How do you teach a four year old what Memorial Day is, in a way he can understand?
It isn't Veterans' Day. It's the day we honor our soldiers that lost their lives in service to our nation, and to us.
How do I teach my four year old son, and two year old daughter about that?
25 minutes ago
One way to start would be a visit to any National Military Cemetery. Obviously Arlington would top the list if within reasonable travelling distance since they could also see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Age 2 might be a bit early to start comprehending the sacrifice the troops made but 4 definitely isn't.
ReplyDeleteThat's about a day and a half of solid driving away from where we live...not something we can do with young children. There is one in a town about an hour from here, though. Good suggestion--thanks.
ReplyDeleteThis is what I did with Progeny. Every year, we go to our local cemetery, and we walk it. And I point out all the graves with flags on them. We have one that dates to the Spanish American War. And I answer her questions. And then we sat on a bench, and we prayed for their souls. We prayed a Rosary; YMMV. Even local places may have veterans buried there.
ReplyDeleteIs there a VFW or American Legion in your town? Find out when and where they will be doing their rifle ceremony for the fallen and just show up.
One year I showed up in uniform, and got handed a M1 Garand, and got drafted onto the Salute Squad.
I may well do that. There is a VFW--we pass it a lot. Don't know about the other.
DeleteI think we missed our chance this year, but will do next year.
Honestly, I think that age is a bit early. I would suggest starting with respect for country, flag, soldiers. Let them know these men and women pledge their life to keep them safe. I believe you're home schooling - when then get elementary school aged chat with the local post commander for the VFW and fine a couple of vets to visit and chat with. I think the whole "they gave their life for their country" would be well beyond them right now. But, "those soldiers do their best to protect you" is closer the what they can grasp. All in my opinion Ms. H. Thank you for caring enough to teach them - so many parents choose not to any more.
ReplyDeleteThat I'm already doing. We go up and shake hands and say thanks to anyone in uniform or in a veteran's ball cap.
DeleteEnjoy your kids. No one who served wants Memorial day to be dark or frightening. When they are old enough to understand the concepts of "sacrifice", "duty", and "love" all mixed together in "patriotism" then you can have a real conversation with them about what Memorial day is supposed to remember. Until then, just enjoy the time you have with them, it is what millions of Veterans, even the ones who lost their lives, want for you, and them.
ReplyDeleteThat's why I'm having such a hard time: I want them to understand that this day is for those who gave everything, but I don't want to make it scary or too sad for a two and four year old.
DeleteUnfortunately you all have left something out of 'explaining the meaning of' Memorial Day.
DeleteStep 1, is explaining to them about WAR.....
Another reason I'm not sure how to teach them yet.
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