KidsCast

Wehrenberg Theatres Food Drive

Many communities throughout Missouri have a Wehrenberg Theatre and this Saturday (December 1) is their 2007 Cans Film Festival. The event helps collect food for needy families while giving those who donate,free movie tickets for any show before 5 o'clock. In order to get a free ticket, you have to bring 5 canned goods to the theatre.  If you bring 15 cans, you get an extra free ticket for the next time you go to the movies. Wehrenberg's partner in the event is the Salvation Army. 

Making the Perfect Holiday Craft

It's that time of year when many families decorate for the holidays.  Well you don't have to spend a lot of money when you can make fun and festive decorations on your own.  The website Amazing Moms has several craft ideas you can make with just a few art supplies at home.  Check out their Reindeer Treat Holder.  We'd love to see pictures of the holiday crafts you've made.  Send them in. 

Kids Talk About Avoiding Alcohol

We've announced our latest essay contest winner.  It's 5th grade student, Christopher, from Matthews Elementary School in Matthews Missouri.  Christopher wrote in about the physical problems alcohol can cause, as well as the emotional impact it can have.  Listen to this week's show to hear Christopher read his essay.  Then check out this month's contest topic and send in an essay of your own. 

Arbor Day Poster Contest

The new year is fast approaching and one thing Missouri 5th graders can take part in is the Missouri Department of Conservation and Missouri Community Forestry Council's Arbor Day Poster Contest.  The contest's theme is "Trees are Terrific...Inside and Out!"  Each school gets to pick a winner and enter their poster into the state competition.  The state winner gets a $50 savings bond and a trip to the national competition where they can win a $1,000 savings bond.  Plus the winning student's teacher will get money for classroom needs.  You have until January 12, 2008 to finish your poster.  Encourage your teacher to get a contest packet today. 

A Turkey Treat for Thanksgiving

There's usually a lot going on in the kitchen for Thanksgiving.  If you'd like to help, listen to this week's show for a festive treat to brighten up the holiday table.  It's a tasty turkey shaped dessert.  There's no cooking involved so that means no chance of burning the house down before guests arrive.  We'd love to have other recipes kids can make yourselves.  Write to us and give us your suggestions.  We'll post them here. 

Springfield 5th Graders Get Involved

KidsCast is all about keeping kids safe and healthy.  We shared that message with 5th graders in Dr. Gwen Burn's class at Mark Twain Elementary School in Springfield.  The students did a great job answering questions about what they can do to stay healthy. They were also fantastic when it came time to record features for our radio show.  Your class can get a visit from KidsCast too.  Just ask your teacher to contact us. 

Staying Physically Fit Inside

Winter will be here before you know it.  That means there could be days when it's too cold to play outside.  But it's still important to get exercise. Listen to this week's show for ideas about what you can do indoors to stay fit and healthy. Then write in and give us your tips for staying active in the indoors. 

A Fun Magazine for Kids

Today is magazine day.  And there are plenty out there to choose from.  But one that's been around for a long time...so long your grandparents probably remember it, is Highlights. This magazine is full of interesting facts and educational information.  You probably get to read Highlights at school.  But did you know there's also an interactive website just for kids?  There, you can find games, read stories not in the magazine and even create e-cards to send to your friends. Check it out and send us your review of the website. We love to hear what kids think!

It's Election Day

Voters are heading to the polls across the state. By the end of the day, your town could have a new Mayor or funding for a new playground.  It's all because of the people who head to the polls.  Listen to this week's show to learn a little about the process of Democracy that's taking place today.  Also check out Congress' kids page. They've got a fun quiz that lets you know how much you know about the voting process. 

Conservation for Kids

It's November now.  A great time to look up Missouri's Department of Conservation kids page.  Go there to check out Missouri nature.  Learn about animals and the rules for fishing and hunting in our state.  MDC Kids also has a fun game called leaf invaders and a calendar of events you can take part in.