Beavers are moving farther north because the weather is getting warmer. In places like northern Canada, they are building dams that turn small streams into ponds and lakes. These changes create homes for some animals, but they can also make it harder for Arctic char, an important fish, to reach places where they lay their eggs. Scientists are studying how beavers are changing the land, while local Inuit communities are looking for ways to protect their fishing areas. Create a before-and-after picture of a stream where beavers build a dam. Label the plants and animals you see in each picture. Then write a short paragraph explaining one way the beavers help nature and one way they create challenges for people or wildlife.

Author Jacqueline Woodson helped turn her picture book “The Day You Begin” into a PBS Kids animated special. The story follows children from different backgrounds as they start kindergarten and learn that everyone has unique experiences, talents, and traditions to share. The show encourages children to be proud of who they are and to listen to the stories of others. Woodson hopes young viewers will feel confident, make new friends, and enjoy reading and learning. Think about something that makes you unique, such as a family tradition, a favorite hobby, or a special place you have visited. Draw a picture that shows it, then write 4–5 sentences explaining why it is important to you and how sharing it could help classmates learn more about you.

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most exciting sky shows of the year. During the best nights, people in dark places may see dozens of meteors, also called shooting stars, every hour. These bright streaks happen when tiny pieces of a comet burn up as they race through Earth’s atmosphere. This year, the dark new moon will make it easier to enjoy the beautiful display. Pretend you stayed up late to watch the meteor shower. Write a journal entry of at least five sentences describing what you saw, how the night sky looked, and how you felt while watching the shooting stars.

Scientists believe a leftover part of a SpaceX rocket crashed into the moon after drifting through space for more than a year. Telescopes detected signs that the impact happened, even though no one saw the crash directly. Researchers hope to take pictures of the new crater soon. The event reminds scientists that they need to find better ways to keep space clean as more missions travel to the moon. Imagine you are an engineer designing a rocket for the future. Draw your rocket and label one or two features that would help prevent space junk. Then write a paragraph explaining how your design could help protect the moon and outer space.

More than 90,000 rubber ducks floated down the Chicago River during the annual Chicago Ducky Derby. People sponsored the ducks to help raise money for Special Olympics Illinois, which provides sports competitions for athletes with disabilities. The winning duck earned its sponsor a prize, while the event raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support athletes. Families enjoyed games, music, and cheering as the ducks floated down the river. Think of a fun fundraiser your school or community could hold to help a charity. Draw a picture of your event, then write 4–5 sentences explaining how it would work, who it would help, and why people would enjoy taking part.