Category: News for Kids

Summer Fun with Clever Hedgehog – July

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova
summer

Welcome to Summer Fun with Clever Hedgehog! 🌞

July is the second month of summer! This month, I will spend time with friends outside, soaking up the sun and a watermelon on my plate!

Find out where I’m going next weekend!

Solve a quiz for your age and see the answer.

p.s. Ask an adult for advice if you need help!

Issue #2, July:

Quiz for 3–5 years old “Something in Common”

👀 Look carefully at the pictures. Find objects that go together or look alike. They have something in common!

For example, they might all be round, all things you can eat, or all from the forest.

Check the answer

Row 1: summer clothes and the sun -> summer fun!

Row 2: paint brushes and the paints -> things you need for painting a picture.

Row 3: apple and watermelon -> healthy food.

Row 4: umbrella and rain -> things you need on a rainy day.

If you solved the quiz correctly, see the answer

Clever Hedgehog is so excited to go to a _PICNIC_ with his friends!

Have you ever been to a picnic? Ask your parents to take you to a picnic.

Delicious Quiz for 6–8 years old

Clever Hedgehog likes jams, especially strawberry, cherry, and raspberry.

👀 Look carefully at the pictures. The numbers in circles follow one pattern. Can you find the missing numbers in two circles, which show how many jars of each jam he has?

Check the answer

Practice addition. The number in the large circle is equal to the sum of the numbers in the small circle.

Strawberry Jam: 6+2+2=10

Raspberry Jam: 5+6+4=15

Cherry Jam: 3+5+4=12

If you solved the quiz correctly, see the answer

Clever Hedgehog is going to a _PICNIC_ with his friends!

What snacks do you usually take to a picnic? What is your favorite jam?

Jigsaw Quiz for 8–10 years old

👀 Solve the jigsaw puzzle

Do you see 6 letters in the picture? Make a word out of these letters.

Hint: that will be the answer to where Clever Hedgehog is going next weekend.

Check your answer

Clever Hedgehog is going to a _PICNIC_ with his friends!

You can also organize a picnic for your friends and family! What snacks will you bring?

Check our June Edition in case you missed it >>>

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tags: summer activities for kids, how to keep children busy in the summer, coloring pages, quiz for 5-year-olds, riddles for kids, quizzes for children

Celebrate American Independence Day with Clever Hedgehog!

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

What is American Independence Day?

Every year on July 4th, America celebrates its Independence Day! Independence Day is like a birthday! This year, America will turn 249 years old! 🎉

American Independence Day is a holiday that Americans celebrate each year since the United States of America gained its independence from Great Britain. It’s like a birthday for a country! 🇺🇸

In this post:

Where is Great Britain, and where is the United States of America? 🌎

💬 Great Britain is an island made of three different countries. Today, we call these countries England, Scotland, and Wales. Great Britain is located very close to Europe, especially northern France!
💬 The United States of America is located all the way across the Atlantic Ocean from Great Britain! Today, the United States of America is made of 50 different states.

Can you find the United States of America and Great Britain on the map?

Fun Facts about the USA and its Independence Day

The original United States of America was made of 13 colonies on the East Coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Look at the map!

The Thirteen Colonies of America

image: wikimedia

Do you live in one of these states?

Can you name the original 13 colonies?

Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

The original United States of America flag had 13 stars and 13 stripes! Today, the flag has 50 stars and 13 stripes! The stars represent each state in the country, and the 13 stripes represent the original 13 colonies.

image: wikimedia

How many stars can you count on this flag?

The very first Independence Day celebration was actually on July 8th, 1776, not July 4th, 1776!

How do you think people celebrated the holiday before the fireworks were invented?

Let’s play new fun games

“Freeze Dance” Game

Recommended age: 3-5 y.o.

2 players and more

Read how to play “Freeze Dance”:

Equipment – use a device to play music or create your own music by clapping, stomping, whistling, etc.; large space 

Setting Up – search for age- appropriate music if using a device for music

How to Play:

The steps can be continued multiple times to play multiple rounds of Freeze Dance.  The adult can change the music or how the children freeze each round. 

Children should be in a space large enough to dance/roam around.

The adult will play the music for a period of time of their choosing.

While the music is playing, children will dance and roam around the space.

Randomly, the adult will pause the music.

When the music is paused, children will need to freeze (in a pose, as they are, expressing a specific emotion, etc.).

How to Play “Copycat Pat”

Recommended age: 6-8 y.o.

3 or more people

Read how to play “Copycat Pat”:

Equipment: none 

Setting Up – one child will be selected to be in charge

How To Play: Sit in order from left to right, with the player at the very left being the player in charge.

The players who is selected will say the words “Copycat Pat, Pat your (by a body part (for example, leg)”. 

The player in charge MUST say a different body part than the one they touch, otherwise they are out and everyone moves up a spot and there is a new child in charge.  For example, if the child in charge says “Copycat pat, pat your chin” and touches their chin, they are out.  All players will move up a spot and the person furthest on the left is now the child in charge.

