Brilliant Mornings

A group of children from the history club "Artifact" travels to Arizona where they discover the layers of the Grand Canyon, visit the Navajo and Hopi people, hear an ancient legend and barely escape an angry elk.  Jonathan, one of the boys, learns a secret to overcome his trouble with running. Be sure to order our children's history magazine, ARTIFACT, at brilliant-mornings.com for related stories, activities, games, comics and more - all focused on highlights from HISTORY!  For authentic legends from Native Americans, this book is very helpful and rich:Voices of the Winds: Native American Legends, by Margot Edmonds, Ella Clark, Ella Elizabeth Clark

Who made the footprints in the clay? Archeologists on Calvert Island have made a discovery, and we enjoy an exciting story of a family traveling to North America to explain their findings.  Could Tuya be the mother of the indigenous nations of North America? Please visit our website, brilliant-mornings.com and sign up for our mailing list to receive the children's magazine, ARTIFACT; the first Volume is free for our listeners!  Also, follow us on Instagram @brilliantmornings to vote on whether this story should be made into a book! Join us for the next episodes which includes a road trip across America! This podcast was written and produced by Heidi Illian.  Music (all but intro) from ep. sound. Write to brilliantmornings@gmail.com for more information. 

The 2022 invasion of Ukraine came as a shock to much of the world - but not to certain experts, who closely watch Russia's triggers.  What does Russia seek above all else? What is its "special military operation" all about?  Find out some clues by listening to a captivating story of a baseball game - an analogy of Russia's military action in Ukraine which will help explain current events to the children in your family. With much to unpack, your family will be sure to have intriguing conversations after this episode! 

Playing a wild, hands-on game of football or singing along to well-known songs with a crowd as you watch your favorite drummer play, or gathering with family for clam bakes and bonfires as you dig your toes into the smooth sand of the New England beaches - do these things sound like what you or other young people today might do for fun?  Can you believe that they originated with the Native Americans hundreds and even thousands of years ago?  Today we get to go back in time, jumping into the early 1600's, before any permanent English settlements had been built.  We'll fly over the Eastern Coast of North America with a momma duck and imagine what the lives of the thriving indigenous peoples looked like; and we might just catch a glimpse of Squanto and Pocahontas when they were little!  Print out your free activity page from http://brilliant-mornings.com to use while listening to the podcast (scissors and glue will help too!). Find Ms. Stephanie and a wonderful Algonquin language story on video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac3nsmFQ2ok

The year 1600 is full of secrecy; as separatists in England begin to hold secret church meetings hiding from the Queen, that very Queen is holding secret meetings with the Ambassador of Morocco.  What will come of all this? From the tropical rainforest of the African Congo, to the great Kingdom of Benin, to present-day Morocco and England, join a migrating Cuckoo bird with a sweet tooth to discover some of the key players of this exciting time in history!  Intro and Outro Music by Matt GrajcarThank you to Ep. Sound for the following soundtracks:Gorilla-growl-3-SBA-30011747For the Love of EnglandSummer is OverHorse Gallop Towards 1In Front of UsCaught in the WavesES_Wind Storm 5 - SFX Producer 

Follow an adventurous bird and a mysterious sailor through a life-changing trip through Korea and Japan, in the year 1600.  Understanding the world of 1600 helps explain our world today!  Visit brilliant-mornings.com for our free printables and amazing resources for your home or school! 

Explore the world of 1600 - in Asia!  We begin this episode in India, travel to China, and will continue in Korea and Japan in Part 2. A swift bird becomes entangled in a risky agreement between an Indian princess and a mysterious Portuguese sailor.  Can she escape?  Visit Brilliant-mornings.com to download line drawings for you to paint or color while listening to the episode - as well as a map and resources!  

What was happening all over the world in the year 1600? From a lush lakeside in Kenya, through Egypt, Israel, and finally Germany, follow the migration of a pair of storks as they travel north to start a family; discover the geography, cultures, and historical figures they met along the way!Please visit http://brilliant-mornings.com for maps and resources to use WHILE listening to this fascinating episode!! 

Brazil, Cuba, and Poland - our special guests came to America from these beautiful lands.  With a love for their old countries, and a joy about the opportunities they have found in the United States, their stories teach us and give hope!  We are blessed with John Kano's original music which can be found at johnkano.com.  Check him out! 

Secret meetings in Philadelphia? What did that group of five men originally write as the Declaration of Independence?  Learn important parts of this Declaration through song - they reappear throughout history, in Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, and Dr. Martin Luther Jr.'s famous speech, "I Have a Dream". Why did the colonies want to leave England? What led to the Declaration of Independence? Did the Declaration lead to the Revolutionary War? Find out today, and enjoy wonderful music as we dive into motives behind the actions in history! As always, check out the primary sources that tell us what the Founding Fathers actually said! Sources:https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcripthttps://allthatsinteresting.com/who-wrote-the-declaration-of-independencehttps://www.varsitytutors.com/earlyamerica/freedom-documents/asked-jefferson-write-first-draft-declaration-independencehttps://www.ushistory.org/declaration/related/massacre.htmlhttps://www.ushistory.org/paine/commonsense/sense6.htm

