Issue 39 by kidz.blog!

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ISSUE 39, JAN - MARCH 2017 AED 5

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Competition Show Us Who You Are Draw or paint a picture that represents you The winner will receive a gift certificate to Mall of the Emirates for

AED 200

March 15th, 2017.

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ADVICE.BLOG! NEWS ALL ABOUT MAURITIUS FACTS!

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How Parents Can Ensure A Safe Online Experience For Their Children

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TALENT

A LETTER TO ALL THE DREAMERS

HOROSCOPES

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P.O.Box 212965, Dubai U.A.E. Tel: +971 4 346 6144 Fax: +971 4 346 6145 SZR SAFA 1 | Mardoof Bldg | 104 www.massmediadxb.com Managing Director & Editor Farrah Alshash Kasem Sales and Marketing Mazhar Agha Contributing Partner Al Basel Consultancy Designer Maya El Chammas Writers Lynn Johannsen Cinta Gibbons

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SPOT ME! Atlantis is looking for Aster the Lobster. She is swimming through Kidz.Blog! and has made 10 different stops. Can you find her? Aster the Lobster can be found throughout the Kidz.Blog! magazine! Your job is to find all the pages that Aster the Lobster appears on and let us know where she’s hiding! Be the first to send us the locations and you could win amazing prizes!

Web Master Pramod Nair Photographers Omar K For Advertising Enquiries Tel: +971 4 346 6144 E-mail: Kidzblog@massmediadxb.com Published by Mass-Media Publishing & Advertising LLC Copyright © Mass-Media Publishing & Advertising LLC 2016 Mass-Media Publishing & Advertising LLC regrets that they cannot accept liability for error contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advise before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be oppropriate for readers with particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks “MassMedia Publishing & Advertising LLC” and “KIDZ.BLOG” are acknowledged. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form with out permission of Mass-Media Publishing in writing.

For subscriptions questions, contact Mass-Media Publishing & Advertising LLC , kidzblog@MASSMEDIAdxb.com P.O.Box 212965, Dubai U.A.E. Tel: +971 4 346 6144, Fax: +971 4 346 6145 SZR SAFA 1 | Mardoof Bldg | 104 | www.massmediadxb.com IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please be aware that stated in the Facebook terms and conditions,Usage of the social network is for users above 13 years of age. In the following provision, 4.5 of the Registration and Account Security states that users under the age of 13 years are not to use Facebook. KIDZ.BLOG regrets that they cannot accept liability for any under age minor operations of any social network, particularly Facebook. Readers are advised to seek specialist advise before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be oppropriate for readers with particular circumstances.

Have you ever wanted to publish a birthday wish? Or say something special about your best friend? Or post a mini advertisement? Well, whatever it is! Say it on our SHOUT OUTS page! Contact us on: Kidzblog@massmediadxb.com ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 5

Advice.Blog! Dear Kidz.Blog! Magazine,

WE’LL ANSWER YOUR “HELP” QUESTIONS! Email us at Kidzblog@massmediadxb.com

I wrote an amazing poem, could I send it to you to publish in your magazine? One and Only Aman

Dear Aman, Of course you can send us your poem to publish! We love to publish talent of other children. Please send your work to editor@kidzblogmagazine.com

Dear Kidz.Blog, I watch the news these days and it give me nightmares. I’m scared of everything that’s going. Help.

Dear Sarya, I understand that the news can be scary. Best not to watch it. Think of all the beautiful things that are going on in this world and you will see that they out-weigh the bad.

Scared Sarya

Dear Kidz.Blog! I moved to a new school and I really miss my old school because my new school friends are not so my kind. I really want some advice. Help! Shy sara Dear Shy Sara, I know it is never easy switching schools. Making friends all over again is not as simple as it seems. Try to find kids who share the same interests as you. Having something in common with another makes friendship easier. If someone is bullying you, please inform your teacher or a trusted adult. If things don’t get better at your new school try to talk to your school counselor for advise and have your parents come along to the meeting.

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15-year-old daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Present and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, lead a great example by volunteering with the UAE Food Bank initiative. Sheikha Shamma Bint Mohammad visited a construction site on Sheikh Zayed Road and distributed the food to workers. During her interview with Dubai TV, Sheikha Shamma said, â&#x20AC;&#x153; I am glad to conduct t his charity act along with my friends.â&#x20AC;? Sheikha Shamma was part of the first batch of volunteers to participate in the Food Bank. Their aim is to distribute over 9,000 meals to construction sites in Dubai, Fujairah and Ajman.

Find 2 of the same pictures!