While the player in charge is saying their chant, the others will do two pats on their thighs, followed by two claps with their hands.  The players should watch the player in charge the entire time.

When the player in charge finishes their chant, the other players have to pat exactly what the child in charge said.  For example, if the player in charge says “Copycat pat, pat your cheek,” the others are expected to pat their cheeks.

If a player pats the wrong body part, they move to the very last spot on the right.  All the other players will move up one spot.  The player in charge will not move.

Repeat these steps over and over to have various rounds.  If the player in charge has been in that position for a while, he can step in and ask everyone to move up one spot so a different player can be in charge.

Keep playing as long as you’d like.

“The Floor is Lava” Game

Recommended age: 8-10 y.o.

4 or more people

Read how to play “The Floor is Lava”:

Equipment: a large space; cones or lines to mark the “start” and “end” zones; three sheets of paper for each team 

Setting Up – create “start” and “end” zones; split children into teams (the number of children on each team will depend on the amount of children total); supply each team with three sheets of paper.

How To Play:

One person per team will start with the sheets of paper and attempt to start a “covered” path from the start zone to the end zone.

Children may only step on the paper, since the rest of the floor is “lava.” 

Teams have to work together to make sure all members of the team cross into the end zone.

Whatever team crosses all players into the end zone first wins.

Various rounds of this can be played.  Adults can also switch up the teams after each round to allow children to work with different people

Keep playing as long as you’d like.

Game “Clever Hedgehog Hide-and-Seek”

Help Clever Hedgehog find 7 stars

Hold your mobile device horizontally for a better view

ch gifts quiz
Go to Clever Hedgehog’s Library

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Clever Hedgehog turns two years old!

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

Happy birthday, сlever Hedgehog!

Thank you for coming to my celebration!

Today is my 2nd birthday, and I’m so happy to celebrate it with you, my amazing friends! 💛

We’ve had so much fun together — reading books 📚, making crafts ✂️, singing songs 🎶, playing games 🎲 — all on my website, which is a special place where Ukrainian families with children can find fun, safe, and educational activities — completely free!

Thank you for being part of my journey! 🥳

In this post:

I received many warm greetings, and I especially liked:

💬 “Happy Birthday, Hedgehog! I love reading your fairy tales and interesting facts about nature!” — Marko B., age 6
💬 “I wish you even more fun books and games on your website!” — Sofiia, age 8
💬 “You’re my favorite hedgehog in the whole world!” — Andriyko, age 5

Write a birthday message to Clever Hedgehog 🎁

Find a surprise for you below 👇👇👇 Keep scrolling! 👇👇👇

Write a wish to Clever Hedgehog

LET’S CELEBRATE 🥳

Quiz “How much do you know about the Hedgehog?”

Choose one option for answering each question. Check your answers at the end.

❓ 1. What does Clever Hedgehog love the most?




❓ 2. What color are Clever Hedgehog’s glasses?




❓ 3. What is Clever Hedgehog’s favorite season?




❓ 4. What does Clever Hedgehog do when he is sad?




❓ 5. What other language does Clever Hedgehog know?




🌟 RESULTS:

Unfold and see the answers:

1) b -Clever Hedgehog has read all the books from his library, 2) b , 3) c (summer, when Clever Hedgehog has a birthday), 4) А, 5) c (check Ukrainian version of the website)

Maze game “Help Clever Hedgehog get to the cake”

Hold your mobile device horizontally for a better view

ch gifts quiz

Game “Find a gift”

Which of his friends gave delicious gifts to Clever Hedgehog

Hold your mobile device horizontally for a better view

ch gifts quiz
Go to Clever Hedgehog’s Library

Let’s remember how we celebrated my first birthday here >>>

Our achievements this year

1. Translated into Ukrainian and added 20 new books to the Clever Hedgehog’s Library together with United for Literacy

2. Updated the website with 14 fun news items about various important events.

3. Held 2 webinars for Ukrainian teachers and librarians about how this site can be used to teach and entertain children.

4. Participated in the Osvitoria.Media award 2025 and became a nominee in the “Identity +” category.

5. Added a lot of new materials to the site in the “Crafts” and “Coloring Pages” sections.

MOVING FORWARD WITH YOUR SUPPORT!

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Summer Fun with Clever Hedgehog – June

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

Welcome to Summer Fun with Clever Hedgehog! 🌞

School’s out and sunny days are here! That means it’s the perfect time to play, explore, and discover new things with Clever Hedgehog.

On this page, you’ll find lots of fun activities to enjoy in summer —from songs and colorful crafts to exciting stories and games. Whether you’re at home, at the park, or on vacation, Clever Hedgehog is ready to join you for some summer adventures!

So grab your favorite snack, find a comfy spot, and click around to see what’s waiting for you!

p.s. Parents, we’ve made everything safe, easy, and full of joy, so your little ones can stay curious and creative all summer.

Issue #1, June:

🎲 Game “Roll A Die” (for 5-10 y.o)

Roll the die* 🎲 and do the task under the number that came up on the die (or click on the pictures)

*If you don’t have a die at home, print out this template. Cut and glue it together to make a real paper die!