Three teams of fathers and their children race the clock to set up their very own inventions on Mt. Washington!  Inspired by father-child teams from history, they create devices to help hikers!  We are celebrating fathers and father-figures this week in honor of Father's Day! Let Doc Susie Anderson inspire you - she  saved patients' limbs and climbed mountains of snow as an amazing midwest doctor:  https://www.coloradovirtuallibrary.org/digital-colorado/colorado-histories/20th-century/susan-anderson-mountain-doctor/What did Alexander Graham Bell do? Here's a short video: https://www.britannica.com/video/180119/Overview-invention-telephone-focus-work-Alexander-GrahamA father and son tinker together to make the first passenger trains in England: https://www.theschoolrun.com/homework-help/george-stephenson-and-the-development-of-the-railwayExtension activities: 1. Fathers/parents what skills do you have that you can pass on to your children?  Can you use those skills to help others?  Share your ideas with me on the Brilliant Mornings Instagram!2. Design an invention which will help others!  Draw it!  If possible, try to build one. =) Share your ideas with me on the Brilliant Mornings Instagram!

This Juneteenth, celebrate the inspiring woman Henrietta Wood, whose story was lost to descendants for over one hundred years.  We follow her dangerous and convoluted journey to freedom and learn how her endurance leads to victory!  CHALLENGE: FOR THOSE YOUNGER LISTENTERS, CAN YOU JUMP EVERY TIME YOU HEAR THE WORDS "FREE" OR "FREEDOM"? CHALLENGE: FOR ALL WHO COUNT...HOW MANY TIMES IS THE WORD "FREE" MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE? ANSWER @BRILLIANTMORNINGS ON INSTAGRAM FOR A POSSIBLE PRIZE! Episode Poem: "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" from Shaker, Why Don't You Sing? Copyright © 1983 by Maya Angelou. Used by permission of Random House, an imprint and division of Penguin Random House LLC. All rights reserved. (Special permission granted for educators teaching through audio during 2020-September 2021.)Our dynamic cast includes individuals who inspire the world on a daily basis!  Discover them below:Amber O'Neal Johnston (consultant and barbecue host) is a home educator, speaker, writer and consultant who inspires families around the world with her own journey in creating an inclusive, culturally-rich home education using the Charlotte Mason philosophy.  She can be found on at Heritagemom.com, or on Instagram @heritagemomblog where she shares her wisdom, encouragement, and a vast collection of resources.  We are so very grateful to Ms. Amber for her wisdom and participation in today's episode! Celebrated actress Mina Thomas (true words of Henrietta Wood; Maya Angelou's poem "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings")  currently graces the stage of Sight and Sound Theater in Branson, MO, where she has most recently played the role of Mary Magdalene in the show Jesus. While you plan your trip to the theater, view a recent interview here: https://www.facebook.com/sightsoundtheatresbranson/videos/932053714292274Damion Sanders, (Barbecue host) a gun violence survivor, lives to help the hurting heal & change worlds with words. His core belief is that freed people should free people. Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damionbsanders/Randy Mason, a husband, dad and hip-hop artist has a heart for the next generations.  Find his music and more information here: https://linktr.ee/randymasonmusicFollow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randymasonmusic/Sharon Chang, our narrator, recently made headlines as the first Black female partner in William Morris Endeavor's history! Check out her story here: https://variety.com/list_item/sharon-chang/ She has also brought her talent and passion for music as worship director to Pascack Bible Church for 30 years! (Thank you, Mrs. Chang, for being my first singing teacher!)Our cast also includes Timmy L., Micah I., and Bella I. Special Mention to our editors and consultants:1. Erika Alicea https://www.instagram.com/cmcityliving/2. Shaun McClin3. David Chang4. Natasha Sanchez Primary sources are priceless. Please check out these life-changing stories I found during the in-depth research stage of preparing for this episode:1. Henrietta Wood's story, in her own words! http://wcaleb.rice.edu/omeka/collections/show/92. Stories of former slaves in the Oklahoma/Texas region (in their own words): http://lcweb2.loc.gov/mss/m

Happy Mother's Day!  Listeners call in to talk about their mothers and we discover the mothers behind some of the world's most influential people!  Don't miss this celebration of mothers and share it with a friend today! Sources:https://www.encyclopedia.com/women/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/ortiz-de-dominguez-josefa-c-1768-1829

Grace, Josiah, and their entire group of friends from America stood speechless, watching a battle between French and Mexican soldiers unfold before their very eyes.  They had traveled to Mexico to experience a holiday called Cinco de Mayo and had met a friendly girl named Ashley who gave tours with her family.  Along the way, discover the identify of the hiding boy, the best Mexican meals, and what "Yo soy..." means!  Join us as we discover Spanish phrases, Mexican foods, and  stories from Mexico's history! The stories today center around the idea that even a lump of slimy clay can become a beautiful valued possession!  Persevere and and you'll have beauty and victory in life! Highlights for further study:Benito Juarez, Mexican PresidentPuebla, city in MexicoTelavera potteryMexican cuisine (tacos, tostadas, chalupas, tlayuda tostadas, sope, flautas, tamales, and much more!)*Challenge Question* at the end of the episode!!  Place your guess on the Brilliant Mornings Instagram, or Brilliantmornings@gmail.com and you may receive a reward!!!