Find 6 Differences

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Mauritius By: Cinta Gibbins

Hello there! This year we are going to kick off by learning about a beautiful country called Mauritius. Do you know where Mauritius is? It is located in the South West of the Indian Ocean, East of Madagascar. Mauritius is known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, tropical weather, wildlife and tropical forests. This island is ringed by mountains, which rise to 2700ft (820m) in the southwest. Mauritius is divided into nine districts.

http://www.infoplease.com/encyclopedia/world/mauritius.html http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/africa/mauritius/articles/mauritius-attractions/ http://www.worldtravelguide.net/mauritius/food-and-drink 10

Mauritius is officially called the Republic of Mauritius

Capital is

Port Luis

GOVERNMENT

2,040 Mauritius is

kilometers (788miles) by area

Mauritian Rupee

It is a

democratic state

CURRENCY History •

•

Back in the Middle Ages, Mauritius was more likely to be visited by the Arabs and Malays. In the 16th century, it was visited by Portuguese sailors. The Dutch took over the island in the year 15981710. That is when it was named Mauritius

after Prince Maurice of Nassau. •

•

• After the abolition of slavery in 1835, laborers under a legal contract were brought from India and since then their descendants occupy the majority of the population.

•

Mauritius attained its

1968.

independence in the year

In 1722, the French occupied the island and called it Île de France. It became a very important way station on the route to India. The French people introduced sugarcane farming and imported large number of slaves from Africa to work on the plantations. The British took over the island in 1810 and restored the Dutch name ‘Mauritius’.

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Geographical features and fascinating places If you love animal breeding parks, then Les Vanille Reserves des Mascareignes is for you. In this park, you will get to hold a baby crocodile, fruit bat, iguana and even Aldabra tortoise. There is also the fossil museum, a jungle playground and a restaurant called Hungry Crocodile.

Mauritius is a paradise of endless beaches and lagoons. Some of the finest public beaches include: Grand bay (best for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing) Belle Mare (constitutes of miles and miles of white spotless beaches), Blue Bay (ideal for sailing) and Flic en Flac (has Casuarina trees).

Aux Isle Aigrettes (Egret Island) is believed to be the last resting place of the dodo. This island is

surrounded by the sea and has giant Aldabra tortoises and pink pigeons living in the semi-wild.

Have you ever dreamt of walking with a lion? Well your dreams can come true in the Casela Nature & Leisure Park. Here you can not only walk with lions, you will also get to go on a safari and watch animals such as zebras, ostrich, elephants, hippos and giraffes.

People and Culture There is a wide range of people from different backgrounds in Mauritius. More than two thirds of the people in Mauritius are from an Indian descent, more than 25% are creole (of mixed African and French background). There are also small communities of the Chinese and French people.

Literacy percentage is

86%

About half the population in Mauritius is Hindu and 30% are Christians (mainly Roman Catholics). Most of the remaining population is Muslims.

Life expectancy of Mauritians is

72 years.

The official language in Mauritius is English. However, people also speak French, Creole dialect, Hindu, Urdu, Hakka and Bhojpuri.

Mauritian Cuisine

The French, Indian, Chinese and Creole cuisines mainly influenced Mauritian dishes. • Fish vindaye: Curried fish with garlic, mustard, • • •

ginger and onion. This is served with rice and pickled vegetables. Dholl puri: Wheat pancake stuffed with ground peas and served with curry. Rougaille: Popular Creole tomato stew with meat or fish, garlic, onion and thyme. Mine frites: Soy sauce fried noodles with spring onions and chili.

Camarons:

Fresh water prawns in a hot sauce.

Achard: Pickled vegetables with mustard. ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 13

Did you know?

Belfast.

The oldest cockroach fossils are over

280 million years old.

Diet Coke was introduced in 1982. 14

Isaac Newton invented the

cat door.

The first

taxi service began in

New York in 1907.

Flushable toilets

were in use long ago in ancient Rome.

It took Leonardo Da Vinci

10 years to paint Mona Lisa.

Instant coffee was invented in 1901.

The hamburger was invented in 1900.

http://www.thefactsite.com/ Images by Freepik.com

The Titanic was built in

Word

SCRAMBLE

Put your puzzle solving skills to the test with our spring word scramble. Look carefully at the jumbled words and try unscrambling as many of the anagrams as you can into real words.

QUESTIONS

ANSWERS

NLO RLUTTE LOW GREIT RABE BZREA HISF RAFEGIF KOMEYN PDALEOR BIGBON RREEENID KSSRAH SINCTE GORSF LKAAO RROTPA GPEUNING

bear

gibbon

leopard

tiger

giraffe

turtle

owl

lion ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 15

monkey fish

koala frogs

insect

sharks

reindeer

penguin parrot

Meet The Longest, Tallest & Fastest Roller Coasters In The World

By early 19th century the idea of such wheeled carts on tracks started to gain popularity outside Russia and the first roller coasters with wheeled vehicles on tracks was soon built in Paris. The rides named Les Montagnes Russes à Belleville and the Promenades Aeriennes in Parc Beaujon built in 1817 both featured securely locked wheeled cars on tracks with guide rails and operated at higher The first patent related to roller coasters was speeds. With growing popularity new innovations obtained on January 20, 1885 by the American have been introduced to the structural design inventor and businessman, LaMarcus Adna and technology behind roller coasters, which Thompson, for roller coasters made out of wood. made them bigger in size, superior in safety and But the early prototypes of roller coaster idea extremely fast. can be traced back to the Russian winter sled rides of 17th century. These rides were held on specially constructed hills of ice – often reaching 70 to 80 feet and reinforced with wood – known as “Russian Mountains”, and were popular in regions surrounding modern day St. Petersburg. roller coaster is one of the most exhilarating ride and star attraction on offer at any amusement park. The sharp curves, steep climbs and sheer drops of a roller coaster provide plenty of adrenaline rush for the rider. In this article we take a look at some of the tallest, largest and fastest roller coasters from across the world.

