Kids Around the World, www.katw.org/index.cfm, hooks you up with other children from all over the globe. The Internet is an amazing tool that can introduce us to new and interesting people. This site aims to help you do just that. Choose from Africa, Asia, The Americas and Europe to begin. Each location has a set of profiles you can browse through, such as Dine and Sadam of Benin or Phuong of Vietnam. Many different countries are represented, so take your time and enjoy this cultural meet-and-greet.

The Ocean Over Time, http://ocean.si.edu/ocean-over-time/top-predators-timeline, introduces you to the most dangerous creatures that have prowled the seas. Click on Begin Journey Through Time and spiral into the murky depths to discover what you should watch out for. Each animal class, such as the Anomalocaridids and the Ammonites, comes with a size comparison so you can see how big they were compared to humans. From razor-sharp teeth to creepy claws, these super-predators will rock your world.

Welcome to the Museum of Art Masters, www.kyrene.k12.az.us/
schools/brisas/sunda/art/arthome.
htm, where you can read what third-graders have to say about 11 of the “greatest artists of all time.” Choose one of the color-coded artists to begin. Did you know that Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec met Vincent Van Gogh in art class? You might also be surprised to learn that Henri Matisse tried law school and found it boring. Next time you try to draw animals, remember that Leonardo da Vinci, a great painter and draftsman, began his craft in the same fashion.

Who inspires you the most? Why?

Speak Out Here!

Dear Amy: Can you give me some websites to find out how to make a volcano and build a jet pack? — Keyon, Moncks Corner, S.C.

Dear Keyon: I have always been fascinated by volcanoes, like many kids. It would be so cool to see one erupt – from a safe distance, of course. Since real eruptions can be dangerous, making your own model volcano is the next best thing. You can find great instructions for how to build a volcano at www.stormthecastle.com/how-to-make-a/how-to-make-a-volcano.htm. If you prefer instructions in video format, check out www.mahalo.com/how-to-make-a-model-volcano. Whether you choose dough, papier-mâché or plaster of paris, this project is a fun way to get your hands dirty.

As for the jet pack, they're pretty popular in science fiction, and some people assumed we would all be flying around with them by now. Real jet packs do exist but are hard to come by, since they cost over $200,000, and they're too complicated to make at home.

If you want to learn how real jet packs work, visit http://science.howstuff
works.com/transport/engines-equipment/jet-pack.htm. You can dream!

—Amy

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