simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Black History

Celebrating Black Excellence: 10 Movies for Kids Ages 8 and up during Black History Month

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and stories of inspiring black individuals. Movies have the power to educate and inspire young minds, and in this blog post, we present 10 kid-friendly films suitable for ages 8 and up, featuring remarkable black characters. These films not only entertain but also encourage kids to learn about the rich history and diverse experiences of the black community.

Hidden Figures (2016):

-Based on a true story, “Hidden Figures” highlights the incredible contributions of three black female mathematicians, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, during NASA’s early years. This empowering film sheds light on their crucial role in launching astronaut John Glenn into orbit and challenges stereotypes about women in STEM fields.

Akeelah and the Bee (2006):

-Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl with a gift for spelling, competes in the National Spelling Bee against all odds. This heartwarming drama promotes the importance of education, hard work, and community support, while also showcasing the resilience of a young black girl pursuing her dreams.

The Wiz (1978):

-An urban adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz” is a vibrant and musical journey through the Land of Oz. Dorothy, played by Diana Ross, encounters an array of characters, teaching valuable lessons about self-discovery, friendship, and believing in oneself.

Remember the Titans (2000):

-Based on a true story, this inspiring sports drama follows a newly appointed African American head coach, Herman Boone, as he tries to integrate a high school football team in Virginia. The film emphasizes teamwork, unity, and overcoming racial prejudice.

Queen of Katwe (2016):

-Based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the slums of Uganda who becomes a chess prodigy, this film highlights the transformative power of education and perseverance. Phiona’s journey encourages children to dream big, no matter their background.

Annie (2014):

-A modern adaptation of the classic musical, “Annie” features Quvenzhané Wallis as the lovable and spirited orphan. The film follows her adventures as she captures the heart of a wealthy businessman while spreading joy and positivity.

The Karate Kid (2010):

-In this updated version of the classic, Jaden Smith stars as Dre, a young boy who moves to China and learns kung fu from Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan. The film explores themes of discipline, friendship, and the power of resilience.

Cool Runnings (1993):

-Released in 1993, “Cool Runnings” tells the true story of the Jamaican bobsled team’s pursuit of Olympic glory. Led by sprinter Derice Bannock, the film follows their humorous and inspiring journey, defying stereotypes and celebrating the resilience of the human spirit against the icy challenges of competitive bobsledding.

Ruby Bridges (1998): 

-This film chronicles the inspiring true story of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend an all-white elementary school in the 1960s. It serves as an eye-opener for young viewers about the struggles and triumphs during the Civil Rights Movement.

Soul (2020):

-Pixar’s “Soul” introduces Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher, and aspiring jazz musician. The film takes viewers on a visually stunning journey that explores life’s purpose and the importance of finding joy in the little things. It features an authentic portrayal of a black protagonist and encourages self-discovery.

These 10 kid-friendly movies serve as a gateway for children to learn about black history, celebrate diversity, and be inspired by the remarkable stories of Black individuals. As we commemorate Black History Month, let’s use the power of cinema to instill important values and foster a sense of inclusivity and understanding in the next generation.

simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, DIY projects, family activity, hands-on learning, math

10 Fun Ways to Boost Your Kids’ Math Skills This Summer!

Summer is here, and it’s time to have fun while keeping your math skills sharp! Math is all around us, and with a little creativity, you can turn everyday activities into exciting opportunities to practice and improve your math abilities. So, let’s explore 10 fun ways to boost your math skills this summer and discover the joy of numbers!

