Society on Twitter(F.N. Caring Society @Caringsociety)
  • Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.
Activity, Books, Storyteller, Video

Earth Day 2022

Earth Day Stories:

Tumblebooks: (access via Learn75, no password required)

What happens when one small boy picks up one small piece of litter? He doesn’t know it, but his tiny act has big consequences. From the miniscule to the universal, What Matters sensitively explores nature’s connections and traces the ripple effects of one child’s good deed to show how we can all make a big difference.

You Are Stardust begins by introducing the idea that every tiny atom in our bodies came from a star that exploded long before we were born. From its opening pages, the book suggests that we are intimately connected to the natural world; it compares the way we learn to speak to the way baby birds learn to sing, and the growth of human bodies to the growth of forests. This innovative picture book aims to reintroduce children to their innate relationship with the world around them by sharing many of the surprising ways that we are all connected to the natural world.

Wild Ideas looks deep into the forests, skies and oceans to explore how animals solve problems. Whether it’s weaving a safe place to rest and reflect, blowing a fine net of bubbles to trap fish, or leaping boldly into a new situation, the animals featured (including the orangutan, humpback whale and gibbon) can teach us a lot about creative problem solving tools and strategies. Wild Ideas encourages an inquiry-based approach to learning, inviting readers to indulge their sense of wonder and curiosity by observing the natural world, engaging with big ideas and asking questions.

Articles  and Activity Ideas from CBC Kids:

Books, Event, Video

Have a Heart Day 2022

This message is from the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada (FNCFCS) website:

“Have a Heart Day is a child and youth-led reconciliation campaign that brings together caring Canadians to help ensure First Nations children have the services they need to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and be proud of who they are.

Watch “End the Gap – Fair Funding For First Nations Schools”

Activity Ideas:

  • Spread the word through social media like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. Use the hashtag #HaveaHeartDay and/or #JourneeAyezUnCoeur.

Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.

Through activities like Have a Heart Day, we are creating a movement where the landscape of Canada is only one of honour and possibility for First Nations children.”

FNCFCS also shared this music video by N’we Jinan Artists “Important to Us”, written and performed by students at Pierre Elliot Trudeau School.

Their message is inspiring:

“No matter where you’re from,

let’s fill our home with colour and love.”

Teachers: More resources are available here

  • Borrow Spirit Bear books by Cindy Blackstock from your school or Siwal Si’wes Library.
  • Follow Cindy Blackstock on Twitter (Cindy Blackstock @cblackst) and/or F.N. Caring Society on Twitter(F.N. Caring Society @Caringsociety)
  • Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.
Activity, Books, Storyteller, Video

Earth Day 2021

Earth Day Stories:

636809

Tumblebooks: (access via Learn75, no password required)

What happens when one small boy picks up one small piece of litter? He doesn’t know it, but his tiny act has big consequences. From the miniscule to the universal, What Matters sensitively explores nature’s connections and traces the ripple effects of one child’s good deed to show how we can all make a big difference.

You Are Stardust begins by introducing the idea that every tiny atom in our bodies came from a star that exploded long before we were born. From its opening pages, the book suggests that we are intimately connected to the natural world; it compares the way we learn to speak to the way baby birds learn to sing, and the growth of human bodies to the growth of forests. This innovative picture book aims to reintroduce children to their innate relationship with the world around them by sharing many of the surprising ways that we are all connected to the natural world.

Wild Ideas looks deep into the forests, skies and oceans to explore how animals solve problems. Whether it’s weaving a safe place to rest and reflect, blowing a fine net of bubbles to trap fish, or leaping boldly into a new situation, the animals featured (including the orangutan, humpback whale and gibbon) can teach us a lot about creative problem solving tools and strategies. Wild Ideas encourages an inquiry-based approach to learning, inviting readers to indulge their sense of wonder and curiosity by observing the natural world, engaging with big ideas and asking questions.

Articles  and Activity Ideas from CBC Kids:

Books, Event, Video

Have a Heart Day 2021

This message is from the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada (FNCFCS) website:

“Have a Heart Day is a child and youth-led reconciliation campaign that brings together caring Canadians to help ensure First Nations children have the services they need to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and be proud of who they are.

