5 Things Your Kids Can Learn From the Olympics

The Olympics 2012: London

The Olympic Games has finally arrived! 

For those of you who are excited about games as I have and followed the torch as it made its way from Greece to London; tonight is when it all begins! Who will take home medals? Who will make history? Who will make the dramatic comeback? The suspense is almost keeping me up this past week. What we do know is what team USA will be wearing this year- classic American clothing (made in China) by none other than Ralph Lauren. Check out 

the uniform of team France.

©Kishimoto Hiroki Sugimoto 

5 Things Your Kids Can Learn From the Olympics:

1. Follow your dreams: If you ask any of the athletes in this year's games what their childhood dream was and you'll most likely hear, "to compete in the Olympics." Whether your child is dreaming of competing in the 2020 Games or not, the key is to never give up on your dream. Most importantly is that behind each athlete are parents and family members that have guided them on their path.
2. Persistence: Hard work and dedication quite often (almost always) leads to great achievements. No matter the sport or activity your child is engaged, the takeaway from the games is to always try your best and never give up.
3. Sportsmanship: part of playing the sport is good sportsmanship. The Olympics teach us that fair play is fair play no matter the language or background. Rivals become friends and the closing ceremony is filled with teams from various countries sharing laughs and exchanging mementos. 
4. Teamwork: growing up, we were always told that there isn't an 'i' in 'team' and there still isn't. Being part of a team is more than wearing the same uniform. It's working together to achieve a common goal.
5. Having a fit lifestyle: having active lifestyle build a strong body, self-esteem and so much more. 

Top Athletes to Watch

Here's a list of top 10 lists worth reading. Get to know the athletes and root for your faves. These lists do not include those most likely to make history, have a dramatic comeback or inspire you to do 5 laps, but should.

Top 10 Athletes to watch in 2012 London Olympics

10 Olympic Athletes for the London 2012 Games

U.S. Olympic champions seek greater glory in London Games

Have an iPad or Anroid gadget? Try these cool Olympic Games inspired apps:

1. BBC Olympics on Android (Free)

2. Samsung: Take Part 2012

3. Reuters Olympics London 2012 (Free)4. London 2012: Official Results App for the Olympic and Paralympic Games (Free) 5. NBC Olympics (Free)6. 2012 Team USA Road to London Olympics (Free) 

5 Ways to Celebrate July 4th in Paris

Celebrate Independence Day in Paris

The late 18th century was a period of great change for the New World colonies. The colonists were struggling for their right to form a new nation and independence from the British Empire during the American Revolution (1775-1783).

On July 2, 1776 the Second Continental Congress approved the resolution of independence and two days later the Declaration of Independence -Thomas Jefferson being the principal author- received final approval. Thus, a new nation of 13 was formed and Great Britain was served their 'walking papers' so to speak.

Since that time, July 4th or Independence Day is observed as the birth of American independence and is celebrated throughout the nation with parades, fireworks, family gatherings, country fairs, and let's not forget barbecues!

Happy Independence Day, America!

5 Ways to Celebrate Independence Day in Paris:

courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

1. Picnic on Quai d'Orsay - the American Church is holding a picnic on the Quai in front of the church. Join the family fun with your fellow patriots. Please refer to the flyer for more info.

2. Story Hour at the American Library- the theme will be July 4th and children ages 3-5 will love the silly songs and stories about the holiday. Click here for more info.

3. Meetup and celebrate with fellow expats at Penderie- meetup is the place to meet others with similar interests. Connect with others and there will be hotdogs!!!

4. Watch 4th of July themed movies- Get in the spirit with some classic films for the whole family. Check out a short list of Independence day themed movies available on amazon.com.

5. Start your own 4th of July tradition- add your own twist to the festivities. Why not invite friends to an American-themed soirée, or have family night in and share the story of how a nation was born and maybe belting out a few classic songs with the kiddies. The possibilities are endless. 

Independence day themed recipe ideas

Kid-friendly 4th of July recipe ideas

Independence day themed songs