A blissful spring nature walk, an Easter egg hunt, and a fall down a dangerous cliff - today the Poetry Kids group stays in Ireland and follows a poem's clues which guide them in finding the joys, sorrows, and meaning of the season!  Their Irish friends, Erin and Mr. O'Sullivan, join the children for an unforgettable adventure!  Follow along with our poem here:Helen Steiner RiceEaster ReflectionsWith OUR EYES we seeThe beauty of Easteras the earth awakens once more...With OUR EARS we hearThe birds sing sweetlyto tell us Spring again is here...With OUR HANDS we pickthe golden daffodilsand the fragrant hyacinths...But only with OUR HEARTScan we feel the MIRACLE of GOD'S LOVEwhich redeems all men...And only with OUR SOULcan we make our 'pilgrimage to God'and inherit His Easter Gift of ETERNAL LIFE.Extension Activities:1. Go on a nature walk! (Bring your nature journal...) Draw and paint the birds and flowers that you observe, native to your region!  Identify the colors of the parts of the birds (throat, breast, nape, crown, etc.) Also, count the petals on the flowers and find out if they followed the Fibonacci sequence. If you post on Instagram, tag @BrilliantMornings so that we can enjoy the beauty you have found! 2.  To discover more about the Fibonacci sequence, listen to "Tuesday - Finding Fibonacci" Season 1, Episode 7!3. For a look at  symbolism and analogies on the spiritual aspect of Easter, read Isaiah 53 in scripture (in the Old Testament)...can you find the lamb in this passage?4. Have you subscribed to Brilliant Mornings? Do you follow the Instagram account @BrilliantMornings?  Please be sure you do both so we can stay connected to you! You are always welcome to ask questions and contribute! Many of our listeners have been featured on our episodes, simply because they reached out, gave reviews, and contacted us! 

 “No!” Claire’s voice was firm. “In this letter," and here she shook the ancient-looking document high over her head, “My great-grandfather gave his cousins possession of his farm in Ireland for the next 90 years; then, he writes that the cousins must give it back to his children IF the children claim it by Saint Patrick’s Day of the 91st year. We’re in the 91st-first year and St. Patrick’s day is almost here!”  Join Claire, her family and friends on an unforgettable trip through Ireland as they experience its poetry, folk music, and stories of potato famine and St. Patrick.  Edward Lear's limericks you will hear in this episode: There was a Young Lady whose nose,    Was so long that it reached to her toes;    So she hired an Old Lady,    Whose conduct was steady,    To carry that wonderful nose.There was an Old Man with a beard,    Who said, "It is just as I feared! -    Two Owls and a Hen,    Four Larks and a Wren,    Have all built their nests in my beard!"There was an Old Man of Kilkenny,    Who never had more than a penny;    He spent all that money,    In onions and honey,    That wayward Old Man of Kilkenny.Take Me BackPoem by Heidi IllianOh God, I am a captive in slaveryWould you please bring me back to my familyI’m taking care of all these sheep, you see,But I want to fulfill my destinyGod I realize I’ve been selfish tooHurt other people; didn’t follow youBeen a slave to sin and humanity But you’ve set me free and I’m in your family  I love you now, more with every day, Body in chains, soul no longer astray,And now you say there’s a ship on it’s way,My escape is here and I don’t have to stay. You’ll take me back, you’ll take me back, I’m going home cause you’re taking me back.“I’ve seen a vision in my liberty,The Irish are begging and calling meDanger waits around every turnBut I must return for Christianity.” I’m going back to Ireland…I can’t stay silentThough they may get violent  I’m going back, God took me back, so there’s no turning back. Read St. Patrick's Autobiography Here: https://www.confessio.ie/etexts/confessio_english#Irish Blessing:May the road rise up to meet you.May the wind be always at your back.May the sun shine warm upon your face;the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,may God hold you in the palm of His hand.Opening Music: Lindsey Addonizio, and Sarah and Chris Buteux 

Celebrate love in languages from around the world as we learn about this holiday and the deeper meanings of love! Which types will we hear about in our messages to loved ones - storge, phileo, eros, or agape?Sources:1. The Four Loves, by C.S. Lewis2. https://www.history.com/news/6-surprising-facts-about-st-valentine