The Tallest Roller Coaster With a top height of 456 feet, the Kingda Ka, a steel accelerator roller coaster located at Six Flags Great Adventure in, New Jersey, United States is the world’s tallest roller coaster. Powered by a hydraulic launch mechanism it’s train can achieve speeds of 206 km/h making it the world’s second fastest roller coaster. Opened in 2005, the total length of the track on Kingda Ka is about 950 m. Top Thrill Dragster, Ohio, U.S.A (420 feet), Superman: Escape from Krypton, California, U.S.A (415 feet) and Tower of Terror II, Queensland, Australia (377 feet) are some of the other steel roller coasters that take their riders to immense heights. With a height of 197 feet, the Colossos, situated at Heide Park in, Lower Saxony, Germany is the tallest wooden roller coaster.

The Longest Roller Coaster The Steel Dragon 2000, a roller coaster at Nagashima Spa Land amusement park in Mie Prefecture, Japan holds the record for the longest track length with 8,133 feet of track. Opened in 2000, this is the second fastest roller coaster in Japan. The Ultimate, in North Yorkshire, England (7,442 feet), Fujiyama in Japan (6709 feet) and Fury 325, U.S.A (6,602 feet) are some of the other lengthiest steel roller coasters. Opened in 1979, with a length of 7,359 feet, The Beast, in Ohio is the longest wooden roller coaster in the world.

The Fastest Roller Coaster Formula Rossa, a steel roller coaster located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is the world’s fastest roller coaster with a top speed of 239 km/h. Powered by a hydraulic launch system the coaster

train accelerates to its top speed in a breath taking 5 seconds. Opened in 2010, the riders of Formula Rossa experience up to 1.7 G’s of force during acceleration and up to 4.8 G’s throughout the ride. The total track length of Formula Rossa is 2.2 km.

Kingda Ka, United States (206 km/h) and Top Thrill Dragster, United States (190 km/h) are some of the other steel roller coasters that operates at mesmerizing speeds. Reaching speeds of 117 km/h, the Lightning Rod situated at Dollywood, Tennessee, U.S.A, is the fastest wooden roller coaster. ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 17

How Parents Can Ensure A Safe Online Experience For Their Children The way in which the Internet has made an impact on our modern day life and has influenced every phase of our daily life is really amazing. No technology has changed human beings like the Internet and in the present day scenario ‘being online’ has become an integral part of our social and cultural life. Like in adults, the Internet has become an integral part of the daily life of children’s too and they utilize their online presence for educational, recreational, social and other activities. With the ever increasing online presence among children, the probabilities of them falling victims to the various security risks found on the Internet also increases. Parents can play a key role in ensuring a safe online experience for their children. In this article we explore some of the basic ways in which a parent can ensure the safety of their children on the Internet. Make your kids aware of the importance of privacy while being online Always remember that information that we share on the Internet can be accessed by other people and seemingly innocent pieces of personal information may help malicious people to target you with a scam or criminal intent. Parents should make sure that their kids are aware of the importance of being alert while sharing content on the Internet. Talk with your kids about the risks involved in posting private information on the Internet and make sure that information like personal address, phone numbers, parent’s details, school details and travel schedules are never shared on the Internet. Kids should be made aware of fraudulent people found on the various social media platforms and online forums who scam strangers in to divulging personal information.

Kids should also be aware of the danger of posting personal photographs and videos on public online platforms. Instill in them a policy in consulting with their parents for choosing appropriate content that can be shared on social media networks. Also make sure your kids are not sharing their passwords

with other people even if they are very close friends.

Communicate with them about the various risks involved while being online

Always make it a habit of communicating with your kids about their online activities and educate them about the various risks that are found on the Internet. Like describing them about the various risks found in the darker and shady parts of a city, make sure that they are aware of the dangers that are lurking on the Internet that can exploit a careless user. Instill in them an online security mindset and make sure the kids understand that your concerns are not because of your mistrust in them but for their own safety. Open talks about the risks, preventive measures, safety policies etc with your kids can help in avoiding this misunderstanding. Encourage them to talk to you right away when they come across something that makes them feel uncomfortable while being online. Never allow them to directly meet with strangers who they have met only on the Internet.meal plans, which will keep your kids sharp and focused during the exam days.

Make use of technology to ensure the online safety of your kids Technology can assist parents in taking care of some of the privacy and security risks that a kid can face on the Internet and making sure that they don’t accidently come across inappropriate content. For starters having basic security tools like anti-virus and antispyware kits on the device that connect to the Internet can make sure that your kids are going online from a safe software environment.

kid can face online. Installing Filtering programs ensures that kids are not exposed to adult content and can reduce the risk of personal information getting hijacked. Activity Monitoring software tools can assist parents in monitoring and keeping track of their children’s online activity.

