Night Light Stories

Ferret Frenzy!

2023-12-31T09:00:00.001-05:00

Embark on a day long adventure with our latest coloring book, "Ferrets' Very Busy Day!" This enchanting book makes daily routines come to life through the charming world of ferrets.

Why Your Child Will Love This Book:

Engaging Scenes About Daily Activities: Each page unfolds a new and delightful scene that demonstrates a different daily routine, from brushing teeth and getting on a school bus to playing video games and having a family dinner. Watch as your child immerses themselves in the magic of daily activities with our friendly ferret characters.

And while coloring, you can listen to our free Mojo the Ferret stories!

Mojo and the Magic Couch: (8:26)

A little ferret squirms between the cushions of his family's couch

to find a world beyond his imagination.

Free audio download: Mojo and the Magic Couch

Blog with activities: Mojo and the Magic Couch

Mojo Goes Bananas: (9:58)
Mojo the ferret must figure out who is eating all his bananas

before he is out of luck and out of treats!

Free audio download: Mojo Goes Bananas
Blog with activities: Mojo Goes Bananas

Mojo's Cousin Trouble: (11:12)

Mojo's ferret cousins come to visit for the holidays and stir up all

kinds of trouble. Can Mojo settle them down?

Free audio download: Mojo's Cousin Trouble

Blog with activities: Mojo's Cousin Trouble

Mojo and the Ear Mites: (15:10)

Mojo the ferret has really itchy ears and a fear of going to

the veterinarian. How will he conquer both these problems?

Free audio download: Mojo and the Ear Mites

Blog with activities: Mojo and the Ear Mites

Mojo's Reptile Rescue: (12:12)

Mojo the ferret discovers a new friend in the most unlikely of places.

Free audio download: Mojo's Reptile Rescue

Blog with activities: Mojo's Reptile Rescue

Mojo's Outdoor Adventure (17:01)
Mojo the ferret takes an unexpected trip outside but will he be

able to find a way back in?

Free audio download: Mojo's Outdoor Adventure
Blog with activities: Mojo's Outdoor Adventure

Mojo Makes the Most of It (15:32)

Mojo the ferret is going on a trip, but his destination isn't what

he expected. Whatever will he do to entertain himself?

Free Audio Download: Mojo Makes the Most of It

Blog with activities: Mojo Makes the Most of It

Colorful Hedgehog Adventures Await!

2023-12-31T08:41:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

Embark on a whimsical musical adventure, athletic adventure, or winter adventure with our latest coloring books, "Hedgehogs In The Band", "Hedgehogs in Sports", and "Hedgehogs in Winter." These enchanting coloring books brings the joyous activities onto the page through the charming world of hedgehogs.

Click on the links below to begin your creative adventures!

Hedgehogs in the Band

Why Your Child Will Love This Book:

Engaging Rhythmic Scenes: Each page unfolds a new and delightful scene of a hedgehog participating in a musical performance. From playing drums and didgeridoos to trumpets and trombones, numerous musical instruments are represented. Watch as your child immerses themselves in the magic of melody with our friendly hedgehog characters.

Hedgehogs in Sports

Why Your Child Will Love This Book:

Engaging Sporting Scenes: Each page unfolds a new and delightful athletic scene. From playing soccer and shooting hoops to surfboarding and figure skating, this books is packed with sports! Watch as your child immerses themselves in the magic of athletics with our friendly hedgehog characters.

Hedgehogs in Winter

Why Your Child Will Love This Book:

Engaging Winter Scenes: Each page unfolds a new and delightful winter scene, from building snowmen and ice skating to cozy indoor activities. Watch as your child immerses themselves in the magic of winter with our friendly hedgehog characters.

Episode 85: The Cloud, Chapter 25

2022-03-12T19:35:00.003-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Do you need to catch up on The Cloud? Visit this link and you can find all the free downloadable chapters in one post!

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 24, where The Cloud presented their project, revealing field mice in the ventilation system, showing the whole school that the mold in the insulation and how the mice were bringing it throughout the school. This was the cause of people getting sick.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Initiated - begun, originated, or set going

Humane - acting in a manner that causes the least harm to people or animals

Suspend - to hold or keep undetermined; refrain from forming or concluding definitely

Jibed - to be in harmony or accord

Blog - a website containing a writer's or group of writers' own experiences, observations, opinions, etc., and often having images and links to other websites

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Create a blog of your own about something that interests you. What would it's name be and what would you write about?

2. Take a look at different ways you can remain safe on the Internet. https://www.mcgruffkits.com/2014/08/03/10-internet-safety-tips-for-kids/

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who went to each class to deliver a lesson about Internet and computer safety?

