Squeezed between Halloween and Thanksgiving, Veterans Day can feel like the forgotten holiday and go unnoticed by children and adults alike.
The purpose behind this national holiday is to celebrate and honor American veterans for their patriotism and service and to recognize the sacrifices that so many men and women have made on our behalf.
Teaching our children to understand and appreciate the cost of freedom instills in them an appreciation for their country, government, and national history. Take time to teach children why we observe this important holiday and to bring attention to Veterans Day with activities and books that help children understand its importance.
1. Know a Veteran? Thank a Veteran.
Children often do not recognize that veterans are not just individuals in uniform, but that they can be everyday people, such as teachers, doctors, and mechanics. Ask your children if they know someone who served in the military. Discuss what those individuals are doing now within your community. If possible, thank them for their service!
2. Read Books Aloud (for readability)
Check out Veterans Day books from your library on the history and significance of Veterans Day. Here are a few recommended books to read for Veterans Day:
Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood
Valerie Pfundstein
Ages 3–7
A colorful rhyming picture book to help young children appreciate the individuals within our community who served.
The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and Her Tribute to Veterans
Barbara Walsh
Ages 7–10
This is the real-life story of Moina Belle Michael, a school teacher from Georgia during WWI, who established the red poppy as the symbol to honor and remember soldiers.
What is Veterans Day?
Margot Parker
Ages 4–9
This simple children’s book explains why we celebrate Veterans Day.
Klinger: A Story of Honor and Hope
Betsy Beard
Ages 8–12
Based on the story of a real horse who worked in Arlington National Cemetery, this heartfelt story tells the story of Klinger, a cassia horse who dreams of fame in the race track but finds fulfillment in honoring fallen soldiers. Beard is able to convey the solemnness and sacrifice of war in a context that young children can understand.
Tucky Jo and Little Heart
Patricia Polacco
Ages 4–9
This picture book tells the story of a WWII soldier and a young girl who helps him. Perfect for young children, this tale relates how the young soldier and little girl show kindness to each other during a difficult war.
3. Plant Red Poppies
Veterans Day, also called Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, is symbolized with a red poppy. Plant some red poppies with your children to honor the people who have served in our military. The flowers will provide a yearly reminder for your family. (This activity pairs perfectly with the The Poppy Lady.)
Learn more about the history of the poppy and Veterans Day here!
4. Veterans Day Art Project: Folded Paper Soldier
Have some artistic fun with this Veterans Day folded paper soldier and create a table decoration to honor Veterans or to present with a thank-you note to a veteran you know. Perfect for home or school, this Veterans Day art project is a great way to encourage children to celebrate Veterans Day in their home. To extend the learning, children can research different branches of the military or the history of Veterans Day.
Download your template for this folded paper soldier art activity.
Directions for Veterans Day craft:
- Begin with a 9″ (23 cm) square of construction paper in the color of your choosing. Follow the steps to make the basic cross-legged form.
- Cut out the head and the helmet and glue them to the body.
- Cut out the military seal of your choosing and glue it to the uniform.
- Cut out the Thank You, Veterans! poem and glue it to the front of the uniform as shown in the example.
- Use scraps of construction paper, paint, crayons, or colored pencils to add details to the helmet and uniform.
Watch a video of the activity below.
For more Veterans Day activities read Patriotic Lessons and Activities for Veterans Day.
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Heather Foudy is a certified elementary teacher with over 7 years’ experience as an educator and volunteer in the classroom. She enjoys creating lessons that are meaningful and creative for students. She is currently working for Evan-Moor’s marketing and communications team and enjoys building learning opportunities that are both meaningful and creative for students and teachers alike.