Join a tree-chopping experience to learn about how Abraham Lincoln grew up! Although he received little formal education, his upbringing and childhood experiences taught him honesty, perseverance, and a hunger for knowledge and truth. Today we will learn:A first introduction to logic Euclid’s influence on Lincoln’s systematic reasoningThe responsibilities of a lawyer (Interview)An overview of Abraham Lincoln’s LifeFamous quotes by Abraham Lincoln A Gettysburg Address song!How will you celebrate the ideas of freedom and truth on Abraham Lincoln’s birthday this year?Check out this book on Abraham Lincoln: https://www.amazon.com/Abraham-Lincoln-Ingri-dAulaire/dp/1893103234Special Extension Activities: 1. Based on your children’s developmental levels, discuss the following quotes: “In the course of my law reading I constantly came upon the word “demonstrate”. I thought at first that I understood its meaning, but soon became satisfied that I did not. I said to myself, What do I do when I demonstrate more than when I reason or prove? How does demonstration differ from any other proof? I consulted Webster’s Dictionary. They told of ‘certain proof,’ ‘proof beyond the possibility of doubt’; but I could form no idea of what sort of proof that was. I thought a great many things were proved beyond the possibility of doubt, without recourse to any such extraordinary process of reasoning as I understood demonstration to be. I consulted all the dictionaries and books of reference I could find, but with no better results. You might as well have defined blue to a blind man. At last I said,- Lincoln, you never can make a lawyer if you do not understand what demonstrate means; and I left my situation in Springfield, went home to my father’s house, and stayed there till I could give any proposition in the six books of Euclid at sight. I then found out what demonstrate means, and went back to my law studies.”— Abraham Lincoln (c.1863) “If A can prove, however conclusively, that he may, of right, enslave B — why may not B snatch the same argument, and prove equally, that he may enslave A?– You say A is white, and B is black. It is color, then; the lighter, having the right to enslave the darker? Take care. By this rule, you are to be slave to the first man you meet, with a fairer skin than your own. You do not mean color exactly?–You mean the whites are intellectually the superiors of the blacks, and, therefore have the right to enslave them? Take care again. By this rule, you are to be slave to the first man you meet, with an intellect superior to your own. But, say you, it is a question of interest; and, if you can make it your interest, you have the right to enslave another. Very well. And if he can make it his interest, he has the right to enslave you.”(https://www.nps.gov/liho/learn/historyculture/slavery.htm)2. Math Activities: Ages 3-6 - Draw several types of triangles on your board of choice and count their angles and sides. Draw some triangles with matching angles and side lengths and point that out!Ages 7-10+ - Draw triangles with various colorful markers. Use a protractor to find their angles!Add the angles in a triangle and discuss how they will always have a sum of 180. The study of geometry leads to the stu

"True courage takes sacrifice,” said Grace, after hearing the story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on a scavenger hunt through Washington, D.C. Will the children decide to use courage in their own lives to help others?Today, we join "B" - a young girl living in Montgomery, Alabama in the 1950's - to experience how her life changed when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led a bus boycott in her city! What impact did Dr. King have on the Civil Rights Movement in the United States? Be sure to enjoy the art by Jesse Wright when you follow @brilliantmornings on Instagram and DM us if you'd like the free activity sheets that go along with this lesson!

'Twas the night before Christmas....what surprises are in store for children across town as they await this special holiday? Extension activities:“A Visit from St Nicholas” BY CLEMENT CLARKE MOORE (portions of the poem) were read today. Focus on the vivid descriptions of St. Nicholas (or Santa Claus). Write a poem with imagery that describes someone interesting! 2. Listen to the Christmas carol “O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Phillips Brooks (1835-1893). Draw or paint your own scene of the manger!3. The following scriptures were read in this episode from the Bible: Luke 2:1-20 (NIV)Isaiah 9:2,6 (NIV)Micah 5:2 (ICB)Talk about why the themes of “bread” and “light” might be important in the Christmas story! 4. Research the Norse traditions of Yule and listen to our previous episode on Leif Erikson and the Vikings! 5. Listen to the “Thanksgiving” episode for a story about the Pilgrims! (One of the reasons they left England had to do with not wanting to celebrate Christmas!) Sources:https://www.history.com/topics/christmas/history-of-christmashttps://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43171/a-visit-from-st-nicholashttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Christmas

Grab your candles, donuts and latkes and join a Jewish family celebrate this ancient Feast of Lights! Throughout the evening, you will learn that your family can make a difference in the world if everyone works together! What was dedicated during the story of Hanukkah? How did Judah fight for what he thought was right? Materials:Dreidels, chocolate coins - play along with the characters in the story!Suggestions: Make Latkes (potato pancakes) and eat them along with applesauce! Literature Extension: Read the Poem "The Feast of Lights" by Emma Lazarus (author of "The New Colossus" which is written on the State of Liberty's pedestal). What does each line mean? Look at it as a riddle and put that thinking cap on!Kindle the taper like the steadfast starAblaze on evening's forehead o'er the earth,And add each night a lustre till afarAn eightfold splendor shine above thy hearth.Clash, Israel, the cymbals, touch the lyre,Blow the brass trumpet and the harsh-tongued horn;Chant psalms of victory till the heart takes fire,The Maccabean spirit leap new-born.Remember how from wintry dawn till night,Such songs were sung in Zion, when againOn the high altar flamed the sacred light,And, purified from every Syrian stain,The foam-white walls with golden shields were hung,With crowns and silken spoils, and at the shrine,Stood, midst their conqueror-tribe, five chieftains sprungFrom one heroic stock, one seed divine.Five branches grown from Mattathias' stem,The Blessed John, the Keen-Eyed Jonathan,Simon the fair, the Burst-of Spring, the Gem,Eleazar, Help of-God; o'er all his clanJudas the Lion-Prince, the Avenging Rod,Towered in warrior-beauty, uncrowned king,Armed with the breastplate and the sword of God,Whose praise is: "He received the perishing."They who had camped within the mountain-pass,Couched on the rock, and tented neath the sky,Who saw from Mizpah's heights the tangled grassChoke the wide Temple-courts, the altar lieDisfigured and polluted--who had flungTheir faces on the stones, and mourned aloudAnd rent their garments, wailing with one tongue,Crushed as a wind-swept bed of reeds is bowed,Even they by one voice fired, one heart of flame,Though broken reeds, had risen, and were men,They rushed upon the spoiler and o'ercame,Each arm for freedom had the strength of ten.Now is their mourning into dancing turned,Their sackcloth doffed for garments of delight,Week-long the festive torches shall be burned,Music and revelry wed day with night.Still ours the dance, the feast, the glorious Psalm,The mystic lights of emblem, and the Word.Where is our Judas? Where our five-branched palm?Where are the lion-warriors of the Lord?Clash, Israel, the cymbals, touch the lyre,Sound the brass trumpet and the harsh-tongued horn,Chant hymns of victory till the heart take fire,The Maccabean spirit leap new-born!