  1. Math in the Kitchen: Cooking and baking are perfect for practicing math. Follow recipes, measure ingredients, and calculate cooking times. You’ll improve your fraction and measurement skills while enjoying delicious treats!
  2. Math Games: Challenge your family and friends to math games like Sudoku, chess, or card games. These activities help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning skills.
  3. Math in Nature: Take a nature walk and observe the math all around you. Count flowers, measure tree heights, or spot geometric shapes in the environment. Math is everywhere in nature!
  4. Math at the Store: Turn grocery shopping into a math adventure. Compare prices, calculate discounts, and estimate your total bill. Practice mental math and see how much money you can save!
  5. Math Movie Night: Watch movies or documentaries that feature math concepts. Films like “Hidden Figures” or “A Beautiful Mind” inspire curiosity about math and its real-world applications.
  6. Math Art: Combine your artistic side with math by creating geometric patterns, tessellations, or symmetrical artwork. Explore symmetry, angles, and shapes while expressing your creativity.
  7. Math Puzzles: Challenge yourself with math puzzles and riddles. Solve crosswords, Sudoku, or brain teasers to enhance your problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills.
  8. Math Journaling: Keep a math journal where you can jot down math problems, observations, or interesting patterns you encounter. Reflect on your thinking and track your progress over time.
  9. Math Online Resources: Explore math websites and apps that offer interactive games and exercises. Websites like Khan Academy or Math Playground provide engaging math activities suitable for your grade level.
  10. Math Volunteer: Consider volunteering for math-related activities in your community. Tutoring younger students or assisting in math camps not only helps others but also reinforces your own math skills.

Math doesn’t have to be boring! This summer, embrace the joy of numbers and boost your math skills through these fun activities. From cooking and nature walks to games and puzzles, there are endless opportunities to practice math in exciting ways. So, embark on a math-filled adventure, and watch your math skills soar to new heights! Have fun with these 10 ways to boost your kids’ math skills this summer.

simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, hands-on learning, life skills, money

10 Exciting Field Trips to Teach Kids About Money This Summer!

 Summer is the perfect time to have fun and learn valuable skills like managing money. Understanding how money works is essential for our future success. So, prepare for an adventure-packed summer with these ten fantastic field trips that will teach you all about money while having a blast!

  1. Bank Bonanza: Visit a local bank and discover the secrets of money management. Take a tour of the bank and learn about different bank accounts, such as savings and checking accounts. See how money is kept safe in vaults and learn about the importance of saving and budgeting.
  2.  Thrifty Thrift Shop: Head to a thrift shop and embark on a treasure hunt for great deals. Learn about the value of money by searching for unique items at affordable prices. You’ll have a blast understanding the importance of smart shopping and saving money.
  3.  Entrepreneurial Adventure: Become a young entrepreneur by setting up a business for a day. Whether it’s a lemonade stand, a bake sale, or a craft fair, selling your creations will teach you about pricing, budgeting, and making a profit. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your creativity!
  4.  Budget-Friendly Grocery Hunt: Accompany your family on a grocery shopping trip and take charge of finding the best deals. Look for discounts, compare prices, and use coupons to save money. This hands-on experience will teach you to make wise choices and stretch your budget.
  5.  Real-Life Math at the Farmers’ Market: Visit a local farmers’ market and learn the value of fresh produce. Talk to farmers, understand how they grow their crops, and discover how they set prices. Practice your math skills by calculating the cost of fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers.
  6.  Money-Smart Museum Tour: Explore a money-themed museum that showcases the history of currency and the importance of financial literacy. Engage with interactive exhibits, learn about different currencies worldwide, and understand how money has evolved.
  7.  Budgeting Picnic: Plan a budget-friendly picnic with your friends or family. Create a shopping list and calculate the costs of food, drinks, and picnic essentials. Learn to prioritize and decide based on your budget while enjoying a delightful outdoor meal.
  8.  Financial Literacy Library Adventure: Visit your local library and dive into books that teach financial literacy. Discover engaging stories, comics, and educational resources that explain money concepts in a fun and easy-to-understand way. Participate in library programs or workshops focused on money management. Teach Your Child About Money Through Play: 110+ Games/Activities, Tips, and Resources to Teach Kids Financial Literacy at an Early Age is a great resource.
  9.  Future Investor Simulation: Participate in an online investment simulation game. Learn about the stock market, research companies, and make virtual investments with pretend money. Track your progress and see how your decisions impact your portfolio. This exciting activity will introduce you to the world of investing.
  10.  Community Service for Financial Education: Volunteer for a local organization that promotes financial education in the community. Assist in organizing workshops or events that teach others about budgeting, saving, and managing money effectively. By giving back, you’ll reinforce your understanding of financial literacy.

