April is a time of renewal, from Easter and Passover to flowers blooming — in all their spring glory — in our yards. But along with that, April also has its share of other holidays and events.
Here are 10 special holidays and events families can mark in April:
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Autism Awareness Month
One in 59 children born in the United States is on the autism spectrum. It is the fastest-growing developmental disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Want to know more about autism? Read "The Warner Boys: Our Family's Story of Autism and Hope" by Ana and Curt Warner, whose twin sons were diagnosed with autism at 5 years old. For a list of Ventura County resources, check out the VC Autism Society's guide. April 1-30
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April Fool's Day
Kids are all about April Fool's Day! Make them giggle by adding googly eyes to everything in your fridge or pantry! Check out some other ways to celebrate and learn a bit more about the holiday here. Have fun! But always be wary. April 1
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Easter
This holiday marks the date Christians believe Jesus was resurrected. It's also a day kids look forward to because the Easter bunny visits! Check out this list of 40+ Non-Candy Easter Basket Ideas. April 4
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National Library Week
Libraries are at the heart of our communities and schools, providing a public space where all community members can come together to connect and learn. Pick up a book from the Simi Valley Library or Moorpark Library to celebrate! April 4-10
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National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
A great day to serve this perennial kid favorite for dinner! Ooey gooey goodness. "Adult" it up, if you must, by adding toppings like bacon, tomatoes, spinach, or portabella mushrooms. April 12
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Ramadan
Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of prayer, reflection, community, and fasting from sunrise to sunset. It is observed as a commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation and its annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Ramadan lasts about a month, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next. Check out this presentation by a member of the the Simi Valley Interfaith Council to learn more about the Muslim faith. April 12-May 12
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Day of Silence
The Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ students and allies take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ people in schools, followed by Break the Silence rallies to bring attention to ways their schools and communities can become more inclusive. Join in for the full day, or for three minutes of community silence and solidarity at 12 p.m. PDT. Find more, including lessons and activities, here. April 17
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National Park Week
Celebrate America's treasured parks! National Park Week is a time to explore amazing places, discover stories of history and culture, volunteer, and explore a national park. (Psst - our closest one is Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Ventura, but there are many others you can explore.) April 17-25
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Earth Day
This is a great day to assess how your family impacts the environment and think about small changes you can make to help our environment. April 22
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Pay It Forward Day
Mark this day by letting your kids come up with an act of kindness as a way to "pay it forward." It's a great way to show them that even small gestures of kindness matter — and ripple outward. Want to know more about the concept? Read "Pay It Forward," a novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde. April 28