2. What did Mr. Stewart do with the mice she captured?

3. When did the ventilation system get cleaned?

4. Where did The Cloud go to get milkshakes?

5. Why is the school getting cleaned and receiving more hygiene awareness?

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 84: The Cloud, Chapter 24

2022-01-01T12:55:00.003-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 23, where The Cloud prepared to present their new project. Mr. Ginsburg, the Technology Resource Teacher, had set up the event and reviewed the interactive voting system. Mrs. Young, the Assistant Principal, introduced each group to come to the center table to present their project to the audience. Melvin continued to make snide comments about the validity of The Cloud's data. Finally, The Cloud was called to the center of the gymnasium as the last group to present.

Have you picked up a hobby or do something that makes the world a better,more positive place that you’d like to share with us? We’d love to Spotlight it inour episode. Simply send us an email at nightlightstories@gmail.com

We are so proud to Spotlight a special young lady who has practiced her love of

photography to create her very own Photography business. She’s available to take

Senior pics, family, individual and group pictures, and more. You can find samples

of her work on Instagram @kieramcmahonphotography. Not only is she talented

and fun to work with, but she is also excellent at taking suggestions, working with

your vision, giving feedback and finding just the right setting for you!

Take a look at what she did with our family:

And now on with the show! This week we bring you Chapter 24!

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Bobbing - a short, jerky motion

Symptoms - a phenomenon that arises from and accompanies a particular disease or disorder and serves as an indication of it

Fuzz - loose, light, fibrous, or fluffy matter

Bated - to moderate or restrain

Swiveled - to turn or pivot on or as if on a swivel

Wicked - very; really; totally

Absorbed - to suck up or drink in

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Locate all the heating vents and ducts in your house. With the help of an adult, check the vents and filters to see if they need to be cleaned or changed. Help with that chore!

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was sick in the pictures?

2. What was found in the ventilation system?

3. When was the school under construction?

4. Where is the virus coming from?

5. Why did the Cloud switch their project?

To all of our July, August, September, October, November and December birthdays!

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW!

2021-11-28T10:26:00.001-05:00

Hi All,

Grab the hot chocolate, marshmallows, paper, scissors and stapler! Join us in creating some 3D snowflakes to kick off the start of winter! Just follow the link below to the step-by-step video tutorial. Feel free to post your creations on our Facebook Page or send your very own flurry to us at nightlightstories@gmail.com!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

How to Make a 3D Snowflake

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

And while you're crafting a snowflake, enjoy listening to our collection of holiday stories! Below, you can find all the links to the audio as well as the blog posts with activities. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

Chilly's Christmas: (20:08)

An ornament is accidentally placed on the back of the Christmas

tree and must learn to experience his favorite season using his

other senses with a little help from his friends!

Free audio download: Chilly's Christmas

Blog with activities: Chilly's Christmas

Inky's Christmas: (21:24)

Inky, a nervous octopus, has to figure out a way to control his inking

so he can attend all of his friends' holiday festivities.

Free audio download: Inky's Christmas

Blog with activities: Inky's Christmas

Red vs. Green: (22:21)

When a team of Christmas elves goes against a team of
St. Patrick's Day in the Holiday Hockey Winter Classic, who will win?

Free audio download: Red vs. Green

Blog with activities: Red vs. Green

Candy Cane Catastrophe (14:56)

Tragedy befalls a boy and his candy cane on a long car
drive to Grandma's for the holidays.

Free audio download: Candy Cane Catastrophe

Blog with activities: Candy Cane Catastrophe

Sled Ride: (6:06)

A little boy tells of his exciting sled ride down the hill while

trying to avoid a collision.

Free audio download: Sled Ride

Blog with activities: Sled Ride

Click here to listen to: Ohwhatfunitis (13:33)

Carol is way behind with her Christmas preparations when

she starts to experience some strange symptoms.

Can her family step up to help her out?

Episode 83: The Cloud, Chapter 23

2021-06-26T14:05:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 22, where The Cloud walked around to check out all of the other groups projects, and prepared to present their project to all of the teachers, parents, and peers.

Did you know that you can help the Cloud? Simply share a picture of the weather that is happening in your neck of the woods at nightlightstories@gmail.com. We'll place them on the the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 to help out The Cloud with their science fair data!

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Annual - occurring or returning once a year

Decay - to become decomposed

Erupted - to break out of a pent-up state, usually in a sudden and violent manner

Murmurs - a low, continuous sound, as of a brook, the wind, or trees, or of low, indistinct voices

Simultaneously - existing, occurring, or operating at the same time

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Check out these cool interactive websites to keep you engaged in learning all through the summer.

2. Try a few of these quick and easy science experiments with an adult!

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was the man with the blond ponytail?

2. What was the name of the company Ralph Baer is president of?

3. When did Mrs. Young become a judge?

4. Where was Mr. Van Riper?

5. Why was Garrett angry at Melvin?

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 82: The Cloud, Chapter 22

2021-04-25T21:17:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 21, where The Cloud worked diligently at their houses reviewing video and photo evidence to come up with a hypothesis as to what could be causing the school to get sick.