Teaching them how to avoid being the target of cyber bullying Like bullies in the real world, the intent of a cyber bully is to intimidate a victim and he utilizes online messages and emails for the purpose of instilling the fear. One of the basic things that can be taught to your child regarding

online abuse is about the importance of respecting other people’s views and always be careful about what they post on online platforms. Talk with your kids about cyber bullying and ensure that they will not respond to any such threatening or bullying behavior faced via online and will right away involve their parents or a responsible adult who can then proceed with appropriate safety and legal measures. Communicating with your kid about the importance of online safety and coming up with a family guideline for children’s online activities can reduce the risks related to the Internet.

Teach your kids about the safety settings available on the browsers and privacy settings available on social platforms and the importance of keeping their safety level always at the maximum. Make sure that they are aware of the dangers of clicking on suspicious links and teach them to make it a habit not to download and install programs without adult supervision. Parents can utilize good parental control software tools to reduce the risks their ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 19

The World Of Parasitic Plants & Epiphytes Parasitism is the biological interrelation between two different organisms in which the parasitic species utilizes the other species â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the host species - to obtain itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s subsistence. This is usually done by the parasite by either living in or on the body of the species. Parasitic relationship can be found both in the animal and plant kingdoms and in both cases the parasitic species is usually specially adapted, so that a particular species is only capable of invading and benefit from a particular host species. In this article we take a closer look at the parasitic behavior found in the plant kingdom. 20

Epiphytic Plants Epiphytic plants or Air plants, are green plants that usually grow on the surface of other living plants. They are not rooted in soil and they live on the surface of other plants while obtaining water from rainfall and moisture in air and minerals from organic matter that has accumulated on the surface of the host plant. Their leaves are specially adapted for absorbing and storing even small amount of water, which is available either as rain or atmospheric moisture. The epiphytes plants cannot be called parasitic as they produce their own food through photosynthesis and unlike true parasites these plants use other plants for physical support only. In usual conditions the epiphytes are not injurious to the host plant. One of the most common reasons for this epiphytic behavior is to reach sunlight by perching atop other tall plants and trees and these types of air plants are usually found all around the globe. The epiphytes are found in abundance in the warm moist tropical conditions and some of the common examples for these type of plants are numerous species of tropical orchids, Spanish moss, types of Lichens, cacti, bromeliads and staghorn fern. Some of the largest species of these air plants like the giant bromeliads that are found in the rain forests of American tropics can grow up to more than a meter in size

An Epiphyte Plant attached to a tree, common in the swamps in Florida

host plant species the parasitic plants utilize special structural modifications like hook or sucker shaped roots, with which they attach themselves to the hosts. These root like organs named haustoria penetrate the stems or roots of the host plant and merge with their vascular tissue, after which the parasitic

plants start extracting water, minerals and nutrients manufactured by the host. Such complete parasitic plants usually lack chlorophyll - the green photosynthetic pigment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and foliage leaves since thy have no need of producing their own food. They steal whatever resource they need for their survival from the host plant and supply no benefit in return.

Parasitism in plants Parasitic plants obtain all their nutrients from the host plant on which they thrive. In order to invade a specific

Dodder (Genus Cuscuta) is a parasitic plant that is totally dependent on other host plants for survival

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Young UAE Footballers Inspired By Trip To Manchester City FC a privilege to be able to see first-hand what amazing facilities Manchester City have. The trip really brought all the different squads together. To watch them learn, interact and fulfil their passion for football was so pleasing to see and to watch my son enjoy each and every experience was a delight.” City Football Schools gives the younger generation in Abu Dhabi an opportunity to improve their football skills, stay healthy, make friends and have lots of fun in a positive and friendly learning environment.

Young footballers from the UAE discovered exactly what life is like as an English Premier League player during a visit to Manchester City FC. The 48 boys and girls, who all train at City Football Schools in Abu Dhabi, recently spent five days at the club’s Etihad Campus where they were trained by the professional coaching team, had the opportunity to play on the famous Etihad Stadium pitch and were even put in the spotlight for a mock-match day press conference. During their action-packed trip, they also welcomed first team players onto the pitch before watching City triumph 2-1 against Burnley. Qaiser Giles, a ten-year-old player from Abu Dhabi who went on the trip, said: “Everything about the trip was amazing. “From practicing at the academy, being able to try out the facilities, to watching the top players on the pitch, you really get to experience how 22

professional Manchester City players have developed and have made it to the top.” “Practicing and training with the coaches each day was great, I can now imagine doing that all my life and I didn’t even mind the English weather!” City Football Schools have been taking place in Abu Dhabi for more than four years with sessions held at Zayed Sports City, New York University Saadiyat Campus and the newly added Emirates Palace location. Qaiser’s father Francisco Giles went to Manchester with his son and added: “The experience was fantastic and it was

Simon Hewitt, City Football Schools Project Manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this experience to our City Football School footballers as they get first-hand experience of what it’s like to be a professional football player at Manchester City.” “It’s undoubtedly one of the best learning experiences they can get and it’s wonderful to see how this trip has inspired them all.”

