Veterans Day provides an excellent opportunity for families to engage in meaningful discussions about the significance of honoring those who serve in the military. It’s essential for children to grasp the essence of this holiday beyond just a day off from school.
No matter the age of your child, conversations about Veterans Day can foster gratitude, respect, and a deeper understanding of sacrifice. As suggested by Dr. Stefanie Mazer, a psychologist from Palm Beach, Florida, kids can learn that veterans are not just figures of history but actual neighbors, friends, and family members who have dedicated their lives to protecting us.
When Is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11. This date originally marked Armistice Day, proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 to honor the end of World War I and those who served. It has since evolved into a day to recognize all veterans who have contributed to national safety and security.
How To Explain Veterans Day To Kids by Age
When discussing Veterans Day, the depth of conversation should align with your child’s age and emotional maturity. Samantha Jones, a U.S. Navy veteran and mother, highlights the importance of engaging children based on their developmental stage.
Preschoolers
For preschoolers, keep explanations simple. You might describe veterans as brave individuals who served in the military to keep our country safe. Emphasize that Veterans Day is a chance for everyone to express thanks to these heroes, much like we appreciate firefighters and teachers.
Elementary school-age kids
At this age, children can handle more detailed information. Dr. Mazer suggests discussing different branches of the military—like the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force—and explaining that Veterans Day honors all who serve, not just those involved in combat situations.
You may also encourage them to think critically about concepts like courage and sacrifice, allowing for a deeper reflection on what service means. Jones adds her personal military experiences, focusing on teamwork and community rather than conflict.
Middle schoolers
For middle schoolers, the conversation can be enriched with historical context. Dr. Mazer recommends asking them how service might feel and discussing family members’ military experiences, allowing kids to relate current events to lessons learned in school.
High schoolers
As teenagers, students can grasp the concept of sacrifice more fully. Dr. Mazer suggests encouraging them to explore how veterans’ actions have safeguarded the freedoms they enjoy today. Discussing how they may serve their community—though not necessarily through military service—can create a connection to broader themes of responsibility and service.
Ways To Commemorate the Holiday With Your Kids
Commemorating Veterans Day should align with your children’s ages and your family’s connection to veterans.
The principal aim is to instill a sense of gratitude and respect for those who have served. Dr. Mazer emphasizes the significance of personal gestures, such as thanking veterans directly, especially those within the family.
Engaging in hands-on activities can enhance learning. Jones shares that her family often writes thank-you notes to veterans or creates care packages for local VA hospitals. Attending community events or ceremonies, where children can witness shared gratitude firsthand, can also deepen their appreciation for service.
Veterans can often find joy in sharing their stories, offering children a unique perspective on sacrifice. However, it’s vital to teach kids to respect the boundaries of those who may not wish to recount their experiences.
Quality time spent with veterans, like sharing meals, can be profoundly meaningful. For younger children, activities may include creating a flag or attending a local parade.
If local events are scarce, Dr. Raglin Bignall recommends collaborating with an organization to arrange for veterans’ photographs to be prominently displayed in the community.
Other thoughtful ideas include:
- Visiting a veterans’ memorial or monument
- Volunteering as a family
- Making donations to veterans’ organizations
- Exploring maps and photos related to a family member’s service
- Creating a scrapbook with memorabilia from a veteran
- Reading books about military history
- Creating patriotic crafts, like decorations or banners
The essence of this day should not be somber; rather, it should convey kindness and appreciation for those who served. As Jones puts it, fostering understanding of service encourages a spirit of connection and compassion.
As Dr. Mazer poignantly reminds us, gratitude is not reserved for a single day; we must continually honor and appreciate the sacrifices made by our veterans throughout the year.