We would like to introduce a 6th grader who used her passion for sewing to create her own Etsy store! This episode's spotlight is on Shyla, owner of Sew Fancy Designs Co. She began sewing when she was eight years old. Her passion led her to sell her creations at local farmers markets. With the help of her mom, she opened her own Etsy store where she sells a variety hand-sewed, affordable, high quality stuffed animals and handmade sticker designs. She also works with her customers for customized orders! But what about all the leftover fabric? Well, Shyla is a true animal lover. She doesn't waste a thread. All her leftovers are made into soft toys for local animal shelters! Way to go, Shyla. Please check out this impressive young lady's talents at Sew Fancy Designs Co.

In fact, she created a one of a kind Mojo the Ferret just for us!

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Draped - To cover or hang with cloth or other fabric, especially in graceful folds

Diagrams - A drawing or plan that outlines and explains the parts, operation, etc., of something

Align - To bring into cooperation or agreement with a particular group, party, cause, etc.

Multimedia - The combined use of several media, as sound and full-motion video in computer applications.

Waggled - To wobble or shake, especially while in motion

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Create a picture or diagram of how you hear the gymnasium is set up for the science fair.

2. Do you think The Cloud is still doing a project on the weather? Vote in a poll here!

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was missing when The Cloud walked into the Gymnasium?

2. What does Melvin call Todd and Jamie?

3. When are people allowed to walk around and look at the presentations?

4. Where is the science fair held?

5. Why does Melvin talk about The Cloud's weather project so much?

All of our family, friends and listeners for the

months of February, March and April

WE HOPE YOUR DAY SPARKLED!

CATCH UP WITH ALL THINGS NIGHT LIGHT STORIES

2021-03-31T09:03:00.001-04:00

The Night Light Stories Household is so happy it is Spring. We will be back to recording our final chapter of The Cloud this week. In the meantime, we wanted to post some of our quick links for a "one stop shop" type of post. Come catch up with us!

Story Snapshots

Visit this link to view a list of our 62 stories. Here you'll find links to the audio and the blog post with activities.

The Cloud

Visit this link to catch up on our novella, The Cloud. We update this link each week to include all of the chapters that are posted.

EduWalks

Visit this link to join us on EduWalks. Mr. Chris and I share resources and strategies to help families, students, educators and admin for the current learning environment!

Night Light Stories Live

Visit this link to hear our stories LIVE!

Join Us on Social Media!

Episode 81: The Cloud, Chapter 21

2021-01-24T19:10:00.001-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 20, where The Cloud had a day off of school that they used to meet as a team to put their science fair project together. However, they found that their data had been tampered with and they would be forced to withdraw or get another project together in one day's time.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

dimension: a property of space; extension in a given direction

hunch: a premonition or suspicion; guess

lateral: of or relating to the side; situated at, proceeding from, or directed to a side

poltergeist:a ghost or spirit supposed to manifest its presence by noises, knockings, etc.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Conduct a mold experiment and send us a picture of the results at nightlightstories@gmail.com. Visit the following site to guide you on how to get started: https://teachbesideme.com/growing-mold-science-experiment/

2. There is many different things to learn in science. You can play interactive science games here.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who said the pink fuzz looked like cotton candy?

2. What did they see in the picture of the apple wrapped in blue plastic?

3. When did The Cloud capture all of the pictures of the ladybugs?

4. Where did Garrett suggest they find the data for their new science project?

5. Why do you think there would be mold on the corner of the wall by the classroom sink?

Mr. Chris of the Night Light Stories Household

Meme and Papa of Massachusetts

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 80: The Cloud, Chapter 20

2020-12-31T13:17:00.002-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 19, where The Cloud made a plan to investigate their hypothesis of Melvin making people sick. However, after getting the approval of Mr. Brisbane to clean the classroom, their plan went awry. The Cloud made a judgement error and ended up losing Mr. Brisbane's trust in the process.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Remainder - Something that remains or is left.

Proper - Conforming to established standards of behavior or manners; correct or decorous

Experiment - A test, trial, or tentative procedure; an act or operation for the purpose of discovering something unknown or of testing a principle, supposition, etc.

Perkily - Jaunty; cheerful; brisk.

Inconsistencies - An inconsistent thing, action, remark.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. In this chapter, Jamie was using idioms to describe their situation. An idiom is a common phrase which means something different from its literal meaning but can be understood because of their popular use.

"I’m saying we’re up the creek without a paddle. Our battery is dying and we don’t have a charger. Our tissues are gone but we’ve still got a runny nose. Shall I go on? How many ways can I say that our goose is cooked?"