To find out more information on City Football Schools and their training programmes please visit www.cityfootballschools.com

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Twas The Night Before Christmas A Poem That Influenced The Modern Day Portrayal Of Santa Claus

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro’ the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danc’d in their heads, - The opening lines of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas or A Visit from St. Nicholas, by Clement Clarke Moore is arguably one of the most popular Christmastide themed poems ever written. The poem was originally published anonymously in Sentinel on December 23, 1823 and portrayed St. Nicholas, in an air-borne sleigh pulled by eight reindeer visiting houses and distributing toys for children on the Christmas Eve told through the eyes of a father. The poetry is short and simple and is pleasant to read and it follows a metrical form, which is almost similar to a limerick. From the introduction of the edition from 1912 we can perceive Moore’s motivation behind writing the poem.

Clement C. Moore, who wrote the poem, never expected that he would be remembered by it. If he expected to be famous at all as a writer, he thought it would be because of the Hebrew Dictionary that he wrote. He was born in a house near Chelsea Square, New York City, in 1781; and he lived there all his life. It was a great big house, with fireplaces in it; -- just the house to be living in on Christmas Eve. Dr. Moore had children. He liked writing poetry for them even more than he liked writing a Hebrew Dictionary. He wrote a whole book of poems for them. One year he wrote this poem, which we usually call “’T was the Night before Christmas,” to give to his children for a Christmas present. They read it just after they had hung up their stockings before one of the big fireplaces in their house. Afterward, they learned it, and sometimes recited it, just as other children learn it and recite it now.

This piece of poem that Moore wrote for his children Margaret, Charity and Mary influenced the physical appearance and the jolly bright personality of St. Nicholas in American popular culture pretty soon. Lines like: His eyes how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow; ,

The cover image of the 1912 edition

He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly., and he was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, closely resemble the modern day popular depiction of Santa Claus. Moore’s template for the Santa that he drew through his poetry soon replaced the centuries old characteristic depictions of St. Nicholas of Europe. The poem also influenced the ideas of Christmas Eve gifting and is believed to have popularized the concept of Santa visiting homes on Christmas Eve bearing gifts in America.

Santa as illustrated by Jessie Willcox Smith based on the description by Moore in the poem. The poetry was soon reprinted in many newspapers and magazines and was also adapted for many musical renderings.

A scan of the poem, which was printed in the December 29, 1877 issue of ‘Home Circle’ newspaper, published from Boston.

Jessie Willcox Smith The Illustrator The edition, which inspired this article, was published by Hougton Mifflin Company in 1912 and the poem was accompanied by cute and rich illustrations done by Jessie Willcox Smith, one of the most famous female illustrators in the US during the late 19th and early 20th centuries; a time period which is often regarded as the Golden Age of American Illustration. Born in 1863 in Philadelphia, Jessie Willcox Smith was a prolific contributor to a range of well known magazines and periodicals of the time like Good Housekeeping, Scribner’s and Collier’s . She also did illustrations for literary works like An Old-Fashioned Girl (Louisa May Alcott), A Child’s Garden of Verses (Robert Louis Stevenson), The BedTime Book (Helen Hay Whitney), Dicken’s Children (Charles Dickens) and Heidi (Johanna Spyri).

Jessie Willcox Smith was definitely influenced by French impressionist painters in her choice of colors and was equally proficient in working with a whole range of media like oil, watercolor, charcoal and pastels. A large percentage of her works reflects motherly love with children being portrayed as the main subjects. She passed away in 1935. He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night. “

The conclusion of the poem as illustrated by Jessie Willcox Smith from the 1912 edition of ‘Twas the night before Christmas The illustrations in this edition reflect the spirit and joy of Christmas and they portray the wonder, the cheer and the anticipation, in children on the night of Christmas Eve.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 25

4 great tips for

Encouraging Reading Habits In Kids By: Cinta Gibbins

Reading is an important skill for a child as it can influence his performance at school and the overall development as a person. As Frederick Douglass, the great African-American social reformer and writer observed, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free. “; once mastered, reading can open doors of imagination and new worlds for a child and can be an asset in each step of his development. In this article we share some great tips that can guide parents in assisting their children in developing good reading habits, right from a very young age. Let your child see you read Kids are great observers! Children can get influenced by habits that they observe in their parents. By seeing a parent reading and enjoying a book, a child can learn the values of reading. Let your child see you read as much as possible – be it a book, newspaper or any other reading material – and it can create impressions in him about reading as an activity that can be enjoyed.

Take trips to libraries with your kid Taking trips with your kids to libraries and book fairs can help your child explore and discover a world of new books and authors. A library is a great place to see and explore a wide selection of books associated with a range of topics and making your child interact with new books on a regular basis helps him identify the wide possibilities of reading.

Read together with your children Reading together with your child and reading aloud to your child are great ways in which a parent can share the message of the fun associated with reading to a kid. According to children’s author Emilie Buchwald, “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”. Reading together with your kid also strengthens the bond between you two and also improves reading and communication skills in the child. Instead of making reading a routine chore, the read-along sessions with their parents, make reading a fun filled activity for children.

