Teaching January 2026

As the calendar turns to January, it’s the perfect time to revisit big ideas and introduce new perspectives in the classroom. This month’s notable dates invite students to explore science, history, and innovation in thoughtful ways. With Kids Discover Online, educators can transform these moments into engaging learning experiences. Explore the January dates below and the Units that support each lesson.

January 4 – Isaac Newton’s Birthday

Born on January 4, 1643, Isaac Newton is widely regarded as one of the most influential scientists of all time. His work on motion and gravity changed how we understand the physical world. Use this day to explore physics concepts with our Gravity Unit, where students can learn how forces affect objects and why gravity keeps planets in orbit, and our feet on the ground.

January 4 – World Braille Day

World Braille Day honors the birth of Louis Braille, the inventor of the braille reading system, and highlights the importance of accessibility for people who are blind or visually impaired. This is a meaningful opportunity to discuss how people experience and interact with the world in different ways. Pair this day with our Eyes Unit, which explores how vision works.

January 5 – Golden Gate Bridge Construction Begins (1933)

Construction on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge began on January 5, 1933. At the time, it was considered an incredible engineering challenge due to strong winds, deep waters, and frequent fog. Students can explore how engineers solve real-world problems using our Bridges Unit, learning about design, materials, and the science behind building structures that last.

January 8 – Earth’s Rotation Day

Earth’s Rotation Day highlights one of the most important motions of our planet: its daily spin on its axis, which causes day and night and helps regulate life on Earth. This rotation also plays a role in weather patterns and sets the foundation for understanding time, seasons, and celestial events. Use the Rotation, Revolution, and Eclipses Topic from our Sun Unit to help students visualize how Earth’s rotation and revolution work together—and how these movements affect what we observe in the sky.

January 15 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., born January 15, 1929, was a powerful leader of the Civil Rights Movement who advocated for equality through nonviolent protest. Although his birthday is celebrated nationally on the third Monday in January, this date is an important moment to reflect on his legacy. Our MLK Jr. Unit helps students learn about his life, leadership, and lasting impact, encouraging thoughtful discussions about justice, courage, and community.

January 20 – Penguin Awareness Day

Penguin Awareness Day shines a spotlight on one of the world’s most beloved animals—and the fragile ecosystems they depend on. Penguins are closely connected to Earth’s coldest regions, making this a great time to explore our Antarctica Unit, particularly Penguins in Antarctica, and our Emperor Penguins Topic. Students can learn about penguin adaptations, polar habitats, and why protecting these environments is so important.

January 31 – Jackie Robinson’s Birthday

Born on January 31, 1919, Jackie Robinson changed history by breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947. His bravery and perseverance made him a symbol of progress both in sports and in the fight for civil rights. Our Jackie Robinson Unit gives students an in-depth look at his life and legacy, offering meaningful lessons about resilience, fairness, and the power of standing up for what’s right.