Watch “End the Gap – Fair Funding For First Nations Schools”

 

Activity Ideas:

  • Host a socially distanced Valentine’s Day party to raise awareness in your school or community. Choose a day leading up to Valentine’s Day that makes sense for your class or community. Click here for a link to a poster you can use.
  • Spread the word through social media like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. Use the hashtag #HaveaHeartDay and/or #JourneeAyezUnCoeur.

Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.

Through activities like Have a Heart Day, we are creating a movement where the landscape of Canada is only one of honour and possibility for First Nations children.”

FNCFCS also shared this music video by N’we Jinan Artists “Important to Us”, written and performed by students at Pierre Elliot Trudeau School.

Their message is inspiring:

“No matter where you’re from,

let’s fill our home with colour and love.”

Teachers: More resources are available here

  • Borrow Spirit Bear books by Cindy Blackstock from your school or Siwal Si’wes Library.
  • Follow Cindy Blackstock on Twitter (Cindy Blackstock @cblackst) and/or F.N. Caring Society on Twitter(F.N. Caring Society @Caringsociety)
  • Explore the Have a Heart Day website to download Have a Heart Day resources.
Activity, Storyteller, Video

Welcome to Kindergarten!

The MPSD StrongStart team has prepared a variety of fun and easy learning activities families can do at home.

Each of the activities is related to a Welcome to Kindergarten theme and several have links to short, engaging videos.

Have fun and see you in September!

Creative Exploration:

Healthy Choices:

Music and Movement:

Noticing Print:

Numeracy:

Playdough:

Science:

Social and Emotional Learning:

Talking and Reading Together:

Digital Resources, Event, Media, Video

National Indigenous History Month

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Local Kwantlen Elders: (Part 1 & 2)

Virtual Ways to Participate:

  • Fry Bread Friday Videos:
  • Government of Canada Learning Resources (English) (French)
    • Includes activity guides and posters
  • Canadian Encyclopedia Article (English) (French)

Educator Guides:

  • NIMMIWG –Their Voices Will Guide Us:  Student & Youth Engagement Guide (Early Learning – Gr.12) (p.1 to p. 19 for K to 5)
  • Walking Together: First Nations, Metis and Inuit Perspectives in Curriculum  The digital resource Walking Together: First Nations, Métis and Inuit Perspectives in Curriculum was designed to help teachers understand the holistic nature of First Nations, Métis and Inuit ways of knowing; to provide opportunity for Inuit, First Nations and Métis peoples to share their perspectives on topics important to them; and to demonstrate First Nations, Métis and Inuit perspectives in teaching and learning experiences.
  • The Secret Life of the North (CBC):How has the North been impacted by forces of colonization and why have many Canadians not known about the history, geography, and society of the Inuit? This episode explores the history and geography of the North; examines the distinct culture, language and politics of the Inuit; and recognizes the impacts of colonization on the Inuit.Possible teaching connections include Geography, History, Social Studies, Indigenous Studies, Civics, and Anthropology.
Activity, Lesson, Video

Art Class

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Here are some lessons, activities, and books about art that you might enjoy:

  1. LunchDoodles with Mo Willems!  Watch the episodes and doodle! Here are a few samples:
  • Episode 1: In his first LUNCH DOODLE, Mo welcomes you into his studio at home and guides you through drawing activities using one of his favorite characters as inspiration!

To download this episode’s activity page, click here

  • Episode 2: Mo invites you into his studio, doodles, and teaches you how to draw Elephant.

To download this episode’s activity page, click here.

  • Episode 3: Mo invites you into his studio, doodles, and teaches you how to draw Piggie.

To download this episode’s activity page, click here.

2. Draw Everyday with JJK: art lessons with author and illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka

3. Dav Pilkey at Home (via Scholastic): Drawing lessons, activities, videos and more!

4. Tumblebooks Art Stories:

(username: tumble735, password = books)

 

 

Activity, Books, Storyteller, Video

Earth Day 2020

Earth Day Stories:

636809

Tumblebooks: (username= tumble735, password = books)

What happens when one small boy picks up one small piece of litter? He doesn’t know it, but his tiny act has big consequences. From the miniscule to the universal, What Matters sensitively explores nature’s connections and traces the ripple effects of one child’s good deed to show how we can all make a big difference.