Assist them with their reading choices Forcing your own reading selections on a child can have negative effects in their reading habit. Try to find their own interests and then gently assist them in finding good reading materials that match their reading interests. The words of American civil rights activist and poet Maya Angelou can be taken as a key here. She said “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his needs, is good for him.” Introduce them to a selection of books suitable is interested in. Look for the books that ignite and help him in finding more similar books.

for his age group and let your child pick the one that he their curiosity and makes reading a pleasure for them

Constant communication and interaction with your children regarding the books that they read can also improve their reading experience and reading habits. Conducting healthy discussions on the books that they read can improve their communication skills and expand their thinking capability. Follow these easy to implement tips today itself and positively transform the reading experience in your home.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 27

Little Circuit Factory

launches in Dubai to address kids health & fitness

he Circuit Factory, which has been helping adults improve their health and change their lifestyles for many years, is finally launching a children’s fitness program with similar ambition. Today more than at any other time in history, the health of our future generation is at risk, with many studies showing alarming rates of kids overweight or obese. To try and make a difference, the Circuit Factory has been visiting schools all over Dubai to reach out to kids,

parents and faculty to give health talks in an attempt to positively influence the ongoing health epidemic. Canteens and (often worse) lunch boxes are generally filled with low quality, high convenience, heavily processed foods. Not only are these foods toxic to a young person’s body, but they are also being taught to eat those foods for life. Schools are aware and want to fix the issue, but it isn’t easy. Perhaps most troubling, is that most parents are in the dark, and continue to be mislead by false information from the food industry.

In response to this, they have launched a new initiative: Little Circuit Factory. A fitness activity for children aged 7 to 14, where they combine food education with circuit training. They come for the fun exercise, but leave also learning about food. Sessions currently run on Monday’s, Wednesday’s, Friday’s and Saturday’s at the Arcadia Preparatory School in JVT and are open to everyone. Kids are encouraged to try it out. The first session is free. Visit www.circuitfactory. ae/little or email info@circuitfactory.ae for more info.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 29

Sudoku

Find one picture without a copy

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 31

National Day Celebrations! Sunmarke School students celebrate the 45th National Day. Sunmarke School in Dubai is part of Fortes Education.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 33

Please submit your work with your details to: kidzblog@massmediadxb.com or Mass Media P.O.Box 212965, Dubai, U.A.E

How many KIDS do you see?

How many ANIMALS do you see?

Answer: 24

Answer: 13

Help the Gardener water the Plant.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 35

My United Arab Emirates The magnificently special nation

was born in the United Arab Emirates and grew up here. To me, UAE is home and love and pride for this exemplary nation runs in my veins. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no nation in the world like the magnificent United Arab Emirates. What makes the UAE so special is the progressive vision of the dynamic Rulers. It is a nation, which sets new standards for excellence, compassion, innovation, collaboration, ambition and determination. In the span of a few years UAE has transformed itself from a desert to an oasis of opportunities for the entire world. The UAE has set new milestones for brilliance and has consolidated its position as one of the top most countries in the world. UAE has proved that no dream is impossible if we work hard enough. UAE is the first nation in the world to have a Minister of Happiness and Minister of Tolerance. Wellbeing of residents and visitors is given utmost importance. Another special aspect about the UAE is the kindheartedness of the Rulers- their acceptance and celebration

of diversity. Over 190 nationalities live here peacefully. The benevolent and high-minded Rulers make everyone, no matter which country they are from, feel welcome. The feeling of oneness in this country is amazing. I am proud to be a resident of this country and wish that it prospers more and more every day. Long live UAE! Long live the Spirit of the Union! Mishal Faraz Year 5 The Winchester School, Jebel Ali

Tato time Goodni... Goodni... Oh! What’s wrong Oh! What’s wrong Goodni... Goodni... Amal? Amal? Oh!What’s What’swrong wrong Oh! Amal? Amal? I can’t sleep! I can’t sleep!

can’tsleep! sleep! IIcan’t

Next morning... Next morning...

Next Next morning... morning...

Amal, what Amal, what happened?! look happened?! YouYou look Amal, what worse! Amal, worse!what happened?! happened?!You Youlook look worse! worse!

Well... Well... Why don’t the old Why don’t the old Well... trick ofWell... counting a 100 trickWhy of counting a 100 Why don’t the old don’t old sheep till the you fall sheep till you fall trick of counting 100 trick of counting asleep? a a100 asleep? But I like sheep till you fall But I likesheep till you fall tortoises better. asleep? asleep? tortoises But Ilike like But Ibetter. I’ll count them I’ll count them tortoises better. tortoises better. I fall asleep. till till II’ll fall asleep. count them I’ll count them tillI Ifall fallasleep. asleep. till

tortoises TheThe tortoises moved so slow that by the moved so slow that by the The tortoises The tortoises time I finished counting time I finished counting thethe moved so slow that by moved so slow that by the last one it was morning last one it was morning the time I finished counting the time I already. finished counting the already. last one it was last one it wasmorning morning already. already.

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 37

In the UAE!

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ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 47

A letter to al

The Dreamers

Dear Reader, We are just at the start of another adventure this year. Are you excited to find out what this year has in store for you? I know I am! One way to get motivated this year is by having something to look forward to. You can do this by setting goals. I know sometimes we are afraid of setting goals because we fear disappointments. But, did you know that experience is the best teacher? Through the downfalls, we get to learn something new and even get more motivated to achieve our set goals. Wondering where to start? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, here are some few tips to guide you in achieving those little and big dreams.

