EXTRA Let's practice reading with holidays and commemorative dates!
New Year's Day
New Year's Day
New Year's Day is like a big birthday party for the whole world. It happens on the first day of a new year, on January 1st. Imagine it's like the world's special day to say goodbye to the old year and hello to the new one.
On the night before New Year's Day, there are parties and colorful fireworks in the sky. People count down the seconds until midnight, and everyone cheers and hugs each other. It's like a magical moment when everyone is excited and happy.
When the new year starts on January 1st, it's like a fresh start for everyone. People make promises called "resolutions". These are wishes to do better things in the new year, like learning new things or being kind to others.
Families and friends often have special meals together on New Year's Day. In some places, there are parades with big floats and music. People visit special places to celebrate the new year.
New Year's Day is a time when people all around the world come together to celebrate, have fun, and hope for good things in the coming year. It's like a big and happy family reunion for everyone on the planet!
Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day
Are you ready for a journey in the land of hearts and happiness? It's that time of year again, when love is in the air and the world gets all sweet. Welcome to Valentine's Day!
• Do you know the story of Valentine's Day?
A long time ago, there was a kind-hearted man named Valentine. He believed that love could make the world a better place. He started a tradition of sending little notes to people, telling them how special they were. And so, every year on February 14th, we celebrate his spirit of love and appreciation.
• How can you celebrate Valentine's Day? Well, think of it as a day to spread happiness like a sprinkle of fairy dust. You can create colorful cards and heartfelt messages for your friends and family..
And don't forget about sweets! Sharing treats like chocolates, cookies, and cupcakes is a great way to show your love. Remember, Valentine's Day isn't just about romantic love. It's about caring for everyone like your parents, siblings, friends, and even your pets!
May your day be filled with joy, giggles, and lots of heartwarming moments.
Happy Valentine's Day, young adventurers!
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras
What is Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras is a super fun party that happens once a year. It's also called "Fat Tuesday." It's a time when people wear cool costumes, dance, and have a big celebration. Mardi Gras is famous in New Orleans, but a lot of other places have parties like this too.
Why Do We Celebrate It? A long time ago, people wanted to have a big party before the Lent and then they created Mardi Gras which is a big and colorful party before the Lent starts.
Fun and Excitement At Mardi Gras, there are awesome parades with big floats that go down the street. These floats have people wearing funny masks and costumes, throwing beads, and toys to the crowd. There's happy music and dancing too!
Why Mardi Gras is Special? Mardi Gras is not just a party It brings people together. People in communities make special groups called "krewes." These groups plan and take part in the parade. Everyone joins in and has a great time. It's a friendly team having a colorful celebration.
Mardi Gras Everywhere! While Mardi Gras is famous in one place, other cities around the world also celebrate it. They put their own twist on the party with their customs and traditions. Mardi Gras is a super cool festival that brings happiness, colours, and dancing to people all over the world.
St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day
• What is St. Patrick's Day?
St. Patrick's Day is a special holiday celebrated on March 17th. It's a day to honor Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Even if you're not Irish, you can still join the festivities and have a great time!
• Wearing Green
On St. Patrick's Day, everyone wears green. It's like a rule! People say that wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, the Irish fairies.
• Parades and Festivals
Many places have parades and festivals on St. Patrick's Day. People dress in green, dance, and play music to celebrate. It's like a big party in honor of Ireland and its culture.
• Delicious Irish Food
On this day, people enjoy Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage. You can also try soda bread, it's a special type of bread made in Ireland.
• Rainbow Hunt
Why not go on a rainbow hunt? Try to find all the colors of the rainbow outside, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet!
• Spread Some Cheer
You can make St. Patrick's Day cards for your friends and family. Add some green and shamrocks to make them extra special.
Fools Day
Fools Day
Do you know about April Fools' Day?
It's a really fun day when people play funny tricks on each other. It happens on April 1st, and the goal is to make people laugh.
