How Can Kids Show Patriotism?

Explain a brief history of the country and the flag.

Patriotism shouldn’t be reserved for the Fourth of July. Children can and should learn about patriotism throughout the year. Teaching children about the history of the country helps them appreciate how others have fought for the freedom they enjoy. Encouraging children to show their patriotism can inspire other children to learn more and will show those who have fought for the country that they are appreciated.

Flag Crafts

Making flag crafts is an easy task even preschoolers can do. Make paper flags by gluing red strips onto white paper. Glue on blue squares decorated with white stars, and help children tape the flags to windows so passersby can see the creations. To make wearable flags, help children draw them onto white T-shirts using fabric paint, and help girls tie white, blue and red ribbons onto hair elastics. Every time a child wears her creations, everyone will be able to see her pride.

Volunteering

Encouraging children to do volunteer work teaches them to be compassionate and selfless, and it also allows them to thank those who have fought for the country. Help children learn patriotic songs and visit a veterans hospital or veterans center to perform the songs and thank the veterans. Teaching children to take care of their community also teaches them to be grateful for the government and their community leaders. Contact city hall to find out what children can do to help, such as planting flowers in a local park or helping collect trash.

Thank the Soldiers

Putting children in touch with soldiers teaches them about the sacrifice these brave men and women make, and soldiers who have been in battle or are far from home will appreciate hearing from grateful children. Search online for an organization that connects active-duty soldiers with children, and choose a soldier to adopt. Help children write letters, make drawings and put together gift packages to ship to the soldier. To help soldiers who have returned from war, contact a local veterans group to ask whether you can bake and drop off cookies or other treats to soldiers who have recently come home.

Throw a Parade

Children love any excuse to throw a parade. Organize a group of children to march down the streets of their neighborhood on a warm day, reminding all the neighbors to think about patriotism as well. Help children tie balloons and streamers onto their bikes, scooters and wagons and make signs saying things such as “We Love the USA!” on poster board. Gather some adult chaperones to walk at the front and back of the group and set off down the sidewalk, singing patriotic songs.

References

• Grandparents.com; 7 Ways to Teach Kids What July 4th Means; What Can We Do For Our Country?
• Scholastic: Summer of Celebrations