Identify what you want to achieve What do you desire to accomplish? It is important you make it clear what you want to achieve to allow you to be more focused. For example, it could be something related to your studies, sports, eating healthier, learning a new skill and so on. Whatever it may be, write it down somewhere to ensure that you will not forget it. By identifying what you desire to achieve, you will be able to mentally prepare your mind which will enable you to achieve them with ease.

has already achieved what we are aiming for. Finding your inspiration also helps you not to give in easily when you encounter challenges.

Remember to have fun Regardless of what you are striving to achieve, do not place yourself under pressure. Find ways to reward yourself and have fun as youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re making your dreams come true. Picture it as

an adventure. As you continue with your journey to the unknown, your mind may be opened to different possibilities and may perhaps achieve even more than you expected. Here at Kidz.Blog!, we wish you all the best this year as you work towards your goals. Yours Sincerely, Cinta Gibbins

Find practical ways to achieve those goals Dreaming is not just enough! You must find ways to make those dreams come true. For instance if you wanted to perform better in a particular subject, be sure to practice more and ask for help when you encounter a problem. So find practical ways that will enable you to achieve your set goals and remember to always take breaks after doing some work to help you feel more relaxed.

Do not be disappointments

afraid

Working towards our goals can sometimes be very tough. It is okay to be afraid, but do not let your fear keep you from pursuing what you want. Failure only happens when we stop trying. So keep trying your best and put on a smile regardless of the outcome because you know in your heart you did all you could. That is what matters.

Find your inspiration This simply means find something or someone who keeps you motivated in achieving a particular goal. Do you have anyone who inspires you or want to make proud this year? Looking up to our role models enables us to find our dreams more realistic. This is because we know that someone else ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 49

How to make a

Paper Giraffe

Kriss Kross Fill in the four grids with the words provided. Fill in the grids with the words:

ANSWER:

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 51

TRUE or FLASE? Tick the correct box! 1. T

Mauritius is It is located in the South West of the Indian Ocean.

The oldest cockroach fossils are over 280 years old.

Young basketball players from UAE visited Manchester City FC.

Little Circuit Factory combine food education with circuit training.

5. T

Sunmarke school student celebrated the 46th National Day.

Regardless of what you are striving to achieve, do not place yourself under pressure.

It took Leonardo Da Vinci 1 year to paint Mona lisa.

Mauritius attained its independence in the year 1968.

The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Longest roller coaster is located in Ferray World. ANSWER: 1.True 2.False 3.False 4.True 5. False 6.True 7.False 8.True 9.False

Step by step

drawing tutorial!

ISSUE 38 -KIDZ.BLOG! 52

i Investment (DIP2) +971 50 143 1982UAE T. +971 88 77 878 P.O.M. Box: 41895 Dubai, Dubai4closer, Investment Park 2 (DIP2) ThePark day2you have dreamed about is coming faster than

you imagined with moments lots of things still pending from your To-Do mentsoccasion happy occasions @happymomentsoccasion list. Our dynamic team of event professionals will take care of all details and assist you to create an event that reflects your ideas, dreams and personality. Every detail of your event is flawlessly executed keeping in mind your budget and desires. P.O. Box: 41895 Dubai, UAE Dubai Investment Park 2 (DIP2)

M. +971 50 143 1982

T. +971 4 88 77 878

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T. +971 4 88 77 878

41895 Dubai, UAE Dubai Investment Park 50 143 1982 T. +971 4 88 77 878 stment Park 2 (DIP2) M. +971 50 143@happymomentsoccasion 19822 (DIP2) T. +971 4M. 88+971 77 878 happy moments occasions

soccasion

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happy moments occasions ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 53

Color by number!

“

If you’re walking down the right path and you’re willing to keep walking, eventually you’ll make progress. Barack Obama

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 55

Directory CELLO MUSIC & BALLET CENTRE Tel No.: +971 4 422 2452 info@cellodubai.com www.cellodubai.com CARTOON NETWORK ARABIC www.facebook.com/ CartoonNetworkArabic www.cartoonnetworkarabic.com ATLANTIS THE PALM Tel No.: +971 4 426 0000 www.thepalm.com VIRGIN MEGASTORE Jumeirah Beach Residence Rimal 1, Plaza level P.O. Box 22700 Dubai, UAE Tel No.: +971 4 439 3100 Fax: +971 4 437 0155 AL BASEL CONSULTANCY Your one stop for all your professional needs. Website: www.albaselgroup.com POWER TUTORING One-to-One Personal Tutoring. Small Groups max 5 Students. Development Courses. School entrance test prep. Based in Knowledge Village Book your free assessment today. Tel No.: 04 364 3080 www.powertutoring.com THE BRAIN & LEARNING 1103 Grosvenor Business Tower TECOM 3/Dubai Media City PO Box 454286, Dubai United Arab Emirates Tel No.: 04 - 453 4170 ATHLETIC KINGS Mob No.:+971 (0) 50 1155674 +971 (0) 50 1155672 Email: Olav@athletickings.com www.AthleticKings.me

