Ways to Observe Memorial Day with Kids

Memorial Day is so much more than fun in the sun with friends and family. It’s not just the unofficial kick off of summer or when the pools open. It’s a time of remembrance and reflection. A time for us to show our respects for the soldiers, marines, and sailors who have served in our military and lost their lives. Those men and women who have selflessly given of their time and their lives so we have freedom in our country.
While Memorial Day Weekend has become packed with backyard BBQ’s and trips to the lake it’s important to take time to for remembrance. Also share the true meaning for the 3 day holiday weekend with our kids.
Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day with Kids
- Teach the Reason for the Holiday – Share how Memorial Day is in honor of those who have served in our countries armed forces and have lost their lives. Depending upon the age of your child you can share more about the sacrifice the men and women have made.
- Read a Book – Children’s experts recommend the book The Wall by Eve Bunting as a way to share the meaning of Memorial Day.
- Fly the U.S. Flag – Share about the importance of the flag. Also why we fly the flag at half-mast until noon on Memorial Day, as it’s a time for mourning for our country. Then we raise it up for the remainder of the day.
- Make a Craft – While you’re making one of these fun crafts like the Rustic Flag, Tissue Flag, Windsock, or Red, White & Blue Handprint and Footprint projects you have plenty of time to talk about Memorial Day and it’s importance.
- Whip Up a Red, White & Blue Treat – You can start the day off with a Red, White & Blue Parfait. Make these fun Grilled Blackberry, Strawberry, Basil and Brie Pizza Crisps or Patriotic Watermelon & Feta Flag for your BBQ. For something sweet build these Red White and Blueberry Popsicles, Red, White, and Blue Fruit Skewers with Cheesecake Yogurt Dip, or Red, White & Blueberry Skewers.
- Talk About Family – While you are doing these other activities share about loved ones who have served in the military and who have passed.
- Decorate Graves of Loved Ones – Place flower and flags on graves of those who have served and lost their lives.
- Attend a Local Parade – Check locally for events you can attend. You can also look on vetfriends.com for parades.
- Participate in National Remembrance – At 3pm local time participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. Say a pray for all those who’ve served our country and lost their lives.
Even if all you do is talk about the meaning of the holiday and don’t get a chance to do any of the activities above it will be meaningful. It’s important for the younger generation to know the true meaning behind the holiday.