This summer, combine adventure with learning as you explore these fun field trips to teach you valuable lessons about money. Each trip offers unique opportunities to develop money management skills, from visiting banks and thrift shops to becoming an entrepreneur and exploring financial literacy resources. So, grab your friends and family, embark on these exciting adventures, and become a savvy money master this summer!

The book below is available on Amazon.

simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Brain Power, read aloud, reading

Boosting Your Child’s Reading Skills: A Summer Guide

The summer season provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your child’s reading skills and foster a lifelong love for books. With school out and more free time available, engaging your child in enjoyable reading activities can be educational and entertaining. This article will explore effective strategies and practical tips to help improve your child’s reading abilities during the summer months.

  1. Create a Reading Routine: A consistent reading routine is critical to encouraging regular reading habits. Set aside a specific time each day for reading, whether in the morning, after lunch, or before bedtime. Consistency will help your child develop a sense of discipline and make reading a natural part of their daily routine.
  2. Visit the Local Library: Take advantage of your library’s summer reading programs and events. Libraries often organize reading challenges, storytimes, and workshops designed to keep children engaged with books during the summer break. Encourage your child to explore different genres and let them choose books that pique their interest.
  3. Set Reading Goals: Set achievable reading goals for your child, such as completing several books by the end of summer. This can motivate them and provide a sense of accomplishment. Break down larger goals into smaller milestones, and reward your child’s progress with praise, stickers, or small incentives to keep them motivated.
  4. Encourage Book Discussions: Engage your child in meaningful conversations about the books they are reading. Ask open-ended questions about the characters, plot, or their favorite story parts. This will improve their comprehension skills and promote critical thinking and analysis. Consider forming a small book club with your child and other friends or family members, where everyone can share their thoughts on a selected book.
  5. Incorporate Reading into Everyday Activities: Find creative ways to integrate reading into your child’s daily life. Encourage them to read recipes while cooking together, follow instructions for building a model or playing a board game, or even read signs and labels while on a family outing. Your child will see its practical importance and relevance by connecting reading to real-life situations.
  6. Explore Digital Resources: Utilize the vast array of digital resources to supplement your child’s reading experience. There are numerous educational websites, e-books, and interactive reading apps specifically designed to enhance reading skills. Look for platforms that offer a combination of engaging stories, comprehension exercises, and vocabulary-building activities to make learning enjoyable.
  7. Lead by Example: Children often mimic their parents’ behaviors, so ensure you are a reading role model. Let your child see you immersed in a book or share stories about the books you enjoyed as a child. Create a family reading time where everyone can independently sit together and read their favorite books. This shared experience will foster a love of reading within your child and strengthen family bonds.
  8. Engage in Multimodal Reading: Encourage your child to explore various reading formats, such as comics, graphic novels, newspapers, diy science experiment books, magazines, or audiobooks. These alternatives provide diverse reading experiences that cater to different interests and learning styles. Embrace their choices and guide them in selecting age-appropriate and engaging materials.
    Summer break offers a wonderful opportunity to boost your child’s reading skills while nurturing their imagination and curiosity. By incorporating these strategies into their daily routine, providing a supportive environment, and promoting reading as an enjoyable activity, you can help your child develop a lifelong passion for books and learning. Remember, reading is a gateway to knowledge, empathy, and personal growth, and the benefits will extend far beyond the summer months.
simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, DIY projects, family activity, field trips

10 Ways to Prevent Summer Learning Loss for Kids

Summer break is an exciting time for kids to relax, have fun, and explore new adventures. However, it’s important to remember that taking a break from school doesn’t mean we should take a break from learning altogether. Studies have shown that children can lose valuable knowledge and skills during the summer months if they don’t actively engage in learning activities. To help prevent summer learning loss, here are ten simple and enjoyable ways for kids to keep their minds sharp and active during the summer break.

Visit the Local Library:

    The library is a treasure trove of knowledge and adventure! Make it a habit to visit the library regularly. Explore a variety of books, magazines, and educational resources. Choose books that spark your interest and allow your imagination to soar. Reading improves vocabulary and comprehension skills and keeps your brain active and engaged.

