Mama, Be super excited about the Eclipse- It’s Contagious August 8, 2017 By Bekki Leave a Comment This content may contain affiliate links.Inside 3 Tips to Grab the Most out of the Ecplise (Or any other experience) “There were kids on the soccer fields honey.” The color drained from my face. Of course, I blew it again. Without fail, every year, without exception, I miss the critical sign-up dates for sports. I’m not talking 5-years of missed sports; I’m talking 20 years. Maybe it’s because I don’t wanna drive to and from practice on 3 different fields twice a week. Could it be that the thought of sitting wrapped in plastic and covered with 2 umbrellas so I don’t get soaked in the Pacific Northwest rain is not my idea of how I want to spend a Saturday? Most likely is that my “Dory mind” is too busy and I forget. But this deadline I can’t miss. The Big Eclipse is almost here! Sure, there are total eclipses happening in 2019, 2020, 2021 2024 and 2016 but, the path of this event will not happen right over our kids’ heads. The Total Eclipse of 2017 is nothing to “forget” or “overlook” “On Aug. 21, 2017, people across the United States will see the sun disappear behind the moon, turning daylight into twilight, causing the temperature drop rapidly and revealing massive streamers of light streaking through the sky around the silhouette of the moon. On that day, America will fall under the path of a total solar eclipse.” –Space.com Are you Ready? Nope, me neither, but there’s time if you act now. A Total Eclipse in 3, 2, 1 3. Learning So What’s a Solar Eclipse? I’m pretty sure Pumba from the Lion King would explain, “It’s when a really big bird flies slowly across the sun and blocks out all the light- Hakkuna Matata.” Yea, there’s more to it than that, Pumba. Eclipse Megamovie has a great overview for you and your kids, plus… there’s an interactive map where you can add your city, state, and zip and get a quick animation of what the eclipse will look like for you! Pro Tip- (Experience First.) Briefly, explain the eclipse to your kids and then wait. Don’t make them read 1,000 books or write a research paper ahead of time, just a brief explanation. Then, get ready and watch the big event together. You, mama, be super excited- it’s contagious. Then, after the “sun returns to the sky”. After the “sun returns to the sky”… 2. Recording So when the sky darkens and the temperature drops be ready to enjoy. But after the light returns and the safety glasses are destroyed, be ready to learn! Movies to watch: (Use your Movie Response sheets to turn any movie into a learning film!) Space Camp Hidden Figures Guardians of the Galaxy Star Trek Star Wars Power Rangers Armageddon (Older kids) Books to read Eclipse Moon The Martian (I had to get over my fear of the “F” word to enjoy this one. Definitely not a read aloud) Packets to complete with a pencil and fancy coloring pencils Free-Style writing. No rules! Using Cookies to Learn Moon Phases A Letter to Me– Let your kids write to their future selves about the eclipse! FREE Eclipse Book! Take pictures! Here are some pro tips. photo by Gabby Orcutt PSST- It’s not safe to look at the eclipse through a telescope, even with your eclipse glasses! 1. Safety Protect your kids’ eyes! This is not one of those paranoid warnings. Remember Syd from Toy Story? You know, that Bratty-Out-of-Control kid who burned bugs with a magnifying glass? Imagine that beam of light on the back of your Muchkin’s eye. The biggest issue with eclipse glasses is that everyone and their brother is selling them. Make sure they come from a NASA approved company. Read more here. Yes, I am having trouble finding them too, because like soccer sign-ups the cool moms beat me to the punch. But I haven’t given up. Think NASA certified. Check with your local library! Embrace the opportunity to study the heavens with your kids before, during and after rather than being the one who drives by the soccer field and hears your daughter say, “Look, mommy, those kids are playing soccer in the dark!” Print this free homeschool mom reminder. This post comes with a free printable reminder list to help keep your heart focused on the heart of homeschooling. I always have the hardest staying focused. This printable simplifies it! Here is a sneak preview… Download Your Free Printable Download the checklist. You’ll get the printable, plus join 9,000+ homeschool moms who receive my weekly parenting tips and ideas! Print. Any paper will do the trick, but card stock would be ideal. Place it on your refrigerator as a helpful reminder.