IMAGE FACTOR For styling and shopping. Mob No.: +971 50 770 7105 E-mail: team@imagefactoruae.com www.imagefactoruae.com DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM Creek Park, Gate No.1 Riyadh Rd - Dubai Tel No.: 04 336 9773 www.dubaidolphinarium.ae T.H.E MUSIC INSTITUTE THE Music Institute JBR MURJAN 1 PLAZA LEVEL P06 The Walk @ JBR Mobile: 056 136 2928 Tel. No: 04 424 3 818 Uptown Mirdiff Mobile: 056 136 2928 Tel. No: 04 255 9 747 ACTIVE SPORTS ACADEMY Tel: +971 (0)50 559 7055 Email: sports@activeuae.com CHILDREN’S CITY Children’s City Dubai – located in Creek Park Gate 1 Telephone: (+9714) 334 0808 Email: childcity@dm.gov.ae SCHOOL TRANSPORT SERVICES Office No. 104 - 107, 1st FLOOR, Al Joud Building Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 339 7555 Fax: +971 4 346 5656. Toll Free No:800 STSS(800 7877) Email: info@stss.ae XXTREME SIMULATION ELECTRONIC GAME G05, Business Atrium Oud Metha/Umm Hurair 1 Dubai. P.O.Box 126191.UAE. Phone: (0)4-3967 230 (0)4-3967 230 Email: info@xxtremesimulation.com

The Brain Workshop Phone: +971 4 32 75 075 310 Jumeirah terrace building, Jumeirah info@thebrainworkshop.com www.thebrainworkshop.com SOCATOTS Phone: 04 448 1555 Dubai Sports City www.footballacademydubai.com BROOKLYN MELODIES MUSIC CENTER Address: Uptown Mirdif, Mirdif- St. 37, Jumeirah / Al Wasl Road, JBR- Rimal 3, Dubai Mall, Arabian Ranches, Studio City- BS08 Tel No.: + 971 4 2514098/ 2288951 +971 4 446 8716 Info@brooklynmelodies.com www.brooklynmelodies.com

SCHOOL LISTING FIND A SCHOOL NEAR YOU! DUBAI AMERICAN ACADEMY Al Barsha Tel No.: +9714 347 9222 EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Thanya Road-Jumeira Tel No.: +9714 348-9804 EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Meadows Tel No.: +9714 362 9009 AMERICAN SCHOOL OF DUBAI Al Barsha Tel No.: +9714) 395 0005 RAFFLES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Umm Suqeim Tel No.: +9714 427 1200 THE WINCHESTER SCHOOL Jebel Ali Tel No.: +9714 882 0444

GREENFIELD COMMUNITY SCHOOL Dubai Investments Park Tel No.: +9714 885 6600 JUMEIRAH BACCALAUREATE SCHOOL Jumeira Tel No.: +9714 344 6931 UPTOWN PRIMARY Mirdif Tel No.: +9714288 6270 OUR OWN INDIAN SCHOOL Al Quoz Tel No.: +9714 339 1188 PRISTINE PRIVATE SCHOOL AlGhusais, Al Nahda Tel No.: +9714267 4299 THE PHILIPPINE SCHOOL Rashidiya Tel No.: +9714 284 4465 REGENT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL The Greens, Emirates Living Community Tel No.: +9714360 8830 DUBAI INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY Emirates Hills Tel No.: +9714 368 4111 JUMEIRA ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL Jumeira Tel No.: +9714394 5515 HORIZON SCHOOL DUBAI Al Safa area Tel No.: +971434 22891 GEMS WELLINGTON PRIMARY SCHOOL +9714 343 3266 GEMS WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Sheikh Zayed Road Tel No.: +9714348 4999 GEMS ROYAL DUBAI SCHOOL Al Mizhar, Dubai Tel No.: +9714 348 4999 STAR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Mirdif Tel No.: 04 288 4644

ISSUE 39 -KIDZ.BLOG! 57

Horoscopes Capricorn

You will progress beautifully this year. This is mainly due to the love and support from your family and friends. Their love will generate you to the max.

Aquarius

Aries

Pisces

You will continue to do well with whatever you’re working on, however you may develop some boredom, yet your ambition will grow.

Time for you to distinguish between what’s real and what’s illusion. You’ll be able to safely figure it out and see everything as is.

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Scorpio

Libra

Virgo

Sagittarius

By focusing on your own well being, you will increase your grades, activity performance and health! This year is your chance to formulate a big change.

There’s a lot of good energy on your home this year. Embrace it and love everything about it.

This is your lucky year. Keep your eye out for lucky opportunities and don’t sink into self-doubt.

This year you will be very in tune with your senses. You will be able to think more clearly about others.

You may experience some emotional issues, however be kind, solutions will find you.

You have great people skills, so for 2017 make the most of them. Team up with kids who have the same interests as you and you all can do great things together.

Try not to overwork yourself this year. Relax and plan. There’s no limit to what you can achieve.

You have strong friends and allies with you! You should have a magnificent year.

Taking care of yourself and your loved ones has never been easier and more satisfying. Enjoy every minute of it.

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