Imagine waking up on April 1st and finding a cushion on your chair that makes a silly noise when someone sits on it. Or you open your cereal box and a toy spider jumps out. These are the kinds of playful tricks on April Fools' Day.
But remember, the best jokes on this day don't hurt anyone's feelings or make them upset. It's all about having a good time and sharing a laugh with friends and family.
• Here are a few simple tricks you will like:
• Colorful Toothpaste: Add a little food coloring to someone's toothbrush. When they brush their teeth, it will turn a funny color for a short time.
• Fake Bug Alert: Put a fake bug that looks real on a friend's pillow or near their breakfast. Their reaction when they see it will be really funny!
• Mystery Remote Control: Use a TV remote to turn down the volume or change the channel when someone is watching TV. They will think the remote is acting strange!
Easter
Easter
Once Upon a Time, in a cozy village surrounded by hills, the people were super excited about Easter. The winter was ending, and spring was coming with the colors and life spirit. The village looked like a rainbow with all the decorations.
In this village lived a girl named Lily. She was famous because she was curious and really creative. Lily was decorating the eggs. She used tiny brushes and colorful paints to make the eggs really beautiful. She painted flowers, cute bunnies, and sunny places. Each egg had a story to tell.
The night before Easter, everyone gathered in the village square. There was a big tree, and that's where the Easter egg hunt happened. The kids were ready to search for the eggs.
Lily watched the hunt with a big smile. She didn't just paint the eggs, she put the spirit of Easter into each egg. The village’s celebration was about hope and the beauty of change.
Independence Day
Independence Day
Independence Day is like a super special day for a country. It's like the country's birthday when it became its own boss and didn't have to listen to another country anymore.
People on Independence Day do many fun things. They wave flags that have their country's colors, like red, white and blue. There are cool parades where people walk down the street with music and big colorful floats. It's like a big, and happy party in the town.
The most exciting part is when the sun goes down. That's when the sky lights up with colorful fireworks. It's a huge and colorful show in the sky that everyone watches with big smiles.
But it's not just about parties and fireworks. Independence Day is also a time to remember the brave people who helped the country to become free. People listen to the stories and watch shows about them.
Independence Day is a special day to remember the history and feel proud to be free. It's a happy day for everyone to enjoy together!
Children Day
Children Day
Have you heard of Children's Day?
It's a special day for kids to have a lot of fun. Children's Day is celebrated to show how important and awesome kids are. It's a day filled with happiness and laughter.
Think about waking up on Children's Day and discovering a small surprise on your bed. Maybe it's a cool toy or a yummy treat. That's the kind of thing that happens on Children's Day.
But remember, the best part is making everyone happy, without making anyone sad. Children's Day is about spreading joy and sharing smiles with friends and family.
Here are a few simple ways to enjoy the day:
• Storytime Fun: Pick a fun story to read or make up your own. Stories are like adventures that everyone can enjoy.
• Sweet Treats: Make or share delicious treats like cookies or candies with your friends. Sharing treats is a great way to celebrate.
• Colorful Crafts: Spend time creating colorful drawings or crafts. Sharing your artwork with others will make them happy.
Labor Day
Labor Day
Labor Day is a special day when we celebrate the hard work that people do. Just like how we have holidays for birthdays and other important events, we have a holiday to say "thank you" to all the people who work to make our country better.
Can you imagine yourself in a job when you grow up? You can be a teacher, a firefighter, a doctor, or even someone who makes delicious food in a restaurant.
On this day, people take a break from their usual work to relax and enjoy time with their families and friends. They have picnics, eat out or they watch parades to see cool things. It's a party where everyone has fun.
Labor Day started a long time ago because people wanted to make sure workers were treated fairly and nicely. They wanted to make sure that when people go to work, they're safe and paid well for what they do. So, we celebrate Labor Day to remember how important it is to be kind to the people who work hard for us.
Halloween
Halloween
Halloween Fun for Kids!
Hey, kids! Halloween is coming soon, and it's going to be a blast!
• Spooky but Not Scary: Halloween is on October 31st. It's a day when we talk about ghosts and witches, but don't worry, they're just make-believe.
