March is one of those in-between months. For many of us, it's a transition month from winter to spring. That makes it one of my favorites -- snowstorms give way to thunderstorms, daylight hours are getting longer, and there are those wonderful days you can smell spring in the air.
But this change of seasons isn't the only reason to celebrate March. Here are 10 special family-friendly holidays and events you and your kids can celebrate this month:
Read Across America Day
Many schools celebrate Read Across America Day each year. You can celebrate at home too by visiting your local library or reading together as a family. Need some book suggestions? Check out this list from the National Education Association, which celebrates an array of experiences and cultures. March 2
National Day of Unplugging
Read a book. Meditate. Play a game as a family. Go for a walk in the woods. Spend some time as a family completely tech-free. Can your family do it for a full 24 hours? If your family really gets in the spirit, consider a full digital-detox vacation! March 7
International Women's Day
This year's theme is #EachforEqual, the idea being that an equal world is an enabled world and that collectively, each one of us can help create a gender equal world. How can you make a difference? March 8
Daylight Saving Time
It's time to spring forward! That means you set your clocks ahead an hour, which means the sun sets at a later hour, which means ... summer is on its way! March 8
Pi Day
Celebrate ... with pie, of course! Try this amazing apple pie recipe that is sure to add up to a totally happy family (see what I did there?) March 14
St. Patrick's Day
It's time to make an elaborate leprechaun trap! Maybe this will be the year your kids catch hold of that little troublemaker. Looking for St. Patrick's Day crafts with kids? Check out these three fun and easy crafts! March 17
First Day of Spring
Oh, happy day. Typically the first day of spring falls on March 20 or 21. This year it's a bit early. We're not mad about that. March 19
National Single Parent's Day
Support a single parent today! How? Let them know you see how many self-sacrifices they make for their kids. Bring them a meal. Offer childcare. Listen, so they know they're not alone. March 21
National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day
When you spend $100 at a local independent business, about $68 stays in the community, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Compare that to $43 from a chain store and a negligible amount from shopping online. Make shopping local a priority today -- and every day! March 29
Take a Walk in the Park Day
... and make sure to take the time to stop and smell the roses. March 30
Kara Murphy is the publisher of Macaroni Kid Erie, Pa.