Hear the moving Thanksgiving story as it is intertwined with Squanto's life journey! Write the following words on a board to cross off when you hear them in the story!pumpkin piecrispy turkeyMayflowerbarley eelOceanussixty-six HollanddebateplaguebetrayFor younger children, find pictures of the following items to color when you hear them in the story (please email brilliantmornings@gmail.com for links to these resources already created): pumpkin piecrispy turkeychurchMayflowerbarley eelsixty-sixking Primary sources were carefully studied to find information for this podcast. We strive for accuracy and welcome any comments. The following resources were used:1. Of 'Plimoth Plantation': http://www.gutenberg.org/files/24950/24950-h/24950-h.htm, accessed 11/24/202. Kirkhneely.com3. https://www.history.com/topics/colonial-america/mayflower-compactHistorical Accuracy Notes:1. The words of Governor William Bradford come directly from his diaries, Of Plimoth Plantation.2. The stories of a youth falling into the ocean and a birth taking place aboard the Mayflower are true.3. The thoughts and conversations of Tisquantum have been creatively constructed by this author, since there is no written account of them available. 4. It seems that some historians only mention one trip which Tisquantum took to Spain and then England. However, there is a record of a trip which occurred before this, and it is outlined in this episode. (Kirkhneely.com)5. The years in Plymouth after the mostly peaceful existence during which this episode takes place were followed by many conflicts, including King Philip's War (1675-78). Many Native Americans view Thanksgiving Day as a Day of Mourning based on subsequent events, during which Native American tribes were hurt, betrayed, and even destroyed.

Why do we elect a President of the United States?Which nations before us voted? What is a representative democracy? Using the illustration of a neighborhood of feuding neighbors needing to unite, we learn in this episode about the formation of the Iroquois Confederacy and learn a bit about how Americans choose electors in our Presidential vote. Materials:Please have on hand a board on which to write a scoreboard for an election! This episode is meant to help explain the United States' Presidential Election. Use the concepts discussed to talk with your children about the Electoral College and how the results of this year's presidential election came about. View a map of the United States which shows the electoral votes of each state. You can print this map color-code it! For older children, read through the Constitution of the United States and find the section that specifies how to choose a president. Here are some interesting topics to note:1. The founding fathers did not trust a direct democracy; instead they created the Electoral College to try to keep fairness and a balance. Research this idea more!2. Interestingly, the Constitution calls for states to have electors, but does not mandate that all the people in our nation vote for president - this is not an inherent right of a citizen, according to the Constitution. States were given the responsibility of determining how the electoral votes would be decided. Our state laws do, indeed, today call for all of its citizens to vote and therefore decide for whom the electoral votes will be cast.

A Viking clashes two worlds (twice!) when he finds a new land, and when he brings home a new faith to his family. Hear the story of Leif Erikson and learn the basics of Viking poetry today! You will need:A globe or world mapGrapes and salmon to eat, if you wish! Extension: 1. We enjoyed this tale of Leif Erikson, based on historical accounts available: https://www.amazon.com/Leif-Lucky-Ingri-dAulaire/dp/0816695458/ref=sr_1_1?crid=356SBHY6IVWZN&dchild=1&keywords=leif+the+lucky+d%27aulaire&qid=1602260344&sprefix=Leif+the+Lucky%2Caps%2C151&sr=8-12. If Norse poetry suits your fancy, learn more with an expert at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsX70ZSJkOQThank you to Dr. Jackson Crawford for his information!

Why do we observe a national holiday on the first Monday of each September?Today, the Pizza and Poetry Group of friends will take a special trip through history to discover a wee little bit about James Watt’s steam engine, which gave power to factories and mines in the Industrial Revolution. In Europe and America, people streamed into the cities to work long hours in factories at tough jobs. Labor Day was created to celebrate workers across America. Sit back and enjoy the train ride today!