Come play with us here and match some common idioms.

2. Make a prediction. What science experiment do you think Garrett is referring to that is ready to go?

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who had The Cloud cleaning classrooms for a week?

2. What was Mr. Brisbane's lesson in having them go to each classroom and clean?

3. When did The Cloud find the inconsistencies in their data?

4. Where was the picture placed that caught The Cloud's attention?

5. Why does Jamie believe Mr. Brisbane does not want them to win?

Papa of Massachusetts

Uncle Markie of New Jersey

Auntie Heather of Virginia

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 79: The Cloud, Chapter 19

2020-11-27T10:07:00.003-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 18, where The Cloud had Mr. Brisbane come to the

library to help them with their science project so they could test if he was the cause

of the rampant illness in the school by having other people in another environment around

him. In the end, the foursome found that a sort of sickness captured only one of the library

volunteers, but it was not what The Cloud expected.

GRATEFUL GLOW

We, at the Night Light Stories Household, are so

very grateful for all of our listeners!

CATCH UP ON THE CLOUD

Click here to listen to Chapters 1-18

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Distributing - to divide and give out in shares.

Wafted - to carry lightly and smoothly through the air or over water.

Recognition - the perception of something as existing or true; realization.

Pseudo - not actually but having the appearance of; pretended; false or spurious; sham.

Mopped - to wipe as if with a mop.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. The apple The Cloud found was covered in green fuzz. What do you think made

the mold grow on the apple? Research what conditions make mold grow on food.

2. Conduct your own experiment for growing mold on a piece of bread or fruit.

Click here for directions!

3. Garrett wished he had tried harder to stop what he knew was wrong.

What characteristics do you often see in a good citizen? Click here to add

some of those characteristics to our Word Cloud about Citizenship.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who had the idea to ask Mr. Brisbane if they could disinfect the classroom?

2. What did Val find in Melvin's desk?

3. When did The Cloud propose that they would clean the classroom?

4. Where did Melvin say the apple was in his desk?

5. Why did The Cloud want to clean the classroom? Did they ALL have good intentions?

Maggie of The Night Light Stories Household

Jen T of Virginia

Iris of Canada

Wyatt of Virginia

Olive of Virginia

WE HOPE YOUR DAY SPARKLED!

Episode 78: The Cloud, Chapter 18

2020-11-08T10:50:00.001-05:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last episode, we brought you Chapter 17, where The Cloud come up with a plan to test their

newest theory that Mr. Brisbane is making everyone sick. The scientific method was in full effect!

CATCH UP ON THE CLOUD!

Click here to listen to Chapters 1-16

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Tutoring - To act as a tutor to; teach or instruct, especially privately.

Venue - The scene or locale of any action or event.

Skeptically - Doubtful about a particular thing.

Emphasize - To give emphasis to; lay stress upon; stress.

Predecessor - Something succeeded or replaced by something else.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Learn or review the Scientific Method with some interactive activities and videos. Click here.

2. We're creating a Word Cloud for The Cloud! We'd love for you to share a word that you think sums up the story and/or characters. You can add to the word cloud here.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was the librarian assistant that Mr. Brisbane helped with her car?

2. What are some ways the Cloud brought the librarians and volunteers around Mr. Brisbane?

3. When did the Cloud decide that it was not Mr. Brisbane who was making people sick?

4. Where did The Cloud decide to sit in the library each day? Why is this an important detail in the experiment?

5. Why could the volunteer not find the book on the cart that Jaime requested?

Teddy of Pennsylvania

WE HOPE YOUR DAY SPARKLED!

Episode 77: The Cloud, Chapter 17

2020-09-26T11:44:00.002-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

A few weeks ago, we brought you Chapter 16, where The Cloud enlisted the class' help in gathering ladybugs to put in a container so Todd could breathe in the air around the ladybugs to see if they were what was making the school sick. They came to the conclusion that the ladybugs did not cause everyone to get sick, and the experiment was successful.

CATCH UP ON THE CLOUD!

Click here to listen to Chapters 1-16

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Immune - Protected from a disease or the like.

Claim - An assertion of something as a fact.

Foreign - Of, relating to, or derived from another country or nation; not native.

Benefactor - A person who confers a benefit; kindly helper.

Gripe - To complain naggingly or constantly; grumble.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. VOTE! Click here to vote if you think The Cloud should stop collecting data for their science fair and use what the anonymous contributor has been placed in their folder

2. Share your favorite part of the story so far by clicking here!

3. Graph your weather for the week by filling in the boxes on this slide here.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who skates by the library?

