 February is Black History Month, and story time is just one of the many occasions when you can teach your kids about the accomplishments of black pioneers and trailblazers. Creating an encouraging environment for kid's to learn tolerance and diversity is crucial in making a positive impact for future generations. Reading is a great way for both children and parents to explore these complicated subjects in a comfortable environment together.
One of the many ways families can celebrate Black History Month is by sharing the literary works of Black authors and stories about Black role models within their home. This month (and every month), why not celebrate the achievements of incredible scientists, politicians, civil rights activists, artists, and other African-American mentors by including some of these inspiring and educational books as part of your families story time?
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Today’s activity was inspired by all of the paper hearts people are placing in their windows. We turned the activity into a really fun math game. Here’s how we did it. We cut out 100 paper hearts in a variety of colors (you can cut out as many as you want, just remember the number) Hide them all over your house and then ask your kids to find them. You can allow them to collect 2 at a time and place them on a big window. Once the kids feel like they found them all, count them. One idea is to write a number on each heart. Afterwards have a discussion about the importance of kindness and community during this time. Allow your kiddos to have the opportunity to arrange the hearts how ever they want on a window. Who knew kindness and math could be taught together? ❤️
Reading is a great way to connect with your kiddo. Do you have a favorite story? Try bringing your favorite characters to life. All you need is a book, paper, markers, and your imagination. You can take it a step further and dress up as your favorite characters for extra fun.  All you need is an animal picture or board book and plastic animals (I feel like every house has that random bin). This activity is great way to work on word recognition and matching. Children can do this on their own or with their parent. Ask your child to match a plastic animal with the animal in the book. You can add additional educational components by asking your child questions like "what's the name of the animal, can you tell me two facts about them and do you know where they're from?"
 Have a spare cardboard box? Now’s the time to transform it into your very own habitat. Add paper, crayons, items from around the house like stuffing and plastic animals and of course their outdoor treasures.
Often times the best toys come from the simplest supplies. Encourage imaginative play! Have your kiddos try sorting from biggest to smallest, rough and smooth, and more, the sky’s the limit!   All you’ll need are a few items you have around the house to create your new friends. This can include nature pieces, google eyes, paint, markers, etc.!
This is an opportunity to talk with your kids about family and friends they might be missing. Follow Up Discussion:
 This is a fun way to explore your backyard. Binoculars, magnifying glasses or a net are a great addition but not needed. For those of you doing “school at home” you could use this time as recess. Spring in Montana is full of new life, even right outside our own door. Provide your kiddo with a cardboard box to stash treasures they might find on their adventure. Kids can select their own items or you can use the scavenger hunt provided below. Visit this site to learn more https://montanakids.com/plants_and_animals/Animals/Index.htm 
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