The Pizza and Poetry Club stop a robbery, learn how Germany moved into a prosperous season after WWII, share poetry, help a dying butterfly population and learn what it means to be an arrow shot into the future! It’s a full episode with an interview from Mr. Chris from Germany and some closing thoughts from the memoirs of Heinz Meyer. Enjoy music by Vivaldi (Italian); Bach and Beethoven. This week, spend time listening to music from German composers as you play and work - and discover which works are your favorites! Spend time thinking and talking about what skills you’ve inherited or learned from your parents and grandparents. Thank them, if possible! “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23

Spring - it’s a time of new beginnings. Today be prepared to hear the raw experiences from the memoirs of Heinz Meyer, my grandfather, who was a boy living in Germany during World War II. He eloquently recounts his stories from during and after the war - and interestingly he did an amazing job comparing the end of the war to spring! You will need:1. An orange and a pencil or pen to push through it, demonstrating the earth and its tilt on its axis. 2. A globe3. Math manipulatives - counters4. Optional Book: The Reason for the Seasons by Ellie Peterson Listening: Spring by Antonio Vivaldi (Listen throughout the week, and sing the words)Begin listening to musical selections by Bach, Beethoven and other German composers! Science topic: Why does the earth have seasons?

Today we begin exploring the seasons, with a collection of classic works, enjoying the concerto Spring by the Italian Vivaldi, the poem "Spring" by the English William Blake, and the beginning of the seasons of Germany's history. Number of the week: 18Reading Lesson of the week: Long Vowel Recognition You will need:Print or write out the first stanza of this poem so children can read aloud:William Blake, ‘Spring‘.Sound the flute!Now it’s mute!Bird’s delight,Day and night,Nightingale,In the dale,Lark in sky,—Merrily,Merrily merrily, to welcome in the year...https://www.poetryloverspage.com/poets/blake/spring.html

The Renaissance gave birth to new and revived forms of art, architecture, inventions, and ideas! Today, we explore Martin Luther's world-changing ideas as the Pizza and Poetry group chase a thief through Central Park to retrieve a suit of armor from Martin Luther's time. You will need: 1. Math manipulatives (17 of any type of counter that can be used to count and create math problems)2. Paper/board and writing tools so that you can write a Haiku.3. A globe or map with lines of longitude and latitude. Here is a graphic novel for older elementary children on Martin Luther which gives a lot of great information on his life and the Reformation: https://www.amazon.com/Luther-Echoes-Susan-K-Leigh/dp/0758623828

Grab some math manipulatives and get ready to sing and smile (do you know how many muscles you use when you smile?)! Today we continue with the months of the year and counting to 17 for preschoolers, math problems for K-1st grade, and the Renaissance invention of the PRINTING PRESS by Johannes Gutenberg. Also, solve three mysteries: Micah's Mystery CreatureThe theft at the NYC METThe Mystery Country

This week, we invite you to explore the stages of the butterfly's life cycle - you can even order a kit in which you receive caterpillars and watch them form cocoons and become butterflies!Number of the Week: 17Poetry: Haiku (17 syllables); Concept: What is a syllable? Find out how many are in your name! You will need:1. (Optional) Butterfly Kit2. Math manipulatives (counters): if you can find 17 toy animals or butterflies, this would be perfect for today! 3. For older children: notebook for Haiku writing and analogy writing (Prompt: What stage of the butterfly life cycle do you feel you're in?)

What was childhood like in Poland in the mid-20th century? Today we learn about growing up in Częstochowa fifty years ago, and we finish the mystery story which traces Copernicus' path (and secrets) around Poland! Number math: sums that equal 16Reading Chunk: AICalendar: Months of the YearNote on Story: We strive to be historically accurate in all accounts; however, the idea of Leonardo da Vinci contacting Nicholas Copernicus is fictional, but possible. =)

Who is hungry for a blueberry pierogi? This special episode features interviews with family members who remember some challenging times in the history of our mystery country. Join us as we celebrate this amazing nation! You will need:1) Math manipulatives for counting2) Hands-on activities for children to play with as they listen to the fascinating story that spans 1000 years!

Sometimes we need to show true bravery! Today we welcome a guest who will tell her story of bravery when she found a mouse in an unlikely place! The Pizza and Poetry Group travels today to the mystery country and is introduced to its cuisine, a glittering town, a mountain range and wildlife. You will need:Write down the following rhyming words on a blackboard, whiteboard, or on separate cards: pain, rain, train, mainThere are many directions in which you can go today as you research the mystery country! Here are some:The Town of Kraków (for older children - the Mongol Invasions of Europe in the 1200’s)Eastern European Foods: Bigos, beet soup, open-faced sandwiches (try making open-faced sandwiches for lunch!)The Carpathian Mountain Range - you can find them on a map/globe and then research the wildlife there! 3. Continue to practice skip counting in 2’s and 4’s, as far as your children can go!4. Find words with the “ai” chunk as you read lots of books today!5. On your next nature walk, what wildlife do you find? Do any of the mystery country’s animals also live in your habitat? 6. Continue to bake, letting your children do the measuring - especially if it involves ounces and pounds this week!