2. What kind of apple was Garrett eating?

3. When did Garrett have flag football?

4. Where did The Cloud want to bring Mr. Brisbane?

5. Why did Todd think that using the anonymous reports was not considered cheating?

Ms. Mel of Virginia

Eric of Pennsylvania

Uncle Steve of New Jersey

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Playing Catch Up

2020-09-20T07:48:00.037-04:00

Hello All,

The Night Light Stories Household is back to school in a Distance Learning environment. We wanted to post some of our quick links for a "one stop shop" type of post. Come catch up with us!

Story Snapshots

Visit this link to view a list of our 62 stories. Here you'll find links to the audio and the blog post with activities.

The Cloud

Visit this link to catch up on our novella, The Cloud. We update this link each week to include all of the chapters that are posted.

EduWalks

Visit this link to join us on EduWalks. Mr. Chris and I share resources and strategies to help families, students, educators and admin for the current learning environment!

Night Light Stories Live

Visit this link to hear our stories LIVE! Join Mr. Chris and I on Sundays at 6PM EST at our Night Light Stories Facebook page where we say hello, catch up on the week, tell jokes, play a game and read our stories.

Join Us on Social Media!

Episode 76: The Cloud, Chapter 16

2020-08-23T09:58:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

A few weeks ago, we brought you Chapter 15, where Garrett and Todd gave their health recommendations to a very distracted Mrs. Young. Their suggestions were easy to accomplish, but her distraction left them wondering if they would even see them implemented by the end of the year.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, TEXTHELP!

Photo credit: Texthelp

This week, we bring you Chapter 16. Texthelp, the makers of WriQ, is establishing a new revolution for student writing achievement. Join a growing community of students and teachers and try WriQ for free today. Visit: text.help/stories.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Reassuringly - To restore to assurance or confidence

Snippets - A small bit, scrap, or fragment

Tally - To count or reckon up

Twinge - To pinch; tweak; twitch

Wagered - Something risked or staked on an uncertain event; bet

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Watch this video about the scientific method and track each step of it through Chapter 16 as you listen. What is your hypothesis about what is making people in the school sick?

2. Ladybugs are interesting insects. Learn more about them here. Then, take the word puzzle challenge online at Puzzel.org.

3. Create your own puzzle at http://puzzel.org.

4. Click this link to learn the life cycle of the ladybug by moving around the pieces to the puzzle until they are in the right order.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who found a ladybug on the door handle?

2. What did Todd use to make the short video snippets?

3. When did Mr. Brisbane inquire about the experiment?

4. Where did Erika Elias find two ladybugs?

5. Why Did Todd stick his head in the bag of ladybugs?

Dede of Pennsylvania

Bethie of Massachusetts

Brian of Massachusetts

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 75: The Cloud, Chapter 15

2020-08-08T12:30:00.004-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

A few weeks ago, we brought you Chapter 13 and 14, where Val questioned Melvin, hoping to find out who was putting the extra files in their project. The Cloud came to the assumption that Mr. Brisbane was helping them.

Wait, or was it you? Did you add to their files? Did you know that you can? Simply share a picture of the weather that is happening in your neck of the woods at nightlightstories@gmail.com. We'll place them on the the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 to help out The Cloud with their science fair data!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, TEXTHELP!

Photo credit: Texthelp

This week, we bring you Chapter 15. Texthelp, the makers of WriQ, is establishing a new revolution for student writing achievement. Join a growing community of students and teachers and try WriQ for free today. Visit: text.help/stories.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Disheveled - untidy or disarranged

Diminishing - to make or cause to seem smaller, less, less important, etc.

Engrossed - to occupy completely, as the mind or attention

Pondering - to consider something deeply and thoroughly

Typical - characteristic or distinctive

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. If you could have a class pet like Delbert, what would it be? This article from PetMD.com shares the 5 best classroom pets. Choose one and then research how to take care of it!

2. Make a list! Who do YOU think could be helping The Cloud by adding to their science fair folders and data? Write the character names you suspect and three reasons using evidence from the story to support your hypothesis.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who helped Todd and Garrett in the beginning of the chapter?

2. What is the master password?

3. When did Mrs. Young have a meeting?

4. Where were Todd and Garrett going to send the recommendations?

5. Why is Mrs. Young working so hard?

Tucker of Virginia

Brady of Virginia

Brayden of New York

Suzy NP of Virginia

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

CATCH UP ON THE CLOUD - Chapters 1-25

2020-07-26T22:31:00.017-04:00

The Cloud, Chapter 1

We met four friends who were utilizing a video conferencing tool on their computers to meet up at the end of summer. Together, they share their excitement and anticipation for the start of a new school year and to discuss a mysterious new addition to the staff.

The Cloud, Chapter 2

Four friends come to school on the first day to see who is in their class

and finally be introduced to their new teacher.

The Cloud, Chapter 3

We last saw our four friends being introduced to their new teacher in the gymnasium. They also found out who was, in fact, in their class. As they all followed their new teacher, Mr. Brisbane, to their classroom, there were many rumors floating through the line about Mr. Brisbane's past.