You will also need: paper for drawing and origami, pencils, eraser, ruler, scissors, and glue.

📘 Guess the word (for 6-10 y.o)

Solve 3 riddles

📘 Let’s Read (for 3-8 y.o.)

We read – we get smarter!

🎦 Sesame Cinema (for 3-8 y.o.)

Fun cartoons dedicated to math, science, health and safety of children

Turtle Learns to Draw It Out

Elmo Learns How to Make His Kite Lighter

Elmo’s World – Cooking

⚽ More Crafts (for 4-8 y.o.)

Download- Summer Fun Activity PDF Printable

All printouts

Download – In the Sea – Coloring page

All Coloring Pages

Download – Travel Activity PDF Printable

All Printouts

Active Game “At the bottom of the sea”

5 or more players

Read how to play “At the Bottom of the Sea”:

Equipment: no equipment is needed, just a spacious area to play.

Setting Up: Select one player to be the “Caller.” The Caller will give the commands to the other players.

How to Play:

All players, except the Caller, stand in the middle of the playing area.

The Caller stands at one end of the playing area and shouts commands related to sea animals or actions.

The commands can be:

“At the bottom of the sea, you might find… a shark!” (Players can pretend to swim like a shark)

“At the bottom of the sea, you might find… a seaweed!” (Players can sway like seaweed)

“At the bottom of the sea, you might find… a crab!” (Players can walk sideways like a crab)

Players must act out the command given by the Caller. The more imaginative the actions, the better!

The Caller can try to trick players by giving unexpected commands or saying something unrelated to the sea. For example: “At the bottom of the sea, you might find… a giraffe!”

Players should not move because giraffes don’t belong in the sea.

Getting Caught: If a player acts out a command that is not related to the sea, they are out and must sit on the sidelines.

The game continues until there is only one player left standing. This player can then become the new Caller.

Variations: All players can sing this song while they perform the Caller’s command (listen to the melody here https://shorturl.at/ssj7Y):

At the bottom of the sea

All the fish are swimming

Here and there and everywhere

Oh, so many things you see!

All Games

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tags: summer activities for kids, how to keep children busy in the summer, coloring pages, summer crafts for kids, riddles for kids, do with children in the summer

A Letter from Clever Hedgehog on International Children’s Day

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

Hi there, friend! 🦔💛! It’s me, your Clever Hedgehog!

I’m so happy I get to write to you on this very special first day of summer — Children’s Day! 🌞🌈

This is your holiday! You are a real superhero discovering this big, exciting world every single day! 🌍

Not long ago, we were just a small team of friends. But now, there are many of us. And it’s all thanks to you! Yes, you, because you read, play, and learn new things with me.

You support my website, inspire me and my team to create new fun things for you!

So I want to say a big thank you! Thank you for being you, for your curiosity, and for your bright, kind smiles.
I’m so proud of you. And I’m so happy we’re friends!

🎈 May this summer be full of magic for you — with fun adventures, friends, ice cream, high-flying kites, bedtime stories, and love from your family.

💡 And to make this day even more fun, I have prepared a surprise for you! (Scroll down)…

With love, hugs, summer joy, and little bursts of kindness —
Your Clever Hedgehog 💛

🌞 What Is Your Summer Spirit?

Answer these fun questions to discover which animal will inspire you this summer!

Choose one answer (a, b, c, or d) for each question. Count how many times you picked each letter!

❓ 1. What’s your perfect summer day?

a) Drawing outside with colorful chalk. 🎨
b) Reading a new book in a cozy corner. 📚
c) Telling fun facts and stories to your friends. 🗣️
d) Running through the sprinkler with your buddies. 💦

❓ 2. If you could pick a summer superpower, it would be…

a) Paint everything you touch with colors. 🌈
b) Understand every language in the world. 🧠
c) Know cool facts about space, science, and animals. 🚀🐘
d) Jump super high and run super fast. 🏃‍♂️

❓ 3. What snack sounds best after playing outside?

a) A popsicle with fun shapes and colors. 🍧
b) Alphabet crackers. 🔤
c) A mystery-flavor jellybean. 🍬
d) A juicy watermelon slice. 🍉

❓ 4. Your favorite kind of summer activity is…

а) Do various crafts and origami. 🎨
b) Do jigsaw puzzles. 🧩
c) Play board games and trivia with friends. 🤓
d) Tag, hide-and-seek, or jump rope. 🏃‍♀️

❓ 5. What’s your favorite thing to bring on a picnic?

a) Coloring books and markers. 🖍️
b) A book or a nature guide. 🦋
c) A camera to take pictures of nature and friends.
d) A frisbee or ball. 🎾

🌟 Results

Count which answer letters you have the most!

Scroll Down

Mostly A’s

panda

Your Summer Spirit is the Creative Panda!

You’re full of imagination, color, and cool ideas! Pandas like you love to draw, paint, craft, and create things with their hands.
🎨 This summer, try: sidewalk chalk art, painting your own summer scenes, or making postcards for your friends!

