NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

September 21, 2026August 20, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

September 22 focuses on raising awareness and sharing education about all 50 states and their capitals on National States and Capitals Day.

As children, we learn about the 50 states and their capitals in the U.S. But as we get older, we tend to forget those important cities and their role in crafting policy and influencing the economy. And, while everybody knows their own state capital, many do not even remember the capital of the state next door. Today, let’s take the time to remind ourselves how important every state and capital is to our nation.

Learning about States and Capitals

Remember those paper maps we were given to learn about states and capitals? Our worksheet had blank states with star indicating where the capital was supposed to be. The agony of naming each state and capital was definitely stressful! We spent time memorizing names, where the state was and naming each capital. Not to mention spelling everything correctly. Some of us were lucky to have a teacher that would play a game to help us remember.

Typically, we learn about states and capitals between the grades 3-6, starting with the state we live in. From there, we learn our country has 50 states and 50 capitals within each state. All 50 capitals have a unique history, which means there are 50 reasons why a specific city or town was chosen to be a state capital. In addition, we eventually learn how governments operate and the vital roll each state plays in our national government.

Looking for an adventure? Take a road trip for your next vacation. Chances are you’ll find a lot more than 50 reasons to enjoy the scenery. Whether visiting family and friends or another specific spot, do some road tripping to some scenic vistas and appreciate the history, flavor and cultures along the way.

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Are state capitals found in the largest cities of each states? No. The first state capitals were built according the where the majority of the population lived in a state, or near a main access hub. For example, in North Dakota the state capital is Bismarck, but was once the capital of the Dakota Territory. The Northern Pacific Railroad was built to transfer goods from eastern U.S. to the west, making Bismarck the prime location for state government. Bismarck became the official state capital only after the territory was split into 2 states–North and South Dakota.

Huh?

The letter Q is the only letter NOT found in any of the state names
Sweet Home, Alabama is a real place.
It’s illegal to bury people in San Francisco, California.
New Jersey has a volcano.
South Carolina has a place called Monkey Island, that has over 4,000 rhesus monkeys.
The state bird for Wisconsin is a plastic flamingo.
There are more chickens in Delaware than there are people.
The Empire State Building in New York has it’s own zip code.

State Capitals in Small Cities

Juneau, Alaska, population est. 32,300.
Dover, Delaware, population est. 39,400.
Frankfort, Kentucky, population est. 28,600.
Augusta, Maine, population est. 18,900.
Annapolis, Maryland, population est. 40,800.
Jefferson City, Missouri, population est. 43,230.
Helena, Montana, population est. 32,100.
Concord, New Hampshire, population est. 4,000.
Pierre, South Dakota, population est. 14,100.
Montpelier, Vermont, population est. 8,100.

BEHIND NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

Dick & Jane Educational Snacks receives credit for the idea to celebrate National States and Capitals Day on September 22. Not only does it raise awareness about the importance of knowing all 50 states and capitals, it reminds people to have fun while learning.

LEARN YOUR STATES AND CAPITALS

Divide learning about states into regions to learn each region before moving on to the next.
Check out a book from the library each week on a specific state to learn facts. Return the book and pick another state until all states have been covered.
Learn fun facts about states. What famous people are from there? What kind of tourist attractions might be fun to visit?
Fix a puzzle with all 50 states and capitals.
Draw a map of the United States with the states and fill in the capitals, too.
Use Dick & Jane Educational Snacks to help your kids learn about states and capitals.
Tag your videos learning states and capitals on social media #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay.

State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map#NationalStatesandCapitalsDay — State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map

Dick & Jane Educational Snacks | STATES & CAPITALS - 120 bags featuring all 50 states from Alabama to Wyoming
#NationalStatesandCapitalsDay — State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map

CARE BEARS SHARE YOUR CARE DAY

September 8, 2026September 8, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

On September 9th, Care Bears Share Your Care Day inspires giving and volunteering in significant ways.

For more than 35 years, Care Bears have taught children of all ages about sharing their feelings and caring for others. The Care Bears toy line was initially introduced in 1983 to caring fans everywhere. And they’ve never been out of the heart and minds of fans since.

At their core, CARE BEARS™ SHARE YOUR CARE DAY have heart and are all about love, caring, and sharing with others. Care Bears also support charities around the world, helping families in need. Through We Care Bears, ZachKapCares, Fathom/en-ABLE, United Way, Operation Smile, and many more they bring hope and caring to others.

With help from a team of Care Bears Ambassadors, Care Bears hope to generate national support for a movement called #ShareYourCare to inspire people toward philanthropic generosity not just on that day, but every day of the year!