There are many ways to be brave! Today we will hear about one man who had to be brave enough to go against an idea that most of the world believed. His new idea was called heliocentrism. The children in our mystery story will make a model of our heliocentric solar system using round cookies. Today we continue to learn about the special number 16 and the “ai” chunk. You will need:Math manipulatives: counters to count from 1-16Round objects to make into the sun and planets. Create a model of the sun in the middle and planets orbiting around the sun. Draw lines around the sun to show the orbits of each planet. (You can make cookies and decorate them to look like planets.) Something that weighs one pound so your children can feel how heavy a pound is.Books/Internet to research Nicholas Copernicus further!

This week we will hear stories of people who displayed true bravery! We will read a poem about bravery to apply to our lives. We begin with our Months of the Year Song, encourage a Months of the Year Clock craft, then dive into the numbers 12 and 16, both multiples of 4. We'll hear the "ai" chunk in use and learn new map skills (lines of latitude) to try to locate our mystery country.You will need:1. Math manipulatives (objects to count, from 1-16)2. Math notebook and pen/pencil to write numbers 1-16 (for those who write)Suggested: Display numbers 1-16 so that students can copy themSuggested: sand, shaving cream, rice, or other appropriate filler for a sensory box for younger children to draw numbers or at least the circle shape3. Globe or map with lines of latitude. It should show the Equator and Tropic of Cancer lines. 4. View Instagram (Brilliant Mornings) to see the craft - available after 12 PM. See It ThroughBy: Edgar Guest (1881-1959)When you're up against a trouble, Meet it squarely, face to face; Lift your chin and set your shoulders, Plant your feet and take a brace. When it's vain to try to dodge it, Do the best that you can do; You may fail, but you may conquer, See it through! Black may be the clouds about you And your future may seem grim, But don't let your nerve desert you; Keep yourself in fighting trim. If the worst is bound to happen, Spite of all that you can do, Running from it will not save you, See it through! Even hope may seem but futile, When with troubles you're beset, But remember you are facing Just what other men have met. You may fail, but fall still fighting; Don't give up, whate'er you do; Eyes front, head high to the finish. See it through!https://poets.org/poem/see-it-through

Where did the Indian civilization begin? Why did they need to win their Independence? Who was Gandhi? Today we wrap up our fun activities with the number 15, counting in 5's, Fibonacci's Sequence, the pr- blend and understanding love! You will need:1. Counters2. Any pictures/books to provide visuals and familiarize yourself with India and Mahatma Gandhi.3. Activity: Try eating a bland meal without salt, and then add in the salt and taste it again. Picture how it must have felt for some of the Indian people to have to take their meals without salt before the Salt March (remember most Indian dishes are full of flavor)! 4. Singing Voice! 5. Cards, each with a PR blend word written on it, such as pretty, princess, proud, or protect, (or choose a blend you are learning). Have your child pick 5 cards and make a tongue twister with the words!

Today is our Mystery Country Reveal! As we continue thinking about Fibonacci's Sequence and his number patterns found in nature (see the Brilliant Mornings Instagram for a fun video on how to draw the famous spiral) we will discover a colorful land which also produced mathematic geniuses! You will need:1) Counters (Math manipulatives)2) Optional, to go further: Research tools (books/Internet) to dive into further discovering the mystery country 3) Optional: chalk to draw the Fibonacci spiral 4) Materials for writing a letter to a loved one5) Materials for writing a poem (to be done with a parent for younger children)6) Find a copy of The Panchatantra (fables for children), translated into English; these texts were written in Sanskrit over 2,000 years ago and will provide for interesting conversation and learning of morals!Can you video yourself drawing the spiral and send it in to be featured on Instagram? Videos must be less than 1 minute long! Conversational Topics: Talk about showing love to others

A musical and poetic feast awaits listeners today as we move from a mystery creature, to counting by 5's, to personification with a special guest, to a detective investigation, wrapped up with a new musical interpretation of our positive quotes from 1 Corinthians 13. Enjoy!You will need:1) Math counters! Ten group manipulatives (ten sticks/beads/other objects) for counting and adding2) Nature sketchbook 3) Your singing voice!

Time to catch those thieves! Learn about Fibonacci's number sequence as we work with detectives in Pisa, Italy. Find these special numbers all around you!You will need:1. Paper and instruments for writing2. Nature journals3. (Optional) A way to view Instagram (BrilliantMornings) to find a tutorial video by our math expert, and helpful visuals to understand the Fibonacci sequence.4. Math manipulatives for counting and adding! 5. (Optional) An apple and banana to cut open and find sections. Review the Fibonacci Rap from yesterday's podcast!

This week we begin to explore patterns - in numbers, poetry and nature - as we introduce Fibonacci - an Italian mathematician! Our number of the week is 15, and our blend is PR. You will need: 1) If possible to find or purchase (even if it arrives later in the week) - the book Blockhead: the Life of Fibonacci by Joseph D'Agnese, illustrated by John O'Brien. (You may omit some name-calling such as "idiot" as I did when reading to my children; however, the concepts in the book teach the Fibonacci sequence in such a wonderful and clear manner!)2) (Preschoolers) Manipulatives to use for counting - toys, beads, even food!3) (K-1st Grade) Paper or math notebook and writing instruments (or blackboard/whiteboard) to write the numbers 1-15 so they can visually study patterns.4) Objects to tie/group together in groups of ten. You should have at least three groups of ten, so that your child may use these throughout the day. Ideas: groups of ten sticks tied together; necklaces with ten beads each; see resource for an excellent explanation of the topic: The Charlotte Mason Elementary Arithmetic Series by Richele R. Baburina; Book 15. Nature Journal/pencil for sketching and time outside to examine plants and find if they are designed with numbers from the Fibonacci sequence.