    Create a Summer Reading List:

    Challenge yourself to read a certain number of books during the summer break. Make a list of interesting titles or ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your teacher. Set aside dedicated reading time daily to dive into different worlds and learn about new topics.

    Join a Summer Camp:

    Summer camps offer a fantastic opportunity to learn and have fun with other kids with similar interests. Look for camps focusing on subjects you enjoy, such as science, art, sports, or technology. These camps often provide hands-on activities and interactive experiences, making learning enjoyable and memorable.

    Embrace Educational Apps and Websites:

    Technology can be a helpful tool for learning during the summer. Explore educational apps and websites that offer interactive games and activities related to various subjects like math, science, and language arts. These resources make learning feel like play, allowing you to strengthen your skills while having fun.

    Keep a Journal:

    Maintaining a journal is a great way to document your summer experiences while improving writing skills. Write about daily adventures, vacations, thoughts, and ideas. Practice using new words, describing events, and expressing your emotions. You’ll become a better writer and have a wonderful keepsake to cherish in the future.

    Explore Science and Nature:

    The summer season provides numerous opportunities to explore the wonders of science and nature. Observe the plants, insects, and animals around you. Visit local parks, nature trails, or botanical gardens to learn about the environment. Conduct simple science experiments at home using household items, and see firsthand how science works around you.

    Plan Field Trips:

    Organize field trips with family and friends to museums, historical sites, or cultural events in your community. These outings expose you to new experiences and help you develop a broader world perspective. While having fun, you’ll also learn about history, art, culture, and other exciting topics.

    Start a Hobby:

    Use the summer break to explore a hobby that interests you. It could be playing a musical instrument, painting, cooking, gardening, or any other activity that sparks your creativity and curiosity. Hobbies provide opportunities for learning, problem-solving, and self-expression, helping you develop new skills and discover hidden talents.

    Play Educational Games:

    Engage with your family and friends in educational board games, puzzles, or brain-teasers. These games challenge your critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategizing abilities while having a blast. You can also create educational games or quiz competitions to share with others.

    Stay Curious and Ask Questions:

    One of the best ways to prevent summer learning loss is by staying curious and asking questions about the world around you. Be inquisitive and seek answers through books, the internet, or discussions with knowledgeable individuals. Remember, learning is a lifelong journey; every question you ask is an opportunity to expand your knowledge.

    Summer break should be a time of fun and relaxation, but that doesn’t mean we should neglect our intellectual growth. By incorporating these ten simple strategies into your summer routine, you can prevent learning loss and discover new passions and interests. Remember, learning can be enjoyable and exciting, so make the most of your summer by keeping your mind active and engaged.

    simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Books and Fun Activities, reading, STEM Projects for kids, summer activities for kids

    How to Keep Your Kids Entertained All Summer Long!

     Summer is here; with school out, it’s the perfect time to create lasting memories with your children. Keeping them entertained throughout the summer can be challenging, but fear not! We’ve covered you with exciting and fun-filled activities to keep your kids happy and engaged. From outdoor adventures to creative projects, this article will provide a range of ideas suitable for children of all ages. Get ready for an unforgettable summer!

    Explore the Great Outdoors:

    One of the best ways to entertain your kids during the summer is to explore the great outdoors. Plan family outings to nearby parks, beaches, or hiking trails. Encourage your children to appreciate nature by playing games like scavenger hunts or organizing picnics. Camping trips can also be a fantastic adventure where kids can learn basic survival skills, set up tents, and tell stories around the campfire. Nature provides a world of wonder and excitement for children to discover, so take advantage of the sunny weather and create memories in the great outdoors.

    Get Crafty and Creative:

    Unleash your children’s creativity by engaging them in various craft projects. Set up a dedicated art space in your home and stock it with supplies like paints, markers, colored paper, glue, and scissors. Encourage your kids to create artwork, build models, or even try their hand at DIY projects. Crafting not only enhances their imagination but also helps develop fine motor skills. You can even organize craft-themed parties or invite their friends for an afternoon of creativity and fun. Display their masterpieces proudly around the house or gift them to family and friends.