Care Bears - 14" Plush - Wish Bear — Care Bears – 14″ Plush – Wish Bear

Hopeful Heart Bear — Care Bears – 14″ Plush – Wish Bear

HISTORY OF NATIONAL CARE BEARS #SHAREYOURCARE DAY

Care Bears #ShareYourCare Day was submitted by American Greetings Entertainment in April 2015.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ShareYourCareDay

The main focus of Share Your Care Day is to inspire acts of kindness and goodwill across the United States and beyond. And, a team of Care Bears Ambassadors and Care Bears partners pledge to help make this goal come true. Care Bears have taught fans worldwide the importance of caring for others. Share Your Care Day is the perfect opportunity for everyone to participate in acts of kindness – and to remember that goodwill and consideration toward others are essential every day of the year.

Participation is as simple as doing something nice for someone else.

Treat a friend to coffee.
Share a toy with a sibling.
Do an extra chore without being asked.
Help an older neighbor bring their trash cans to the street.
Organize a tree-planting campaign.
Buy a meal for a homeless family.
Volunteer at a local charity.
Animal Allies always needs fosters for kitties.
Not sure how to help? Try this.

The #ShareYourCare movement is all about acts of kindness, big and small. Care Bears encourage you to do something nice for someone today. Care Bears hope to encourage you to be kind, think of others and #ShareYourCare every day

Use #ShareYourCare Day on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Featured Image from Care Bears Facebook page.

Care Bears 16", Birthday ,Scented, Plush - Soft Huggable Material!, — Care Bears 16″, Birthday ,Scented, Plush – Soft Huggable Material!,

Care Bears Grumpy Bear — Care Bears 16″, Birthday ,Scented, Plush – Soft Huggable Material!,

SELF-IMPROVEMENT MONTH

August 31, 2026August 7, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 7 Comments

We all learn something every day whether we realize it or not. Self-Improvement Month in September encourages us to make a conscious effort to improve ourselves.

Self-improvement means something different to everyone. However, the basis for any self-improvement goal is learning. Whether we want to master a new skill, take an introspective look at our spiritual lives, scale the career ladder or overcome an obstacle, we must learn to make that improvement. The path we choose to take toward self-improvement is also as varied as the goals we set. Some goals might include:

Eating healthier
Reading more
Reducing screen time
Finding peace
Connecting with nature
Finding love
Learning to cook
Speaking a second language fluently
Getting more exercise
Learning to communicate
Reducing stress
Returning to school
Developing patience

Libraries and bookstores are full of books that help us to improve ourselves. They cover every topic listed above and thousands more. You can also find blogs, webinars, and courses to help you on your self-improvement journey. The month encourages everyone to explore the ways in which we can improve. It may involve tasks left undone, dreams, a career goal, family life, or any number of facets of our life. Take the month to explore all the possibilities and keep learning!

SELF-IMPROVEMENT MONTH HISTORY

In the 1980s, organizations began promoting Self-Improvement Month with seminars, books, and informational pamphlets. By 1988, the observance coalesced into a nationwide event every year in September.

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Be an Angel Day
Random Acts of Kindness
World Kindness Day
Kiss of Hope Day
National Make A Friend Day
Global Love Day
National Compliment Day
Do A Grouch A Favor Day
Cheer up the Lonely Day
National Joygerm Day
National Month of Hope
Inspire Your Heart with Art
Good Samaritan Day
National Soup It Forward Day
Make A Friend Day Make A Friend Day
Do Something Nice Day
Make A Difference Day
National Gratitude Day
National Day of Encouragement
National Brave Day
Care Bears Share Your Care Day
Love is Kind Day
Upsy Daisy Day
Self Care Awareness Month
Self Improvement Month
Universal Hour of Peace
World Smile Day
Happiness happens Day
Happiness Happens Month
National Cuddle Up Day
National Loving Day
Summersgiving
National Play Catch Week
Social Media Giving Day
International Drop A Rock Day
International Clown Week
Happiness Month
International Top Spinning Day
Hunt For Happiness Week
Best Friends Day
National Random Act of Light Day
National Find A Rainbow Day

HOW TO OBSERVE #SelfImprovementMonth

Where would you like to see improvement in your life? Make a list and then pick a goal. Then get started with these ideas:

Explore the library or the internet for ways to take on your new goal.
Enlist others to join you on your journey.
Write it down.
Track your progress.
Adjust the goal as you get closer.
Reward yourself along the way.
Join a group with a common goal.

