Winter Break: Activity Ideas for Students and Families

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 12/27/2022 12:36 PM EST

We are Better Together 

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Dear Island Creek Community,

I hope all Island Creek students, families, and staff are relaxing and rejuvenating with a wonderful Winter Break and cherishing the joy of the season!

With a 2-week Winter Break, I would like to share suggestions of fun and free (or low-cost) activities your child(ren) can engage in to continue their learning. Please note that these are just a sampling of ideas and not inclusive. 

I look forward to welcoming our Crocs back to school on Tuesday, January 3, 2023!

Warmly,

Jen Fallert

Principal

Winter Break Activity Suggestions

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Cultural Celebrations, Observances, and Holidays

We encourge all students to make a poster to showcase a family and/or cultural celebration, observance, or holiday to display in the hallway at Island Creek. Students should bring their poster to the front office and will receive a "Croc" bracelet.

Lexia Core 5 and PowerUp 

All students in FCPS have access to Lexia Core 5 (KDG-5th Grade) or PowerUp (6th Grade) which is an online evidence-based structured literacy resource. Students are encouraged to access the individualized online program for 15-20 minutes daily.

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ST Math

All students in FCPS have access to ST Math which is an online game-based math problem-solving program. Students love Gigi the penguin! Students are encouraged to access the individualized online program for 15 minutes, 3-5 times per week.

Kingstowne Library

Looking for a good book or want to find a cozy place to read? Check out the Kingstowne Libary (hours 10-6, Tuesday-Saturday). Additional information can be found here.

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Fairfax County Parks and Recreation Centers

With the warmer weather heading our way, it's a perfect time to head to our county parks! Some of my family's favorite parks include: Huntley Meadows (both entrances), Lake Accotink, Burke Lake, Hidden Pond, and Green Spring Gardens. Additionally, on chilly days, the indoor Recreation Centers (ie., Lee District, Mount Vernon, South Run), make for great famliy time! Additional information can be found here. 

Smithsonian Museums in DC

Being a tourist in DC over Winter Break is perfect as the crowds are less than Spring Break or Summer Break. There are a plethora of museums to visit with information found here. My family and I are heading to The National Museum of African American History and Culture on Friday (if you visit, make sure you get a timed entrance pass). 

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Military and History Museums and Memorials in VA and DC

We are fortunate to have incredible military and history museums nearby to recognize, honor, and celebrate our military personnel and history. Some nearby museums include:

National Zoo in DC

An attraction all children will love...the National Zoo! Who can resist the Giant Cub Panda that was born Summer 2020! Information can be found here, all visitors must have an entry pass, and there is a $30 Parking Fee for on-site parking.

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