Grab your crayons and let’s make summer bright and colorful with coloring pages

Download – Under the sea – Coloring page

Mostly B’s

owl

Your Summer Spirit is the Wise Owl!

You’re clever, curious, and love to learn. Owls like you enjoy reading books, exploring new topics, and discovering the meanings of things.
📚 This summer, try: reading a new story each week, or learning new words and phrases from other languages!

Download the printable fun for the whole family!

Download – Summer Fun Activity Pack

See All Prinrables here>>>

Mostly C’s

panda

Your Summer Spirit is the Friendly Cat!

You’re smart, talkative, and fun to be around. Cats like you love sharing what they know and making others smile!
🧠 This summer, try: learning fun facts about animals, space, etc, — then wow your family and friends with what you know! or keeping a journal of cool facts

Read new Fun Facts About Children (you won’t believe how cool you all are!)

Read Fun Facts about Children

Mostly D’s

panda

Your Summer Spirit is the Rolling Hedgehog!

You’re active, playful, and always moving. Hedgehogs like you love to play games, be outside, and roll into new adventures!
🌳 This summer, try: playing tag, making obstacle courses, going on nature walks, or riding your bike with friends!

Gather your friends and play this game.

Active Game “Red Rover”

Download – Game Rules

Read more: Clever Hedgehog on International Children’s Day – June 1

🌞 Read and get smarter!!

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tags: fun facts about kids, un facts about children, coloring pages, summer crafts for kids, fun test for kids

Mother’s Day – How to Honor Moms in Thoughtful Ways

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova
Clever Hedgehog has some gift ideas for children to make Mother's Day extra special

Hi kids! This Sunday, May 11, 2025, will be extra special for us. It’s Mother’s Day! 

Mother’s Day is a special day when every child can say to their mother: “Thank you for being you!” A mother is a person who is always there, supports, teaches and loves.

Clever Hedgehog wants you to remember the most important qualities of a mother and think about how to make her happy:

Love that never ends

A mother’s love is the warmest and strongest feeling in the world. She hugs us when we’re sad, kisses us goodnight, and always believes in us — even when we’re unsure.
👉 You can show love to your mom by giving her a big hug, drawing a picture for her, or telling her how much you love her. That will make her heart smile!

Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog, Happy spring coloring page, a gift to my mom
Download – DIY Mother’s Day 3D Card

Caring every single day

Mom always makes sure we wear a warm scarf and hat when it’s cold, that our tummies are full, and that we get enough rest. She cares about us in big and small ways every day.
👉 You can care for Mom too—by bringing her a cup of tea, helping set the table, or letting her rest while you tidy up your toys.

Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog, Happy spring coloring page, a gift to my mom

Kindness that warms your heart

Moms are kind when they help us with homework, listen to our stories, or wipe away our tears. Even when they’re tired, their kindness never runs out.
👉 You can be kind back by saying “thank you,” writing her a sweet note, or giving her a handmade flower.

Download – Flowers for mom – Coloring page

Always there for you

No matter what, Mom is always on your side. She stays up when you’re sick and cheers you on when you’re doing your best.
👉 To thank her, you can sing her a special song, help with simple chores, or just spend time with her.

Listen to the song and learn the lyrics.

Download Mother’s Day Songs Lyrics

Fairness and understanding

Moms try to understand your feelings and teach you what’s right and wrong with patience.
👉 You can show respect by listening to Mom, being honest, and trying your best to follow her kind advice.

You can help your mom with chores: Read this BOOK – Doing Chores to get ideas

Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog, Happy spring coloring page, a gift to my mom

More ideas:

1. Take a photo with your mom or capture a special moment you shared. Get creative! You can dress up, make funny faces, or show off your favorite activity with Mom!

🌟 Send your photo to us with your story of why your mom is the best at storieswithcleverhedgehog@gmail.com, and we will publish your story on our website! (Don’t forget to add your name and age)

2. Read our other post with gift ideas for children on Mother’s Day>>>>

Tell your mom some fun facts about Mother’s Day >>>

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tags: Mother’s Day gift ideas for kids, gift ideas for children on Mother’s Day

Easter fun with Clever Hedgehog – EASTER QUIZ FOR KIDS

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova
Easter for kids with Clever Hedgehog

Hello, friends!
Easter is one of the happiest and most colorful holidays of the year. It’s a time for joy, tasty treats, painted eggs, and spending time with your family. But do you know why we celebrate Easter? Or what different countries do to mark this special day?

🌟Let’s play a fun quiz and learn some exciting facts about Easter in Ukraine and around the world!

🏛️ What is Easter

Easter is a holiday that celebrates new life, hope, and love. For many people, it is the day when Jesus Christ came back to life. But Easter is also a time to enjoy spring, be kind to others, and feel thankful for what we have.

The name “Easter” comes from ancient traditions that celebrated the arrival of spring. When Christianity came to many countries, Easter became a way to honor the resurrection of Jesus.

