.png)
Memorial Day is an American holiday held on the last Monday in May. While still technically spring, many people view Memorial Day as the start to summer festivities. Barbeques, swimming, and all things red, white, and blue (in addition to a day off work for most!) are associated with this holiday. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated during the years following the Civil War. In the late 1860s, Americans began holding springtime tributes to honor those who had fallen during the conflict, decorating headstones of the fallen with flowers. After World War I, Decoration Day became more widely known as Memorial Day, a day to honor those who lost their lives in all wars and conflicts. If you’re looking to show your support this Memorial Day, check out these kid-friendly activities!
1. Write letters to troops. While Memorial Day honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, you can show your support for those currently serving by writing and sending letters. Organizations like Support our Troops collect letters and cards and send them to soldiers, airmen, and sailors all over the world.
2. Volunteer to place American Flags or flowers on military member’s graves. The National Cemetery Administration maintains 155 national cemeteries in 42 states and Puerto Rico. The location tool on their website can help you find a National Cemetery near your zip code, allowing you to know where to go to honor military veterans.
3. Celebrate with sidewalk chalk. This activity always reminds me of summer mornings and what better way to combine sunshine, summer, and special remembrances than with a unique work of art created by your kiddos. Feel free to keep with the red, white, and blue theme, or branch out and create colorful messages of thanks and remembrance.
4. Make a magazine mosaic of the American flag. This craft will not only upcycle your old magazines, but will also allow kids to show their patriotism and support of our country and its military.
5. Attend a Memorial Day parade. Lots of towns across the United States have parades on Memorial Day. Wear your red, white, and blue attire and show up for the festivities! If you’re feeling extra festive, you and the kiddos can make these patriotic parade sticks to show your support.
6. Printable Memorial Day Activities. On Beeloo, we have 100’s of printable Memorial Day activities that your kids will love.
