Author: Lisa Mungovan

The search is on, for a giant tortoise boyfriend for Fernanda. She’s a Fernandina Giant Tortoise, that was found in the Galapagos Islands. Scientists had thought the species was extinct for 112 years, but apparently Fernanda was just good at hiding. They hope a male is also still around, so the species can survive.

Did you know, some sunscreens are harmful to coral reefs? It’s World Reef Awareness Day, and these important ecosystems are in trouble. Plastic pollution in the ocean, harmful chemicals from tourists’ sunblocks, or rising water temperatures of only 2-4 degrees Fahrenheit, can cause coral reefs to eventually die. Let’s all work to save the reefs!

Can’t find your shoes? Who cares! It’s Go Barefoot Day! Feel some lush grass, warm sand, or fuzzy carpet between your toes. It’s also Nail Polish Day, so paint your toenails. Make them look like dragon claws, and play Dungeons and Dragons, for TableTop Day. What’s your favorite tabletop game?

If you saw someone choking, could you help them? The Heimlich Maneuver is a method of using abdominal thrusts, to force air from the lungs, and force an object out of a victim’s airway. You can even do it on yourself, using a chair. Learn how to save a life, for Heimlich Maneuver Day!

You’re such a nice person! I like that shirt you’re wearing. Today is Say Something Nice Day. Complimenting someone can really brighten their day. Try it and see! It’s also Pen Pal Day. Texting and e-mail are easy ways to write to people, but sending a hand-written letter in the mail is something special.

The planet Earth has a lot of junk floating around it. There are over 23,000 bits of space debris, being tracked in low-Earth orbit. Pieces that are smaller than a softball, are too small to be tracked, and 1 of them recently damaged the International Space Station. Luckily, everything is still operational.

The common green tree frog found in Australia, has a new cousin in New Guinea. Scientists believe it’s a new species. The little frog is the color of chocolate, and is found in the lowland rainforests, in areas that are swampy and full of crocodiles. Maybe that’s why it hadn’t been discovered yet.

Do you wear headphones or earbuds when you’re watching videos? Maybe you listen to loud music. Today, on Save Your Hearing Day, try to give your ears a rest. Go outside and listen to the birds instead, or read a book and let your imagination furnish the sounds. Your ears will thank you!

Today is Speak In Complete Sentences Day. Your parents will be so surprised when they ask how your day was, and you don’t just answer, “Fine.” It’s also Smile Day. When you give someone a smile, they’ll usually give you one in return. Collect a bunch of smiles, and spread some happiness around!

Today is Memorial Day in the United States. Previously known as Decoration Day, it honors those who died, while serving in the military. The holiday also marks the unofficial beginning of summer, when pools and amusement parks usually open. The pandemic has changed some rules, but at least school’s nearly over!