You Are Stardust begins by introducing the idea that every tiny atom in our bodies came from a star that exploded long before we were born. From its opening pages, the book suggests that we are intimately connected to the natural world; it compares the way we learn to speak to the way baby birds learn to sing, and the growth of human bodies to the growth of forests. This innovative picture book aims to reintroduce children to their innate relationship with the world around them by sharing many of the surprising ways that we are all connected to the natural world.

Wild Ideas looks deep into the forests, skies and oceans to explore how animals solve problems. Whether it’s weaving a safe place to rest and reflect, blowing a fine net of bubbles to trap fish, or leaping boldly into a new situation, the animals featured (including the orangutan, humpback whale and gibbon) can teach us a lot about creative problem solving tools and strategies. Wild Ideas encourages an inquiry-based approach to learning, inviting readers to indulge their sense of wonder and curiosity by observing the natural world, engaging with big ideas and asking questions.

Articles  and Activity Ideas from CBC Kids:

 

 

 

Activity, Storyteller, Video

Feelings

  1. Here is Todd Parr:
  • Reading the “Don’t Worry Book” to help us understand that feeling.  He’s got some great ideas for drawing and writing at the end too!

 

  • Sharing the “Things that Make You Feel Good” book idea:

Here is a link for you to make your own “Things That Make You Feel Good” book!

2. From Sesame Street:  Helping Children Manage Emotions

“You and your child can watch Abby Cadabby share the “calming down” strategies that work for her — from a great big self-hug to a deep, calming breath.

Another useful tool families can use at home is a sparkly glitter jar.

What Exactly is a Glitter Jar?

Just what it sounds like: a simple, sealed jar filled with water and brightly colored glitter. When you shake it, the glitter whirling around the inside of the jar represents how your child is feeling inside. Have her watch the glitter swirl and take deep belly breaths while the glitter slowly drifts to the bottom. When it finally settles, the two of you will be able to see through the clear water, symbolizing that your child has achieved a calmer state and giving you the opportunity to talk about the big feeling she was experiencing. When you do talk, embrace “feelings words” like angry, scared, frustrated, disappointed, and worried. Having a word to label the way they are feeling is an important first step for children in managing a big emotion.

Make Your Own

Glitter jars are easy to make and can be great fun for the whole family. Start with a plastic bottle or jar with a lid for each family member, and the possibilities to personalize them are endless!”

This activity is from Ready for School! A Parent’s Guide to Playful Learning for Children Ages 2 to 5.

3. For Educators: Essential Digital Citizenship Lessons (SEL focus)

  • Grade 3: The Power of Words  – What should you do when someone uses mean or hurtful language on the internet? Focus on social and emotional learning as you help students learn how to process their feelings when they see or read something online.

 

  • Grade 6: Digital Drama Unplugged – How can you de-escalate digital drama so it doesn’t go too far? Students can learn how digital drama develops and how to de-escalate contentious situations.

Source: Common Sense Media (free account required to access the complete lesson plans)

Video

Home Learning Resources: Curio

There are many digital resources being released free of charge. This week, we are featuring some spring nature videos published by Curio.  

We might not be able to go outside as much as we like, but these adventures might inspire you to look and listen to the nature in your own backyard.

Nature Mystery:

“The Case of the Quiet Diggers”

Nature Movement Song:

“Frogs”

Nature DIY ideas:

Daisy and the Gumboot Kids: Daisy the mouse loves nature! In each episode she guides children through the creation of a new and exciting nature craft. Daisy brings wonder and imagination to the craft table and encourages children to explore the world outside!

Daisy & The Gumboot Kids

 

 

Digital Resources, Video

Black History Month 2020

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“Black History Month is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about the many contributions Black Canadians have made to Canada. This year’s theme for Black History Month is “Canadians of African Descent: Going forward, guided by the past”. This was inspired by the theme of the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024).

Feet forward, head turned backward, the Sankofa bird reflects on the past to build a successful future.” (Government of Canada)

Viola Desmond: 

Additional Resources:

 

Activity, Books, Video

Family Fun this Summer

Here are some great books and activities about families.

The Family Book and colouring page:

Click on the photos below to open the printable version:

Dipnetting with Dad (look for this book in your school library!)

The Making of Dipnetting with Dad:

Teacher’s Guide 

Activities:

What Makes a Family?  Watch and listen to the song and try the activities from Wonderopolis below.

