The Educators' Spin On It

Learning Games and Activities

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Sharing Memorial Day with Kids

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, it’s also a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, and celebrate our nation’s freedom.

How to Discuss Memorial Day with Kids from The Educators' Spin On It

What is Memorial Day?

 

When your kids ask, “What is Memorial Day?,” be prepared to give them the proper answer. Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in our nation’s service. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed by General John Logan on May 5, 1868 and was observed later that month on May 30 when flowers were placed on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers who were buried at Arlington Cemetery.

Teaching the meaning of Memorial Day to your children can be a challenge. We want our children to understand why this holiday means so much to our country’s history and our military families. The simplest thing you can do to honor this holiday with your children is to spend time talking to them about what Memorial Day means to you. Take the day to talk and reflect on those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Another way is to spend time learning about patriotism and why we celebrate our nation’s freedom.  There is a reason why so many have given the ultimate sacrifice… it’s for the honor of our country, The United States of America.  Building a sense of pride is important!
  • Honor and Respect
  • Visit and Pay Tribute
  • Celebrate with a Parade
  • Recognize our Heroes
  • Educate with History
  • Create with Crafts
  • Break Bread Together
  • Make a Soldier’s Day

 

Here are some Helpful links for Memorial Day Activities


Edible Flag Snack 
Patriotic Activities for Kids 
Water Color an America Flag
American Symbols Packet
Handprint Flag
Handprint and Footprint Flag
Patriotic Preschool Pack
Flag Craft
Medal of Honor
Memorial Day Crafts & Worksheets
The Real Meaning of Memorial Day
Memorial Day Lesson Plans and Activities
Red and White Pinwheels
Memorial Day Necklace
Paper Poppies
Memorial Day Puzzles for Kids
Cool Facts About Veterans
Patriotic Preschool Activities
3 Simple Ways to Observe Veterans Day with Kids
10 Ways to Encourage Patriotism in Kids 

Do you have a special soldier that you’re remembering today?

We’d love for you to share your story with us. 

Like this idea? Pin for later or share now with a friend!

Comments

  1. You have so many great ideas here. I'm going to add a link to this post to my own Memorial Day post.

    Reply

  5. Thanks Cristin! Your handprint and footprint flag is adorable, I can't wait to do it with my children for 4th of July and mail it off to their grandparents. Thanks for sharing the idea!

    Reply

  7. Thanks for all the great ideas and links. I know my daughter will like the handprint flag. I'll share with you some Memorial Day vocabulary word games that I'm using with my daughter at SpellingCity.com
    http://tinyurl.com/kjkkjjb

    Reply

  8. Excellent post and so handy to many ideas in one spot. Thank you! Linking to this in my post on our Memorial Day.

    Reply

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