• Trick or Treating Time: Wear your favorite costumes and go around your neighborhood saying "Trick or treat!" People will give you yummy candies.
• Awesome Costumes: You can be anything you like! Dress up as a superhero, a wizard, or even a silly banana. Use your imagination!
• Glowing Pumpkins: Have you ever seen pumpkins with faces? They're called jack-o'-lanterns. Carve them and put candles inside for a cool light.
• Spooky Houses: If you're feeling brave, visit houses with spooky stuff. They're like funny-scary and so much fun!
• Play Games: Have fun with your friends’ playing games like wrapping each other like mummies or trying to catch apples in a tub of water.
• Yummy Treats: Make snacks that look like spiders or ghosts. And guess what? They taste yummy too!
Get ready for a super fun Halloween night.
Dress up, grab your treat bag, and let's have a great time!
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day is a special holiday when we give thanks for all the good things in our lives. It's a time to be grateful for our family, friends, and the yummy food we have to eat.
It’s a big feast where everyone comes together to share a delicious meal. This meal usually includes a big turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other tasty treats. Families and friends gather around the table, talk, laugh, and enjoy the food together.
Thanksgiving Day is also a time to remember the story of the Pilgrims and Native Americans long ago. They helped each other and celebrated a good harvest, which means they had lots of food. This reminds us to be kind and helpful to others, just like they were.
People also watch parades on TV or even go to see them in person. These parades have big balloons, colorful floats, and sometimes even famous characters like Snoopy or Mickey Mouse. It's like a joyful show that makes everyone smile.
Thanksgiving is a day to say "thank you" for all the wonderful things in our lives and to spend time with the people we care about. It's a happy holiday filled with love, gratitude, and of course, delicious food!
Christmas
Christmas
The Magic Christmas Snowflake
In a little village, three friends named Lily, Max, and Mia loved Christmas. They heard about a special snowflake that could make wishes come true.
One day, they found a shiny snowflake. They showed it to a wise lady and said - "We want everyone to be happy in our village."
The wise lady smiled, touched the snowflake, and it started to shine. The village became warmer, and people started helping each other and smiling more.
The friends learned that being kind makes magic happen. They saw that when you share and care, everyone feels good.
On Christmas Eve, the village was full of happiness. Lily, Max, and Mia looked at the stars and wished for love and kindness everywhere.
Snow fell gently, and their wish felt like it was in each snowflake.
Every year, the village remembered the magic snowflake and how the friends' wish made things better. Christmas became a time of love and helping because of Lily, Max, and Mia.
Super Bowl
Super Bowl
A Super Wish in the Super Bowl game
In the city of Sunnyville, people were excited about the Super Bowl game. The Sunnyville Giants were playing against the Thunders, who were really good. But this year, people believe it will be different.
Leo, a young fan, loved football more than all. He wished so much for the Giants to win. One night, he looked out of his window at the bright city lights and made a wish.
The Super Bowl Day came, and the stadium was full of fans. Leo was there with his family, feeling excited. The game started, and it was hard. The Thunders were scoring points easily, but the Giants didn't give up.
The Giants became stronger. The fans' cheers made them feel brave.
The Giants' quarterback made a Touchdown and the stadium went crazy because they won!
Leo could not believe his wish came true. Leo smiled and knew that the Super Bowl was not just football.
It was about hope and teamwork.
World Cup
World Cup
The Awesome World Cup!
Hey, guys! have you ever heard of the FIFA World Cup?
It's like the biggest soccer event that happens every four years!
Teams from all over the world join this exciting soccer tournament to win the special World Cup trophy. It's like a big soccer playground where teams show their best skills.
People from everywhere come to cheer for their favorite teams and wear fun jerseys. The tournament lasts about a month, and teams play matches to see who is the best.
What's super cool is that the World Cup brings together players from different countries. Some are known for their fast moves, and others for strong defense.
You possibly heard of soccer superstars, they are like the heroes of the field!