In Ukraine, the holiday is full of deep traditions like baking paska (Easter bread), decorating pysanky (Easter eggs), and going to church at night with candles. In other countries, like the USA, Easter often includes egg hunts and chocolate bunnies!

🌷Fun Easter Facts from Around the World

1. In the Canadian town of Vegreville, you can see the sculpture of the largest Easter egg in the world, which weighs over 2 tons!

Vegreville_pysanka

Myke2020, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

2. 🇦🇺 In Australia, the Easter Bunny has competition! Many Aussies prefer the Easter Bilby, a native animal, to raise awareness for endangered species.

3. 🇩🇪 Germany is believed to be the birthplace of the Easter Bunny, where it was first mentioned in writing in the 1600s!

4. 🇧🇲 In Bermuda, people fly homemade kites on Good Friday to symbolize Jesus rising into the sky.

5.🇺🇦 In Ukraine, Easter eggs (pysanky) are decorated with beeswax and natural dyes — some have been found that are over 100 years old!

6. 🇧🇷 In Brazil, people make large dolls (called “Judas”) filled with fireworks, then explode them to show that good wins over bad.

Now you are ready for the holiday quiz!!! Scroll down

EASTER QUIZ FOR KIDS

1.🌸 What season is Easter celebrated in?





2. What baby bird is a symbol of Easter?





3. What do you follow in egg hunts?





4. 🍞 What is the name of the special Easter bread in Ukraine?





5.How many days are in Holy Week?





Check your answers
  1. b
  2. b
  3. a
  4. а
  5. c

Is Easter always on the same day every year?

No.

Easter doesn’t happen on the same date every year. It is always on a Sunday, but the exact day changes because it depends on the moon and when spring begins. That’s why sometimes Easter is in March and sometimes in April!” 🐣🌸

💦 What do people do in Ukraine on Easter Monday for fun?

Splash water

The second day of Easter, the Monday after Easter is called ” Wet Monday”. It was believed that water on Easter Monday becomes healing and heals people. Therefore, people poured (or sprinkled) water on each other and themselves.

What do we call the colorful eggs made in Ukraine?

Pysanky

Well done! Scroll down

Choose your reward!

Spin the wheel and find out which number to look for Easter fun from Clever Hedgehog

fun activities for kids, free books

Easter coloring page

Download a coloring page

Free Easter activity coloring
FREE Download – Easter basket coloring page

Easter egg game

Play a fun Easter egg game.

Easter printable

Download an Easter printable

Download FREE – Easter activity pack

Paper Craft “Box for Easter eggs and sweets”

Make a holiday box with this template.

EASTER TRINKET BOX
Download – EASTER TRINKET BOX – Cut-and-glue Activity

This project may require adult’s assistance

Paper Craft Ornament “Easter Egg”

Make a holiday decoration with this template.

Download FREE – Paper Craft Ornament Easter Egg

Easter Brain Break

Turn on the video and move!

Easter Brain Break

Turn on the video and move!

Cut-and-Glue Easter Card “Easter basket” with bookmarks

Download the template

Download – Easter Card “Easter basket” with bookmarks – Cut-and-Glue

READ About interesting Easter traditions in different countries >>>

More creative projects

How to make a basket from paper

Easter Basket Folding Surprise

An Easter Egg Stack Folding Surprise

Easter Day Song

Lyrics

Easter day,
Oh, Easter day.
Let’s go out
To laugh and play.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Easter bunny on my way
Hides the eggs and hops away.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Yellow eggs
And red and blue,
Such a joy for me and you.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Fluffy feathers,
Bunny beaks,
Happy Easter, little chicks.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Rainy clouds go away.
It’s the time to sing and play.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Easter day,
Oh Easter day,
Smiling faces on my way.
How I wonder
What you bring
Lovely day of spring!

Send us your photos or video to our email storieswithcleverhedgheog@gmail.com or tag us on Instagram and Facebook with  #CleverHedgehogCrafts

READING TIME

English Book Collection Ukrainian Book Collection Failytales Collection
Back to Clever Hedgehog’s Library

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tags: preparing for Easter, books about Easter eggs, Easter origami, about Easter for children, I explore the world

A special update for International Children’s Book Day​! 

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova
Hedgehog reading a book

Hello, friends! 👋

Today, we have a special update for International Children’s Book Day​! 

We will read a special fairy tale written by Clever Hedgehog, learn about a famous fairy tale author, and read more fun books!

Read a fairy tale by Clever Hedgehog

How the children got into a fairy tale

Once upon a time, there were a brother and sister named Andriyko and Mariyka. Their favorite time of day was in the evening when their mother read them fairy tales. They always awaited these moments, as each story opened a magical world of adventures.​

“Mariyka, what do you think Mom will read to us tonight?” Andriyko asked his sister.​

“Probably my favorite story about ‘The Sister Fox‘!” the girl replied. “And what about you?”​

“I’d like the one about ‘Two Bear Cubs and the Fox.’ “​

фото: AI

Just then, their mother entered the room with a new thick book and said, “Tonight, we’ll read fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen.” 