Today we wrap up one adventure and chase down some thieves after discovering Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel! You will need:1) Manipulatives with which to play while listening to the story.2) A picture (online or printed) of the Creation of Adam - a portion of the fresco painted by artist Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel - and any other pictures of the Sistine Chapel fresco. Discuss what is happening in the painting(s) and which colors are used. 3) Optional: Find a map of Italy and locate A) Rome; B) Sicily; C) Stromboli 4) After looking at a map of Italy, try to draw or paint it's shape - it looks like a long boot kicking a ball!5) What do you notice about the names of the Italian detectives? 6) Supplement by reading books on the Italian Renaissance and/or Michelangelo. 7) Read books on Italy and research it online. Pretend you can take a family vacation there and plan out what you would most like to see, taste and touch in this special country!

Join your friends at Brilliant Mornings as we introduce the mystery country and some of it's most amazing minds! It looks like the Pizza and Poetry Group has crossed the Atlantic Ocean for an adventure...stay tuned! You will need:1. Math manipulatives (for counting/adding)2. Paper and pencils for drawing3. A special sketchbook dedicated to nature exploration drawings4. Any books or resources on Leonardo Da Vinci and Galileo Galilei for further exploration! (Please see recommended ones in Episode 1 notes.)

Today we dive into the meanings behind certain the days of the week - which were named after the sun, moon and planets - and learn a song about the planets. We continue with our number 14-centered math activities and the -ay chunk. Parents are encouraged to use this day for exploration - reading about the planets, discovering great inventors, and encouraging their children to spend time sketching their own inventions! You will need: 1. Chalk - make an outdoor hopscotch board with the -ay words (or other spelling words) in the boxes to shout out as you jump on them (weather-permitting)! 2. Math manipulatives to use for children who are adding single-digit numbers. 3. Books or websites on the planets.4. Paper and colorful pencils/markers for sketching5. Websites/books to research two brilliant men who changed the world - both from the mystery country!

Today we begin a mystery story that includes many opportunities to recognize -ay chunks and work with addition and even multiplication concepts, while focusing on the number 14. Parents can listen to the episode with their children, providing hands-on manipulatives (puzzles, toys, kinetic sand, etc.) for the younger ones who can play and absorb what they hear simultaneously. You will need: 1) 28 small math manipulatives to use when counting and grouping (rocks, pennies, pasta, sticks - any small objects will do!). 2) Paper/whiteboard/blackboard to write a poem with -ay words (the parent or child can write, depending on developmental/skill level, as you talk together about it). Instructions: Write several -ay words and read them with your child (play, pray, lay, stay are examples). Then, give your child prompts such as: I like to _______. Ask him/her complete the sentence with the appropriate -ay word. Write several lines in this manner, making sure that the last word in the sentence is an -ay word, and create a short poem! 3) Books or Internet to search for a country that has three live volcanoes. Please email me anything you would like to share at brilliantmornings@gmail.com. You may guess the mystery country at any time over email.

Spice up your Monday morning as we introduce our number of the week - 14; chunk of the week - ay; mystery country clue and much more!This episode includes activities for a variety of ages - the target ages being 4-8, as it’s a family-style meeting with a little something for everyone. Children four and under should have coloring or quiet toys available for them so they can play while listening to the activities for older siblings. Older siblings should encourage the little ones with their activities. You will need: 1) a world map or globe 2) a piece of paper and crayons/colored pencils to draw with; 3) math manipulatives to count with - these can be beads, dry pasta, rocks, etc.; 4) paper, a marker board, or blackboard to write out new words/math problems as needed. Optional: manipulative letters (wooden/magnetic).This podcast is a flexible tool to give parents ideas and organization. Parents are encouraged to listen to the podcast ahead of time and consider their children’s ages and learning styles as they decide whether to:1) listen to the show along with their children, stopping and starting it as needed to figure out math problems and discuss questions at their children’s pace, or2) simply create their own morning meeting based on the episode, selecting the activities that will work for their children and teaching them with manipulatives. You know your child best! Visual and hands-on learners will benefit from seeing the concepts we discuss written out, and using manipulatives wherever possible! We also invite you to borrow or purchase some books that will go along with our themes during the rest of the week*:The first is Neo Leo: The Ageless Ideas of Leonardo Da Vinci, by Gene Barretta – this book is a simple one with a few sentences per page, and it's interesting for all ages. The next is My Crazy Inventions Sketchbook: 50 Awesome Drawing Activities for Young Inventors by Lisa Regan and Andrew Rae. This book will inspire the imaginations of elementary-aged children, and challenge them to sketch new inventions - hours and hours of creating! *We are in no way affiliated with these authors, books or publishers, but have enjoyed them as a family.