The recent shift in weather means more time indoors. Instead of reaching for a generic distraction, why not use those rainy days as a fun, low-pressure opportunity to explore United States history with your children?

History is a great subject for this kind of home learning because it sparks curiosity and provides wonderful context for the world around us. We've compiled a list of kid-friendly, non-controversial suggestions for books, activities, and movies that are perfect for adolescents.

Dive into History: Book Suggestions

Biographies and series are often the best way to make history accessible and engaging for adolescents. These titles focus on inspirational figures, key documents, and foundational eras in an age-appropriate manner.

• The "Who Was...?" / "What Is...?" Series: These small, illustrated chapter books cover a huge range of people and topics, from George Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr. to What Is the Declaration of Independence? They provide an excellent, quick overview of a topic.

• Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly: An inspiring, true story about the brilliant Black female mathematicians who worked at NASA and were crucial to the space race. It's a wonderful lesson in STEM, perseverance, and civil rights.

• Everything You Need to Ace U.S. History in One Big Fat Notebook by Workman Publishing: Designed to look like a student's notes, this book breaks down complex topics into colorful, easy-to-read sections.

• A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution by Betsy Maestro: A straightforward, clear, and engaging explanation of how the U.S. Constitution was written and ratified.

Hands-On History: Indoor Activities

Use a rainy afternoon to make history an interactive experience with these simple, non-messy activities:

• Presidential Hat Project: Have your child research the different "Hats" (roles) of the U.S. President (e.g., Chief Executive, Commander-in-Chief). Then, challenge them to draw or craft a simple hat/symbol for each role using household materials like paper and markers.

• Create a Timeline Mural: Tape several pieces of printer paper together to form a long strip. Have your child create a timeline of a specific era they are learning about (like the Colonial period or the Westward Expansion), drawing and labeling major events or figures.

• "Design a State" Challenge: After researching the History of Utah or another state, have your child "found" their own imaginary state. They must design a state flag, write a short Preamble to its constitution (like a mission statement), and name its capital, explaining their historical choices.

• Historical Puppet Show: Encourage your student to write a short, simple script about two historical figures meeting (e.g., Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Edison). They can use simple hand puppets or action figures to stage the show for the family.

Screen Time, Smart Time: Movie Suggestions

Watching a family-friendly film can be a great way to bring history to life. Please note that parental guidance is always recommended for age-appropriate viewing:

• Liberty's Kids (TV Series): This animated series, often available on streaming services, is specifically designed for adolescents. It features two fictional young reporters who travel through the American Revolution, meeting real historical figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.

• Hidden Figures (PG): The live-action film adaptation of the book mentioned above, this movie is rated PG and is an uplifting, powerful story about three women who changed history.

• Night at the Museum (PG): While primarily a fantasy-comedy, this film's premise is set inside a museum and introduces many historical figures and artifacts (like Teddy Roosevelt, Sacagawea, and the Declaration of Independence). It can serve as a fun springboard for further research on the figures they find interesting.

• Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero (PG): An animated film based on the true story of a stray Boston Terrier who became the most decorated dog in World War I history. It offers a gentle introduction to the Great War's impact on America.