“Interesting!” the children thought as they listened attentively.​ But it was already late; the children’s eyes closed, and they… found themselves in a fairy-tale kingdom. Mariyka suddenly realized she was sitting on a massive pile of mattresses as if she were some princess. But something was pressing uncomfortably from below, making it unbearable to sit, so she jumped down to the floor.

She looked around and saw a desk in the corner of the room. There she saw Andriyko, who was crying. She ran up to him and asked, “Andriyko, why are you crying?”​

The boy looked at her and said, “I’m not Andriyko; I’m the famous writer Hans Christian Andersen, and I’m writing a sad tale about a duckling that everyone rejects.”

A Furry Thief (Sister Fox) Казка Лисичка-сестричка

And just as he said this, from somewhere far away, their mother’s voice rang out loudly, saying: “And that’s the end of the tale!”​

In an instant, the children found themselves back in their room, eyes wide open.​

Then their mother asked: “So, which tale did you like more—’The Princess and the Pea‘ or ‘The Ugly Duckling‘?”​

The children just looked at each other and thought: “What a dream that was!”​

A Furry Thief (Sister Fox) Казка Лисичка-сестричка

фото: AI

🦊🦆👩📚

Read this story in Ukrainian

  • Back to the fairy tales list

Now, let’s learn who Hans Christian Andersen was and why International Children’s Book Day is celebrated on his birthday.​

Hans Christian Andersen – the famous fairy tale author

Hans Christian Andersen was a famous Danish writer, born on April 2, 1805, in the city of Odense, Denmark. He became famous for his fairy tales, which are known to children and adults worldwide. Throughout his life, Andersen wrote over 150 fairy tales, including well-known stories like “Thumbelina,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Snow Queen,” and “The Ugly Duckling“. “The Ugly Duckling” is considered one of his most famous tales.

Andersen is famous for his children’s stories, but he also wrote tales for adults. Hans Christian Andersen loved to draw and make intricate paper cuttings, which he often gave as gifts to his friends. Andersen loved to travel, and his adventures often appeared in his fairy tales. For example, The Ugly Duckling was inspired by his own life story. Many statues of Andersen exist worldwide, and in his hometown, Odense (Denmark), there is even a museum dedicated to his life and works!

📖💫 Do you like Andersen’s fairy tales? What’s your favorite? 😊

fairy tale Princess and green pea
The Ugly Duckling Story
Clever hedgehog books

International Children’s Book Day​

Since 1967, April 2nd, the birthday of the great storyteller Hans Christian Andersen has been celebrated worldwide as International Children’s Book Day.  This holiday emphasizes the important role of children’s literature in shaping the spiritual and intellectual outlook of new generations.​

Children’s books are not just for entertainment. They help children understand the world, develop imagination, and teach empathy and kindness. Through images understandable to children, these books tell about life, showing various life situations and helping the little ones overcome difficulties.​

Did you know?

The first illustrated children’s book in the world

A book called “Orbis Sensualium Pictus” (“The World of Sensual Things in Pictures”) written by Czech teacher Jan Amos Comenius back in the 17th century was the first book to combine text with pictures, like in a textbook.

Books in miniature

In 1996, the University of Iowa Libraries received a special gift of over 4,000 mini-books from Charlotte M. Smith. She had collected these tiny books over the years, and they span a variety of time periods, from the 17th century to the present. 📚

The first children’s book in Ukraine

In Ukraine, the first printed book for children appeared even earlier, in 1574. It was “Bukvar”, published by the famous printer Ivan Fedorov in Lviv. This little book helped children learn letters and learn to read. It contained the alphabet, reading samples and exercises that made the learning process easier and more interesting.

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Read books, immerse yourselves in magical worlds, and discover new horizons of knowledge and adventures!

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If you also have an idea or material, and dream of creating a similar book – write us a letter at storieswithcleverhedgehog@gmail.com and maybe your book will be the next to delight children in the library on the #CleverHedgehogLibrary

Fun Activities with Clever Hedgehog

Solve the crossword

Crossword – International Children’s Book Day – Printable version – download PDF file
First day of school Coloring page for kids, Clever Hedgehog in school
Download – Clever Hedgehog in the library – coloring page
Clever hedgehog's BOOKMARKS
Download – Clever Hedgehog’s Bookmarks – Cut-out Activity
“The Magic mitten” cut-and-glue activity
Download – The Magic mitten – Cut-and-glue Activity
Little Library Collection Box
Download – PAPER TRINKET BOX – Cut-and-glue Activity

This project may require adult’s assistance

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tags: Hans Christian Andersen, International Children’s Book Day, fairy tales for children

Spring Has Arrived! Birds are singing! About Spring For Children 🌸

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

Hello, little explorers! 👋

The cold is going away, and the snow is turning into puddles! Spring is here 🌷!

Soon, trees will get green leaves back, and pretty flowers will pop up everywhere! And all the sleepy animals, like bears and hedgehogs, will wake up from their long winter naps! And beautiful birds will return from warm countries!