The first World Cup was in 1930, and it's bigger since then. They have it in different countries, so it's like a soccer adventure around the world.
Get ready to cheer and enjoy the FIFA World Cup, it’s a fun celebration of soccer, teamwork, and cool tricks!
EXTRA Let's practice reading with attractions!
The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a big statue on an island in New York Harbor. It shows freedom and how people can make choices. It is very tall, 305 feet. France gave it to the United States in 1886. The statue is of a lady holding a bright light and a special paper with a date on it. She has a shiny crown on her head. This statue is a sign of hope and welcomes people from other countries to come to America. It is important because it shows that everyone can have a good life and that people in the US care about working together and being free.
Big Ben
Big Ben is a giant clock in London, England, known for its loud chimes. It's part of the tall Elizabeth Tower, standing near the Houses of Parliament. Built in 1859, Big Ben has become a symbol of the city. Its hourly chimes resonate across London. Many think Big Ben is the tower's name, but it's the huge bell inside. The tower was named the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. Big Ben's timeless presence represents the heart of London, connecting history, government and everyday life with its sound.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is a famous mountain in South Dakota, USA, known for its massive sculptures. Carved into the rock are the faces of four US presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Created between 1927 and 1941, it's a symbol of American history and leadership. The sculptures represent important qualities like freedom, democracy, and progress. Mount Rushmore is a popular national monument, attracting many visitors who admire its impressive artistry and significance. It's a remarkable tribute to these leaders.
CN Tower
The CN Tower is an iconic landmark in Toronto, Canada. Standing tall at 1,815 feet, it held the record for the world's tallest free-standing structure for over three decades. Built in 1976, it's renowned for its unique design and important role in telecommunications. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks. The tower's Glass Floor and Edge Walk offer thrilling experiences for the adventurous. An engineering marvel, the CN Tower is a symbol of Toronto's modernity and a beloved part of the city's skyline.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building, located in New York City, is a towering skyscraper that captures the city's essence. Rising 1,454 feet high, it held the title of the world's tallest building for decades. Constructed during the Great Depression in 1931, it's an architectural masterpiece and an emblem of resilience. Its Art Deco style and vibrant lights have made it an iconic symbol of NYC. Visitors can ascend to its observatories for panoramic views. The Empire State Building is a cherished landmark, representing the city's innovation, ambition, and enduring spirit.
London Eye
The London Eye, located on the South Bank of the River Thames, is a prominent giant Ferris wheel offering captivating views of London. Built in 2000 to mark the new millennium, it stands 443 feet tall. This modern landmark features glass capsules that slowly rotate, providing visitors with stunning panoramas of the city's skyline, including landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. The London Eye became an iconic symbol of the city and a popular attraction, inviting locals and tourists to experience London's beauty from a unique perspective.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, located in San Francisco, California, is an iconic suspension bridge renowned for its vibrant red color and striking design. Completed in 1937, it spans 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, connecting the city to Marin County. The bridge's Art Deco architecture and colossal towers make it a symbol of engineering excellence and the city's spirit. Its beauty against the backdrop of the bay and the city's hills attracts millions of visitors annually. The Golden Gate Bridge is an emblem of San Francisco's identity.
Sidney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, located in Sydney, Australia, is a world-famous architectural masterpiece. Completed in 1973, its distinctive design has made it an iconic symbol of the city and modern architecture. The Opera House hosts a variety of performing arts events and is known for its acoustics. Situated on Sydney Harbor, it offers breathtaking views. The building's structures are a testament to innovative engineering. The Sydney Opera House is not only a cultural hub but also a global landmark, representing Australia's artistic vibrancy and creative spirit.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, located in the state of Arizona, USA, is a colossal natural wonder known for its breathtaking beauty and immense scale. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its intricate layers of rock tell a geological story. The canyon stretches about 277 miles in length, up to 18 miles in width, and reaches depths of over a mile. Its vastness and vibrant colors draw millions of visitors each year, offering hiking, sightseeing, and a connection to Earth's ancient history. The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England and it’s a mystery. Built around 2500 BCE, it consists of massive stone circles and lintels. The purpose of its construction is still debated, with theories from religious rituals to astronomical observatory. The arrangement is aligned with celestial events. The monument's creation required high engineering and significant cultural importance. Stonehenge's iconic silhouette against the English countryside has made it a global symbol of ancient history and human ingenuity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it continues to captivate visitors.