    Dive into the World of Books:

    Encourage your children to embark on a literary adventure by introducing them to the enchanting world of books. Set aside specific reading times each day, where you can join them and discuss their favorite characters and storylines. Take regular trips to the local library to explore new books and participate in reading programs. To make reading more interactive, you can create a cozy reading nook at home with comfortable cushions, blankets, and shelves filled with their favorite books. Reading expands their vocabulary and nurtures their imagination and critical thinking skills.

    Engage in Sports and Games:

    Keep your kids active and healthy by engaging them in sports and games. Set up a mini soccer field or basketball hoop in your backyard, or organize family tournaments for games like badminton or volleyball. Please encourage your children to learn new sports and practice their skills. Additionally, board and card games can be a great way to bond as a family while stimulating their strategic thinking. Puzzle-solving activities, such as crosswords or Sudoku, can also be enjoyable and help develop their problem-solving abilities. Remember, the goal is to have fun and stay active!

    Explore Science and Experiments:

    Foster your children’s curiosity by engaging them in exciting science experiments. Countless simple and safe experiments can be conducted at home using everyday household items. From creating a volcano eruption with baking soda and vinegar to making slime with glue and borax, these experiments will entertain and educate your kids. Encourage them to ask questions, observe, and record their findings. You can also visit science museums or attend science-themed workshops to explore more in-depth scientific concepts. Who knows, you might be inspiring the next generation of scientists!

    Entertaining your kids all summer doesn’t have to be daunting. By incorporating a mix of outdoor adventures, creative projects, reading, sports, and science experiments, you can provide them with a memorable and enriching summer experience.

    simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, hands-on learning, Interactive Activities, Interactive Activity for Students, Kids, Science

    Two Fun Family Friendly Holiday Experiments

    The holidays are around the corner and I have some family friendly holiday experiments

    These experiments will amaze your family. They use household materials and are quick and easy to do.

    Watch the video below to get step-by-step instructions on how to do the experiments.

    These activities come from my son’s YouTube channel, Corban’s Fun Learning Adventures. If you like the content please subscribe.

    Enjoy these fun family friendly holiday experiments!

    simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Science, STEM Projects for kids

    Magnetic Cereal Experiment | Exciting STEM Experiment for Cereal Eaters

    Try this exciting STEM experiment with your kids today! They will be amazed at what breakfast cereal can do! All you need is cereal, milk, and a spoon!

    Kids will observe magnetic cereal! The video below shows you how and why this works. It also shows you what types of cereal to use for the experiment to be successful.

    It is fascinating!

    The video comes from my son’s YouTube channel, Corban’s Fun Learning Adventures. Please subscribe if you like the fun activities on the channel.

    Have fun with this fun STEM experiment!

    simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Halloween, hands-on learning, Holiday, Interactive Activity for Students, Kids, Science, STEM Projects for kids

    Two Halloween and Fall STEM Activities for Kids 

    Halloween is my son’s second favorite time of the year. He likes to dress up and go to all the fall festivals in our area.

    We love to try various STEM projects at home. Every year we combine STEM and Halloween/Fall activities to make this time of year more festive.

    Today we have two Halloween/Fall STEM Activities for you. They are called Magic Potion and the Vomiting Pumpkin.

    Both of these activities involve chemical reactions.

    Below is a video showing you step-by-step how to do both science experiments.

    The video comes from my son’s YouTube channel, Corban’s Fun Learning Adventures. Please subscribe if you like the content.

    simplyoutrageousyouth Accelerated Fun Learning, Science, STEM Projects for kids

    Plasma Grape Experiment | Do This At Your Own Risk

    We love science experiments in our home. 

    Today I have a fun but risky experiment for you.

    It is called the Plasma Grape Experiment.


    This is what happens when you put a grape in the microwave.
    I encourage you watch the video below before you try it.
    There is an explanation of why this works in the video.
    Don’t try this if you have an old or new microwave.
    Do this experiment at your own risk.

    That’s all for today.
    Have a great day!
    Andrea