Who is this mysterious new teacher?

The Cloud, Chapter 4

The students head into their new classroom with their new teacher as he shares directions in a very unique way. In order to get their teacher to talk, they will need to follow a series of clues.

The Cloud, Chapter 5 & 6

The students were worked on solving the clues that their new 4th grade teacher, Mr. Brisbane had given them in multiple different formats. They were presented with pictures, audio directions from the computer, clues on a class website and search engines for research. In order to get Mr. Brisbane to talk they have to solve his puzzle.

The Cloud, Chapter 7

The four friends organized their efforts by dividing up the clues to research and creating a shared word processing doc to keep themselves in sync. The whole class worked in their somewhat chosen pods in order to breakdown the visuals and audio clues given. They also worked to create unique and individualized name tags.

The Cloud, Chapter 8

The four friends organized their efforts and solved Mr. Brisbane's riddle, and due to their resourcefulness on the internet, he dubbed them "The Cloud". Check out the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 and http://www.nightlightstories.net for a link to be part of the class!

The Cloud, Chapter 9

The Cloud decided their nicknames and learned about the school's upcoming science fair. Mr. Brisbane incentivized entering the science fair by giving no homework while the students prepared their projects! The class clusters were all abuzz about options for the projects they could do.

The Cloud, Chapter 10

The Cloud discussed how they would divide the work for the science fair among themselves, and also thou

ght up ideas to help Jamie make a swift recovery.

The Cloud, Chapter 11

Val and Garrett went to turn in attendance in the office, when they found the principal, Mr. Wolff, was feeling sick. Mr. Wolff tasked them both with drafting health rules for the school, and ended with him and Jamie going home sick.

The Cloud, Chapter 12

The Cloud found extra resource links, pictures and videos in the digital folders for their science project. They began to hypothesize who could have access to their folders. They made a plan to quietly ask around the classroom to figure out if someone was trying to help their chances of winning.

The Cloud, Chapter 13 and 14

Val questioned Melvin, hoping to find out who was putting the extra files in their project. The Cloud came to the assumption that Mr. Brisbane was helping them.

The Cloud, Chapter 15

Garrett and Todd gave their health recommendations to a very distracted Mrs. Young. Their suggestions were easy to accomplish, but her distraction left them wondering if they would even see them implemented by the end of the year.

The Cloud, Chapter 16

The Cloud enlisted the class' help in gathering ladybugs from around the classroom and school. They wanted to conduct an experiment where Todd would breathe in the air from the ladybug container to see if that what was making the school sick. They came to the conclusion that the ladybugs did not cause everyone to get sick, and the experiment was successful.

The Cloud, Chapter 17

The Cloud came up with a plan to test their newest hypothesis that Mr. Brisbane

was the one making everyone sick in the school. However, they needed to find somewhere

other than the school to test this! The scientific method was in full effect!

The Cloud, Chapter 18

The Cloud had Mr. Brisbane come to the library to help them with their science project so

they could test if he was the cause of the rampant illness in the school by having

other people in another environment around him. In the end, the foursome

found that a sort of sickness captured only one of the library volunteers,

but it was not what The Cloud expected.

The Cloud, Chapter 19

The Cloud made a plan to investigate their hypothesis of Melvin making people sick. However, after getting the approval of Mr. Brisbane to clean the classroom, their plan went awry. The Cloud made a judgement error and ended up losing Mr. Brisbane's trust in the process.

The Cloud, Chapter 20

The Cloud had a day off of school that they used to meet as a team to put their science fair project together. However, they found that their data had been tampered with and they would be forced to withdraw or get another project together in one day's time.

The Cloud, Chapter 21

The Cloud worked diligently at their houses reviewing video and photo evidence to come up with a hypothesis as to what could be causing the school to get sick.

The Cloud, Chapter 22

The Cloud walked around to check out all of the other groups projects, and prepared to present their project to all of the teachers, parents, and peers. They asked Mr. Brisbane if they could present last, having more time to prepare for the last minute change they had to make.

The Cloud, Chapter 23

The Cloud prepared to present their new project. Mr. Ginsburg, the Technology Resource Teacher, had set up the event and reviewed the interactive voting system. Mrs. Young, the Assistant Principal, introduced each group to come to the center table to present their project to the audience. Melvin continued to make snide comments about the validity of The Cloud's data. Finally, The Cloud was called to the center of the gymnasium as the last group to present.

The Cloud, Chapter 24

The Cloud presented their project, revealing moldy insulation which the field mice were carrying around the ventilation system, causing people to get sick.

The Cloud, Chapter 25

The Cloud won the science fair! Mrs. Young started a club to have students help keep the school clean and healthy. Melvin was caught in his deceit of stealing passwords and had to present Internet safety to every classroom. The Cloud went out for milkshakes as a celebration and planned on how they could thank all of the staff who supported them in their research and product.