Read/listen to a Wonder-of-the-day:  “What Makes a Family?”  Try some of  the family activities (and look at a very cute photo of a meerkat family).

Event, Video

Read Aloud Challenge

Leave a comment

 

Why is reading aloud important?

 

Does your school have some favourite read alouds to share? Send us a list or some book cover photos and we will post them here! 

MPSD Favourite Read Aloud books:

Mr. Cole recommends….

Learn more about the importance of reading aloud or sign up for the 21 day read aloud challenge here: http://readaloud.org/#

Follow the challenge on Twitter to see what others are reading #21DayReadAloud

Digital Resources, Video

Media Literacy Week 2017

mlwlogo

Here is a sample video from the ‘Media Minute’ series – a unit of videos and lessons designed specifically for elementary students.

For Families:

Ideas for Families (Tips, Games, Videos, Tutorials)

For Teachers:

Ideas for Educators (Media Literacy Week)

All About Me (Career Education Resource) – Digital Literacy Lesson Plans

Use, Understand & Create: A Digital Literacy Framework for Canadian Schools (“Teachers can access digital literacy classroom resources aligned with curriculum outcomes set out by their province or territory.”)

Digital and Media Literacy Fundamentals

Media Literacy 101 (Media Minute Videos and Lessons)

MediaSmarts Lessons and Resources (Search by topic/grade)

 

Event, Video

Picture Book Month

November is Picture Book Month! 

Author Katie Davis produced this video with quotes from beloved and famous authors and illustrators all answering the same question;

“What is a picture book?”

For Students:

What is a picture book to you?  Do you have a favourite picture book?  Visit your school library to borrow picture books this month.

You might like these books for “Roc Your Mocs” Day in November:

moccasins3moccasins moccasins2  moccasins4

Calendar:

How the Calendar Works

“Each day, an author/illustrator, our Picture Book Month Champion, is listed. On that day he/she has an essay posted on the Picture Book Month website about the importance of picture books. Check back every day of November for a new essay.

Each day is also marked with a theme. Use these daily themes to plan story times, blog about your favorite picture books in that theme, or create themed displays.” (Source: Picture Book Month, Calendar)

For Teachers:

  • Picture Book Month Teacher’s Guide (Ideas for using picture books in ELA, Science, Math and Social Studies)
  • Adrienne Gear’s new units featuring picture books for Grades 2-7 ” We Are All Connected“

Why Picture Books are Important:

rukhsana-khan-book-coverRukhsana Khan

rob-scotton-book-coverRob Scotton

ame-dyckman-coverAme Dyckman

Activity, Video

Dot Day 2017

Make your mark this school year!  September 15th-ish is International Dot Day!  Join the celebration of creativity, courage and collaboration! Based on the story “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds, this is a great way to start the year by celebrating the creative talents of children.

Watch the videos below to see examples of students collaborating creatively and get inspired to create:

Two Libraries One Voice DOT Day Celebration

 Resources:

Clip Art Collection (by Peter H. Reynolds)

International Dot Day website: Get Inspired

Multi-language Dot Day Posters

Poster Gallery:  (many themes, including A Thinking Journey & Think Globally)

Sparking the Creative Spirit: Tips for Inspiring Writing, Creativity, Self-Expression and a Wonderful Journey

 

 

 

Digital Resources, Video

Everyone Can Learn!

Welcome back to school!  

You are a valued member of this learning community! 

It’s a great time of year to set goals for new learning challenges and adventures.  Watch the videos below for an introduction to the idea of using a ‘Growth Mindset’ as you learn new ideas this year.

What is a Growth Mindset?

Growth Mindset for Students (video series by ClassDojo.com)

Sesame Street Songs:

  • What I Am by will.i.am

 

Look for these Growth Mindset books at a school library near you:

  

Picture

Resources for Teachers/Parents:

Beautiful Oops!  Educator’s Guide & Project Ideas

Mindset Kit: “The Mindset Kit is a free set of online lessons and practices designed to help you teach and foster adaptive beliefs about learning.”

The Growth Mindset Coach: Recommended by Adrienne Gear as a Professional Development resource.  The messages, books and videos in this post are recommended in this book.

The Most Magnificent Thing: Teaching Guide

The Power of Believing that You Can Improve (Carol Dweck)