How to Explain Memorial Day to a Child (2024)

As a licensed practitioner who works with kids, I know how important it is to help children understand the meaning and significance of Memorial Day. While it can be a complex topic to explain, there are several effective ways to convey the essence of this holiday to young minds. In this blog post, I’ll share some strategies and ideas for explaining Memorial Day to a child in a way that is both relatable and respectful.

1. Focus on Gratitude and Appreciation

One of the simplest ways to help a child understand Memorial Day is to emphasize the importance of saying “thank you” to the brave individuals who have served our country. You can explain that Memorial Day is a special time when we honor and express our gratitude to the military members who have sacrificed their lives to keep us safe and protect our freedom.

You might say something like, “On Memorial Day, we take time to remember and thank the courageous men and women who died while serving in the military. They worked hard to keep our country and everyone in it safe. We must show our appreciation for their bravery and dedication.”

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2. Connect Through Tangible Experiences

Children often learn best through hands-on activities and real-world experiences. Attending a Memorial Day parade or event can be a meaningful way to help your child grasp the holiday’s significance. As you watch the veterans and active-duty military members marching by, point them out to your child and explain how they have served our country.

You can also visit a veterans cemetery with your child. Walking among the rows of headstones, you can explain that each one represents a person who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. This tangible experience can leave a lasting impression on a young mind and help them understand the gravity of the occasion.

3. Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance

Did you know that at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute to remember and honor those who have died in military service? This is known as the National Moment of Remembrance. Participating in this shared moment of silence with your child can be a powerful way to connect them to the larger community and reinforce the day’s importance.

You might explain, “At 3:00 PM on Memorial Day, people across the country will stop what they’re doing and be silent for one minute. We’ll consider the brave soldiers who died to keep us safe during this time. It’s a way for all of us to show our respect and appreciation together.”

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If you have family members or friends who have served in the military, sharing their stories with your child can help make Memorial Day more relatable. You can show photos, medals, or other mementos and explain how these individuals contributed to our country. Even if you don’t have a personal connection, you can still share age-appropriate stories of heroism and sacrifice from our nation’s history.

By putting a human face on the holiday, you can help your child develop empathy and appreciation for the men and women who have served. As a pediatric therapist, I’ve seen how powerful personal stories can be in helping children understand and connect with complex ideas.

5. Emphasize the Celebrations and Traditions

While the primary focus of Memorial Day is remembrance and gratitude, it’s also often celebrated with family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Engaging your child in these traditions can help them associate the holiday with positive experiences and a sense of community.

As you enjoy these activities, take moments to remind your child of the reason behind the celebrations. You might say, “We’re having this picnic to enjoy time with family and friends, but let’s remember the brave soldiers who made it possible for us to have this freedom. Without their sacrifice, we wouldn’t be able to celebrate like this.”

By combining moments of reflection with festive traditions, you can help your child develop a well-rounded understanding of Memorial Day. In fact, a recent survey found that 82% of Americans believe it’s essential to teach children about the significance of the holiday. By taking the time to explain Memorial Day to your child, you’re contributing to a national tradition of remembrance and gratitude.

Helping a child understand and appreciate the meaning of Memorial Day is an important responsibility for any parent or caregiver. By focusing on gratitude, participating in tangible experiences, sharing personal stories, and engaging in community traditions, you can make this abstract concept more accessible and meaningful for young minds. As we enjoy the freedoms and safety made possible by the sacrifices of our military heroes, let us never forget to pass on their legacy to the next generation.

Helpful Resources

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• United Service Organizations (USO)
• Military.com

FAQ’s About How to Explain Memorial Day to a Child

What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors and remembers those who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed on the last Monday of May each year.
How can I explain Memorial Day to my child?
You can explain to your child that Memorial Day is a special day when we remember and thank the brave men and women who died while serving in the military to protect our country and our freedom.
What are some ways to teach children about Memorial Day?
Some ways to teach children about Memorial Day include visiting memorials or cemeteries, attending local events, reading books or watching videos about the holiday, and creating patriotic crafts or artwork.
Should I take my child to a Memorial Day event?
Taking your child to a Memorial Day event can be a meaningful way to help them understand the significance of the holiday. However, consider your child's age and sensitivity, as some events may include solemn ceremonies or discussions about death.
How can I make Memorial Day relatable for my child?
To make Memorial Day relatable for your child, you can focus on the importance of showing gratitude, respect, and appreciation for those who serve and protect us, and emphasize the value of freedom and the sacrifices made to achieve it.