Episode 74: The Cloud, Chapter 13 and 14

2020-07-25T12:19:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

A few weeks ago, we brought you Chapter 12, where The Cloud found extra resource links, pictures and videos in the digital folders for their science project. They began to hypothesize who could have access to their folders. They made a plan to quietly ask around the classroom to figure out if someone was trying to help their chances of winning.

Was it you? Did you add to their files? Did you know that you can? Simply share a picture of the weather that is happening in your neck of the woods at nightlightstories@gmail.com. We'll place them on the the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 to help out The Cloud with their science fair data!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, TEXTHELP!

Photo credit: Texthelp

This week, we bring you Chapter 13 and 14 combined. Texthelp, the makers of WriQ, is establishing a new revolution for student writing achievement. Join a growing community of students and teachers and try WriQ for free today. Visit: text.help/stories.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Fluorescent - the visible or invisible radiation emitted by certain substances as a result of incident radiation of a shorter wavelength such as X-rays or ultraviolet light.

Affectionately - in a way that displays fondness or tenderness.

Antagonize - act as an antagonist

Beamed - express an emotion with a radiant smile.

Rapidly - very quickly; at a great rate.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. If you could have a class pet like Delbert, what would it be? Research how to take care of it!

2. Make a prediction! Who could be helping The Cloud by adding to their science fair folders and data?

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who fed Delbert the Salamander?

2. What was the logo for the science fair?

3. When did Val place the note on Melvin's desk?

4. Where did Val ask Melvin to meet her?

5. Why does Melvin think that Mr. Brisbane wants him to win?

Nana fo New York

Meme of Massachusetts

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

LIGHTING THE WAY WITH WORDS

2020-07-06T19:25:00.001-04:00

Dale: (14:32)

The adventure of a little gray fox as he searches for a place to call home

after his den is cleared away by construction.

Free audio download: Dale

Blog with activities: Dale

Episode 73: The Cloud, Chapter 12

2020-07-04T15:08:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last week we brought you Chapter 11, where Val and Garrett went to turn in attendance in the office, when they found the principal, Mr. Wolff, was feeling sick. Mr. Wolff tasked them both with drafting health rules for the school, and ended with him and Jamie going home sick.

What type of weather is happening in your neck of the woods? Take a picture and upload it to our group folder. We'll place them on the the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 to help out The Cloud with their science fair data!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, TEXTHELP!

Photo credit: Texthelp

This week, we bring you Chapter 12. Our sponsor, Texthelp, will be featured before and after this week's episode. Texthelp, the makers of WriQ, is establishing a new revolution for student writing achievement. Join a growing community of students and teachers and try WriQ for free today. Visit: text.help/stories.

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Lounge - To pass time idly and indolently.

Application - A computer program used for a particular type of job or problem.

Genuinely - Possessing the claimed or attributed character, quality, or origin; not counterfeit; authentic; real.

Definitively - Serving to define, fix, or specify definitely.

Artifacts - Any feature that is not naturally present but is a product of an extrinsic agent, method, or the like.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Share your coolest weather pictures in this folder!

2. What do YOU think is making people sick in the school? Add your theory to the Padlet.

3. Continue to help The Cloud by adding your own suggestions to help fight illness in the school to the Cleanliness Catalog.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who hypothesized that Melvin was causing everyone to get sick?

2. What channels did Todd watch?

3. When were Val and Garrett walking to the office?

4. Where did The Cloud take pictures?

5. Why does The Cloud suspect someone is helping them?

Auntie Kerry of Massachusetts

John Kane of Texas

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

Episode 72: The Cloud, Chapter 11

2020-06-20T09:25:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last week we brought you Chapter 10, where The Cloud discussed how they would divide the work for the science fair amongst themselves, and also thought up ideas to help Jamie make a swift recovery.

What type of project have you done or would you be interested in doing for the science fair? Check out the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 and http://www.nightlightstories.net for a link to be part of the class!

This week, we bring you Chapter 11. Our sponsor, Texthelp, will be featured before and after this week's episode. Texthelp, the makers of Fluency Tutor are offering it for free through the end of the 2019-2020 school year. Try it today, by visiting: text.help/nightlightstories

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Swish - move with a hissing or rushing sound.

Hub - The effective center of an activity, region, or network.

Eerily - In a strange and frightening manner.

Absentmindedly - In an absentminded way; vaguely.

Erupt - Break out or burst forth suddenly and dramatically.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Principal Wolff asked Val and Garrett to put together a Health Recommendation Sheet. Visit the class site and add to a list of recommendations to make your school or workplace healthier. You can find their Google Jamboard here where they've started.

