My kids like to write a letter to the president using these recommendations. They were thrilled to receive this packet back.
Notice there were interesting facts about the history of the White House, including a colorful map, and lots of other goodies, even a photo of the president's dog. The kids loved reading everything. Shhh! Don't tell them that they were learning during their letter writing assignment and while reading all the great information that was sent to them. They were having too much fun. :)
I am using some of the terrific free printables from Education.com to make "fun learning packets" on President's Day.
My incredible friend Shannon at Technology Rocks Seriously has seriously done it again! She created another site with her top picks of President's Day sites, games, videos, printables, and apps. President's Day Fun is a BIG time-saver for me trying to find the best resources on-line, and I'm at peace knowing a mom/teacher has already reviewed the sites to see which ones are kid-friendly. My kids will be having some fun on this new site learning about the presidents.
I'm excited to share one of my family's favorite desserts with you, which is perfect for President's Day since it has lots of cherries. (See George's Washington's story about the cherry tree. I don't know if that legend is true or not, but I like to celebrate honesty anytime I can.)
This dessert is called "Dump Cake" since all you do is dump ingredients and spread them out into layers. There is no mixing involved. My kids make this all by themselves since it is incredibly easy. It takes likes a cobbler-cake combination and makes a delicious warm dessert. Side note: this is one of the top requested desserts that people like me to bring to get-togethers, and we also make it every year on Christmas. Yes, it's that good!
Cherry-Pineapple Dump Cake
1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple, undrained
1 (21 ounces) can cherry pie
filling
1 (18.25 ounces) box yellow cake mix
1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter or margarine, each cut into 12
slices
4 oz. shredded coconut
Use a standard baking pan. Remember there is no mixing in this recipe. You will only be making layers. First, spread pineapple (undrained) on the bottom. Second, spoon out and spread the cherry pie filling. Third, carefully sprinkle the cake mix. (I only use about 3/4 of the box.) Next, place the butter slices over the top. Last, sprinkle coconut on the top. (I use about 4 oz. but you can add more if your family likes coconut a lot.) I have also seen people add nuts to the top, too. Bake for 350 uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. Remove when the top looks light brown. Serve with ice ream and whipped cream. Be prepared to make it again and again after your family takes a bite!
Enjoy celebrating our country's history!
