Tech Wednesday: Santa Tracking as an Educational Tool

This will be my last Tech Wednesday post for the year; although never fret I will pick this back up in the New Year on January 7^th.

You may be wondering why I chose the NORAD tracks Santa site as an educational site to share. I know it is not non-denominational but it is a cute site with some interesting goodies packed in there. Although I do recommend that you check your district policies regarding Christmas.

I like this site as an educator because it has the ability to hook kids in to a topic in a roundabout sort of way and gives you a platform from which to launch into a discussion. This site has Holiday related activities and games for the littler kids and some historical information on Santa, NORAD, and how NORAD got into the Santa Tracking business. I also think of it as a great way to introduce students to world geography because as they follow Santa around the world NORAD Officers give little trivia tidbits on specific places Santa visits.

Currently there is a video up and a countdown clock showing how long till Santa starts his journey. The video is a little teaser of what you will see as Santa makes his travels "live". You can also attach a feature to your Google Earth that allows you to see Santa's adventures in 3D.

Wishing all of you a Happy Holiday and a Merry New Year.