2. What are some ways Mr. Brisbane's students can contribute to their groups in class completing work even if they were home sick? Post some ideas on the below Padlet!

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who needed to go home at the end of the chapter?

2. What color was the folder the second graders were carrying?

3. When were Val and Garrett walking to the office?

4. Where had the assistant principal, Mrs. Young just return from in this chapter?

5. Why did Principal Wolff ask Val and Garrett to make a Health Recommendation Sheet?

Aunt Sue of New Jersey

Kenni of Pennsylvania

Baby Frankie

WE HOPE YOUR DAYS SPARKLED!

LIGHTING THE WAY WITH WORDS

2020-06-19T21:50:00.001-04:00

Pedal Power (14:21)

While learning to ride a bike, a boy learns perseverance breeds confidence.

Free audio download: Pedal Power

Blog with activities: Pedal Power

When you are completing a project or trying something new,

you really need to concentrate. An example is the girl painting

or in the story above about learning to ride a bike.

What have you had to concentrate on lately?

Share with us below in the comments!

Episode 71: The Cloud, Chapter 10

2020-06-07T17:06:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Two weeks ago we brought you Chapter 9, where The Cloud decided their nicknames and learned about the school's upcoming science fair. Mr. Brisbane incentivized entering the science fair by giving no homework while the students prepared their projects! The class clusters were all abuzz about options for the projects they could do.

This week, we bring you Chapter 10. Our sponsor, Texthelp, will be featured before and after this week's episode. Texthelp, the makers of Fluency Tutor are offering it for free through the end of the 2019-2020 school year. Try it today, by visiting: text.help/nightlightstories

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Spiffy - Smart in appearance.

Stuffy - Lacking fresh air or ventilation.

Alleviate - make less severe.

Eagerly - used to emphasize a strong desire to do or have something.

Critter- a living creature; an animal.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. What are some home remedies that your family uses when you have a virus in the house? Share with us in the comments. Here are some common symptoms to decipher between a cold or allergies.

2. Check out some science fair projects ideas and try one that looks interesting to you (with permission from an adult). Post your results in the comments and/or send us results and picture to our email at nightlightstories@gmail.com.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was sick at home from the class?

2. What were each member of The Cloud's roles in completing their science fair project on the weather?

3. When did Jamie say he felt better?

4. Where had Todd learned about viruses?

5. Why did Val insist on using their code names?

GLOWING GRADUATION WISHES!

CLASS OF 2020 at LOUDOUN VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

LIGHTING THE WAY WITH WORDS

2020-05-27T13:29:00.002-04:00

Everything In This Story Stinks! (16:57)
Come along on a tour of the exhibits featured in the Museum of Malodorous Art.
Free audio download: Everything In This Story Stinks!
Blog with activities: Everything In This Story Stinks!

Barrage means to bombard (someone) with something, like the waves

in the picture. The above story link is about a barrage of smells.

Take a listen.

We'd love to hear from you! Share a picture a picture or

post a comment telling us something that

you have been barraged with lately!

Share with us in the comments, on our Facebook page or Twitter.

As always, we look forward to watching the glow grow brighter
with the many words we can share together.

Episode 70: The Cloud, Chapter 9

2020-05-24T13:44:00.006-04:00

MONDAY, MAY 18, 2020

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters.

Last week we brought you Chapter 8, where the four friends organized their efforts and solved Mr. Brisbane's riddle, and due to their resourcefulness on the internet, he dubbed them "The Cloud". Check out the class website at bit.ly/brisbanegrade4 and http://www.nightlightstories.net for a link to be part of the class!

This week, we have chapter 9. Our sponsor, Texthelp, will be featured before and after chapter 9. Texthelp, the makers of Fluency Tutor are offering it for free through the end of the school year. Try it today, by visiting: text.help/nightlightstories

VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story

there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Groove- Establish routine or habit.

Engaging- Occupy, attract, or involve.

Dwindling- Gradually diminishing in amount.

Relapse- Suffer deterioration after a period of improvement.

Entice- Attract or tempt by offering pleasure or advantage.

Navigate- Find its way, especially over a long distance.

JUST ADD IMAGINATION!

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing

after hearing the story.

1. Learn about the different types of clouds in the below videos.

2. Help The Cloud! Check out some of the weather experiments at this link. Conduct as many of these as you want. Don't forget to take pictures and send them to us at nightlightstories@gmail.com or post them on our Facebook Page.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the

details to answer these questions?

1. Who came up with the idea for code names for The Cloud cluster?

2. What were the science project ideas that The Cloud talked through with each other?

3. When was the last time Garrett saw the members of the Garden Club?

4. Where could The Cloud take readings for their project?

5. Why do you think Bethie Crowley had a relapse?

GLOWING GRADUATION WISHES!

WE'RE SO PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS!

Kiki M.

Erika E.