Share your journey of self-improvement using #SelfImprovementMonth to post on social media.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones#SelfImprovementMonth — Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

Fearlessly Me Self-Love Workbook for Confidence & Success: The Audacious Power of Being An Outlier & Unleashing Your True Self#SelfImprovementMonth — Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

August 20, 2026August 19, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

On August 21st, National Senior Citizens Day recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of our nation. The day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives.

Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant#SeniorCitizensDay — Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant

Freedom Alert, Landline Personal Emergency Device, 2-Way Call with Family and Police for Home Safety, Device for Seniors and The Elderly#SeniorCitizensDay — Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant

According to the 2017 census, 47 million seniors live in the United States. By 2060, that number will nearly double. Their wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience offer so much to the next generation. As technologies advance, these are the people who’ve experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today.

By the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it. ~ George Burns

Just Getting Started

Morgan Freeman (Actor), Tommy Lee Jones (Actor), & 1 more

Our senior citizens are pioneers of science, medicine, psychology, civil rights and so much more. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live. They deserve the respect and dignity their achievements earn them. The day encourages supporting senior citizens to live their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #SeniorCitizensDay

Spend time with the senior citizens you know. Let them know they are appreciated and loved. It may also be a good day to volunteer at a retirement home. Share your smile with those who may not otherwise get a visitor today.

Secondhand Lions [Blu-ray]

Michael Caine (Actor), Robert Duvall (Actor), & 1 more — Secondhand Lions

Michael Caine (Actor), Robert Duvall (Actor), & 1 more

As Covid19 is still a great concern for these age groups, take it virtual. Video chats, telephone calls, even a special care package direct from Amazon will seriously brighten someones day. With lockdowns being reimposed, communication becomes more important.

Lockdowns mean in some cases they are confined to thier rooms. They cannot speak to or see each other. They can no longer have activities and social meals. No physical therapies room, and no exercise in the halls. While these measures are ment to protect them, they still fall short as we have seen by the numbers reported from facilities. Some do a very good job and some are still struggling.

The biggest danger is the isolation many feel. With no visitors allowed they have been cut off from family, community outreach and as I said even each other. I’ve worked with seniors for many years, that social interaction helps prevent both mental and physical decline. Some more than others profoundly feel the effects. No one wants to be forgotten.

Send a card, chat, patiently endure teaching about technology if possible. Remember when you get frustrated, they may have taught you how to use a spoon.. among other things.

Grumpy Old Men

Jack Lemmon (Actor), Walter Matthau (Actor), & 1 more — Grumpy Old Men (DVD)

Jack Lemmon (Actor), Walter Matthau (Actor), & 1 more

If you are a senior citizen, check for special discounts and promotions that may be offered at stores and restaurants in your area.

Use #SeniorCitizensDay to post on social media.

Red (Special Edition) [Blu-ray]

Bruce Willis (Actor), Morgan Freeman (Actor), & 1 more

NATIONAL CONNECTICUT DAY

August 9, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

Woven into the fabric of this state’s historic landscape, we find revolutionaries, innovators, and philosophers. On August 10th, National Connecticut Day recognizes the contributions of the fifth state to join the United States of America.

Connecticut Icons: Classic Symbols of the Nutmeg State Kindle Edition

by Charles Monagan (Author) — Connecticut Icons: Classic Symbols of the Nutmeg State

by Charles Monagan (Author)

Like other colonies of the region, the Dutch first explored and founded trading posts in Connecticut. In 1633, Puritans from Massachusetts established the first permanent settlement. From the outset, the industry established a means to prosperity in the colony. Production of brass buttons and munitions placed the colony in a position to later supply the Revolutionary Army. The colonial governor of Connecticut, Jonathan Trumbull, was the only governor who supported independence.

All three Connecticut delegates to the first Continental Congress continued their representation of the colony at the Second Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence.

Creating Connecticut: Critical Moments That Shaped a Great State Kindle Edition

by Walter W. Woodward (Author) — Creating Connecticut: Critical Moments That Shaped a Great State

by Walter W. Woodward (Author)

In fact, Roger Sherman is the only person to have signed the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution. Eliphalet Dyer served the state of Connecticut as chief justice after the revolution.

Silas Deane served as a spy during the war and was for a time branded a traitor along with another Connecticut native, Benedict Arnold. He died penniless, but decades later in 1840, his granddaughter would petition Congress to review his records. His name would be cleared.

Connecticut’s small but full landscape holds countless revolutionary stories and adventures along New England’s National Scenic Trail. Through every season and every era, there’s something for every generation to enjoy!