Why Do Seasons Change?

In places like where we live, spring comes in March 🌸, but in other parts of the world, like Australia, spring starts in September! It’s like they have their party at a different time! 🥳 🌞 But why do the seasons change?

Well, our planet Earth 🌏 moves around the Sun ☀️! But because the Earth is a bit tilted when it spins, different parts of the world get more sunshine at different times of the year. That’s why we have seasons: 

🔹 When one side of Earth leans toward the Sun, it is summer.
🔹 When it leans away, it is winter.
🔹 The time between them, when the days start getting warmer or cooler, is spring and autumn!

why seasons change
Countries with Different Seasons

Countries With Different Seasons

Some places, like where we might live, get to have four seasons: spring with flowers 🌸, summer with sunshine ☀️, fall (autumn) with colorful leaves 🍂, and winter with snow ❄️! 

But other places, near the middle of the Earth (the equator) or way up north or down south (near the poles), have only two seasons: a rainy season 🌧️ with lots of splashing, and a dry season ☀️ with lots of sunshine! 

Some lucky places, like Hawaii and the Philippines, are warm all year round! 🌴 It’s like they’re always having a summer vacation!

Fun Facts About Things Happening In Spring! 🌷

1️⃣ The days get longer in spring, which means more time to play outside!
2️⃣ The first flowers, like tulips and daffodils, reappear and start blooming. 🌺
3️⃣ Animals wake up from hibernation, like bears and hedgehogs! 🐻🦔
4️⃣ Many birds come back from warm countries. 🐦
5️⃣ Farmers plant new crops to grow food. 🌾
6️⃣ Spring Cleaning Time! Many people clean their houses in the spring to get rid of winter dust. 🧹
7️⃣Many cultures celebrate spring as a time of new beginnings and hope with Spring Festivals. 🎉

By Hans, Pixabay

Easter, the most important holiday for many people around the world, is happening in Spring. Read about Eater Traditions in different countries.

By 663highland, Wikipedia

In Japan, people have a festival called Hanami, when they enjoy cherry blossoms on a family picnic in parks 🌸.

By Steven Gerner – Flickr

In India, Holi is celebrated as the Festival of Colours, Love, and Spring. People playfully throw colored powder and water at each other, signifying a time of joy and renewal. 

Birds Return From Warm Countries In Spring! 🕊️

One of the biggest signs of spring is the return of birds from warm countries.

Many birds fly south for the winter. However, some common winter birds stay in the same place year-round. Let’s meet some of them!

Birds of the USA

Birds That Stay for Winter

These birds stay all winter: Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, American Goldfinch, House Finch, House Sparrow, Blue Jay, Great Horned Owl 🦉, Northern Cardinal, 🦅 Bald Eagle (National bird of the USA)

Migratory Birds in the USA

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are known for their extraordinary flight capabilities. They can “freeze” in air, fly forwards and backward, and even upside down.
Canada Goose – the largest goose and maybe most common bird across the country, nesting on park lakes and reservoirs.
Sandhill Crane is among the most iconic migratory waterbirds in North America.

Rare birds that can be found in the USA 

California Condor isn’t just the largest bird in North America, it’s also the rarest. California Condors are also long-lived birds, surviving up to 60 years in the wild.

Whooping Crane is an incredible bird and the tallest bird in North America. Currently, there are only about 600 whooping cranes.

Birds of the USA


Birds of Ukraine

Birds That Stay for Winter

These birds stay all winter: Western barn owl, Domestic pigeon, Eurasian blue tit, House sparrow, Common Woodpecker, Crow, Jackdaw, Peregrine falcon, Bullfinch, and Magpie.

Migratory Birds in Ukraine

The first to return are the rooks, wild geese, starlings, nightingales, larks, and:

Swallows are remarkable long-distance flyers.
Wild Duck (mallard) can be found in all flyways and almost any freshwater habitat.
Common Crane – Every two years, before migration, an adult Common Crane loses old feathers and gets a brand-new outfit! It takes about six weeks for all the new feathers to grow. Then, whoosh! It can fly again on its amazing journey!

Special birds in Ukraine🐦

White Stork – the national symbol of Ukraine. A new tradition to celebrate “Stork Day” on March 23 has spread in Ukraine.

Common Nightingale – the national bird of Ukraine, which symbolizes happiness. It is said it comes to cheer up the people.

Birds of Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destroyed the habitats of many bird species.

Did you know?

In Japan, a crane (or Tsuru in Japanese) is a symbol of honor, good fortune, loyalty, and longevity. The Japanese believed that anyone with the patience and commitment to fold 1,000 origami cranes would be given good fortune and granted a wish.

Learn how to make an origami crane from the video:

Read this article About signs of spring and what fun things you can do in spring

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Solve the code to read the secret message. Each bird has a hint.