Central Park
The Statue of Liberty is a large monument located in the United States, on Liberty Island in Manhattan, New York. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The statue is an icon that symbolizes freedom, democracy, and hope for the American people. The monument represents the Roman goddess of liberty: “Libertas”. She holds a torch in her right hand (which is raised), and in her left she holds the Declaration of Independence of the United States with the date of the country’s independence written in Roman numerals: July 4, 1776.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a super famous tower in Paris, France. It's really tall and has an iron structure. Built in 1889, it was made for a special event called the World's Fair. People from around the world come to see it. You can go up the tower and get amazing views of the city. It's like a symbol of Paris and France, and it's known for its unique design. The Eiffel Tower is a special place that shows how creative people can make incredible things that everyone can enjoy and remember.
Times Square
Times Square is a super bright and bustling spot in New York City. It's known for its huge flashy adver- tisements and screens that light up the night sky. People from all over the world visit Times Square because it's so lively. There are theaters where you can watch famous Broadway shows, and there's always a lot happening with street performers and events. It's like a non-stop party with all the lights, music, and excitement. Times Square is a symbol of the city's energy and a place where people gather to celebrate and have a great time, day or night.
Colosseum
The Colosseum is a really old and huge amphitheater in Rome, Italy. It was built around 70-80 AD. People back then used it to watch exciting shows and battles, like gladiator fights. It's a round building with many seats, and it could fit around 50,000 people! The Colosseum is made of stone and is an amazing piece of ancient architecture. Even though parts of it are broken now, it's still an important symbol of Rome and its history. People visit to see where these incredible events happened a long time ago and to learn about the past.
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is a significant building in Washington, D.C. It's where the leaders of the country make important decisions. Shaped like a dome, it's very recognizable. The Capitol has a big dome on top that you can see from far away. Inside, there are grand rooms where senators and representatives meet to talk about laws. The president is also inaugurated there. Built in the 1800s, it's full of history and important events. The United States Capitol represents the country's government and is a place where democracy happens, making it a symbol of America's ideals.
Tower Bridge
The Tower Bridge is a famous bridge in London, England. It's special because it can open up in the middle to let big boats pass through on the River Thames. Built in 1894, its towers and suspended parts are unique. People often mistake it for the London Bridge, but it's a separate and impressive structure. Tourists love to watch it open and close. You can also walk on the high-level walkways to see amazing views of the city. The Tower Bridge is not just a crossing; it's a functional work of art that adds charm to the London skyline.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a stunning natural wonder on the border of the United States and Canada. It's made up of three big waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Water rushes down with incredible force and creates a breathtaking sight. People come from all around the world to see its beauty. You can take boat tours to get really close to the falls and feel the mist on your face. The power of the falls is amazing and they've been a popular destination for a very long time, reminding us of nature's inspiring beauty.
Christ Redeemer
Christ the Redeemer is a famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It stands on a tall hill and overlooks the city. The statue has outstretched arms and is a symbol of Christianity. It was built in the 1930s and is made of stone. Christ the Redeemer is really big, around 98 feet tall. Many people visit to see the statue up close and also enjoy the amazing view of Rio de Janeiro from the hill. It's not just a religious symbol, it's also an iconic landmark that represents the city and its culture.
Red phones of the United Kingdom
Red phones of the United Kingdom are one of the symbols of British culture. They were created by a famous architect in the 1920s, and became popular throughout the country. They had the red color to be easily seen, and a crown to represent the monarchy. They were considered a design icon, but they lost space with the emergence of cell phones. Some still exist as part of the history and heritage of the United Kingdom.