Type your secret message in the box:

Check your answer

Welcome Spring

Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog
Download – Spring Coloring page

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Spring Fun Activity PDF Printable

Download PDF – Spring Fun Activity Pack

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How to Draw Spring Blossoms

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tags: about spring for kids, why seasons change, countries with four seasons, countries with two seasons, spring festivals, books about spring for kids, birds in the USA, birds in Ukraine, coloring pages about spring, about birds for kids

Valentine’s Day for friends with Clever Hedgehog

Posted on | by Olga Zhestkova

Hello, friends!

😊 It is Valentine’s Day – a special day when we show love and kindness to family and friends. It happens every year on February 14th. 

🌟Do you know why we celebrate it, and what makes this day so special? 

Let’s find out with Clever Hedgehog!

How did Valentine’s Day come to be? 

People started celebrating Valentine’s Day a long time ago, in the 5th century AD. At that time in Rome (Italy), the emperor Claudius II didn’t want people to get married, believing married men wouldn’t like to become his soldiers. But there was a priest named Valentine who wanted to help people. He continued to hold wedding ceremonies in secret.

When the emperor found out, he put Valentine in jail. Even in jail, Valentine kept spreading love and kindness. He became friends with the jailer’s daughter, and before he died, he wrote her a love note, signing it “From Your Valentine.” 

That’s how people believe Valentine’s Day started, and the tradition spread worldwide.

Valentine's Day history for kids

Why do we see hearts and roses everywhere on Valentine’s Day? 

We see hearts and roses ❤️🌹 because they are symbols of Valentine’s Day. But there are more symbols too!

What Are the Symbols of Valentine’s Day?

❤️ Hearts – The most famous symbol of love! They represent love and affection.

🌹 Flowers – Especially red roses, which symbolize deep love.

🍫 Heart-shaped Chocolate – Sweets are a delicious way to show you care.

💌 Valentine’s cards – Sent to friends and family with kind words. They are the easiest way to say what you feel.

On Valentine’s Day, you can see these symbols everywhere, on candies, balloons, and on Valentine’s Day cards!  In the United States, people exchange millions of Valentine’s Day cards each year! Valentine’s Day is also a big day for flowers; people buy millions of roses to give to their loved ones. 

Download Free 3D Valentine’s Day Card Template >>>

Download – DIY Valentine’s Day 3D Card

How to celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends

We celebrate it to show love and kindness to our family, friends, and even pets!

💌 Make a Valentine’s card – Draw hearts, flowers, or cute animals and write a kind message for someone special.

❤️ Show Kindness: Do something nice for someone you love, like helping them with chores or giving them a hug!

🎁 Give gifts  – A handmade craft, a drawing, or even a hug can make someone smile!

🎶 Sing and dance – Play fun music and enjoy the day with happy songs and laughter.

🎀 You can also have a special Valentine’s Day party at school or home with yummy treats and fun games.

🍪 Bake sweet treats – Heart-shaped cookies, cupcakes, or sandwiches are fun to make and share.

💖 Say kind words – Tell your parents, friends, or teachers why you appreciate them!

Explore Clever Hedgehog’s ideas on how you can celebrate your friends and family on Valentine’s Day >>> 

Valentine's Day Card, Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog
Download – Valentine’s Day Coloring Page
Valentine's Day Card, Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog
Download – DIY Valentine’s Day Cards
Valentine's Day Card, Coloring page for kids, Stories with Clever Hedgehog
Download – Valentine’s Day Coloring Page

A bookmark “Heart” – ORIGAMI for kids

More Craft Projects for Kids >>>

A CONTEST!

Valentine's Day CONTEST for kids

Valentine’s Day is here, and Clever Hedgehog has a special surprise for you! We want to hear all about what YOU love. It can be anything – your favorite book, your best friend, music, games, nature, or even Clever Hedgehog himself! 😊

💖 Write a Letter or Draw a Picture to Clever Hedgehog! 💖

  1. Write about or draw a picture of something you love!
  2. Don’t forget to tell us why you love it – is it because it makes you happy? Or because it’s fun to play with? ✨
  3. Send your letter or drawing to Clever Hedgehog’s email: storieswithcleverhedgehog@gmail.com
  4. Expect a surprise from Clever Hedgehog!

Read Contest Rules Here>>>

Send us your photos or videos to our email storieswithcleverhedgehog@gmail.com or tag us on Instagram and Facebook with  #CleverHedgehogContest

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True or False Game: Fun Facts About Valentine’s Day

Over 145 million Valentine’s cards are sent each year! 💌 True or False?

True. That makes it one of the most popular holidays for giving cards!

In Finland, Valentine’s Day is called “Friend’s Day.” 🎉 True or False?

True. 

Valentine’s Day is over 1,500 years old! 🎈True or False?

True. It started a long time ago in Rome, named after a kind priest named Valentine.

The heart shape is not a symbol of love. ♥️ True or False?

 False. It is. People believe that we feel love with our hearts!

Valentine’s Day Memory game

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tags: Valentine’s Day for children, Valentine’s Day for kids, Valentine’s Day history for kids, Valentine’s Day traditions, Valentine’s Day gifts ideas, Valentine’s Day coloring pages, Valentine’s Day crafts, Valentine’s Day card