Wednesday, May 18, 2022

How to Talk to Kids About Memorial Day

 Military Cemetery with flags

Memorial Day Weekend marks the start of the summer for most families; however, it's important to remember the true meaning of the holiday. For many people, particularly military families, memorial day is the one day of the year dedicated to honoring those who sacrificed their lives to protect their country. 


Before you get too caught up in the barbecues and picnics, take some time to teach and talk with your kids about Memorial Day's purpose, history, and meaning. 


While Memorial Day may seem like a dark topic to discuss with kids, this is a perfect opportunity to help children understand that those in military service are heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could live in freedom. Plus, you can keep it lighter, happier, and fun with all the festivities going on! 


Here are some simple and easy ways to celebrate and talk about Memorial Day with your kids: 

  • Have a Moment of Silence. While you're celebrating with friends and families, ask your guests to pause for a moment of silence to remember those who lost their lives while protecting our country. Invite guests to call out names of loved ones they have personally lost while serving in the military and even say a prayer or sing a patriotic song. Children will pick up on the somber tone and remember the seriousness of the holiday.

  • Create, Fly, and Honor the Flag. Raise an American flag at home with your kids, and talk about how the flag is used to honor veterans. What do the stars and stripes mean, and why red, white, and blue? This is the perfect time to answer these questions. You can even have an arts and crafts time and have your kids make their own American flags to decorate and hang around the house. 

  • Visit a Cemetery of War Memorial. Take a moment to visit a veteran's cemetery or war memorial near you. War memorials will often have some essential educational information that you can discuss with your children. Bring flowers to lie on the graves of fallen veterans or memorials to honor and remember those who served. 

  • Volunteer to Help Veterans. Many local churches or veterans groups in your area will often have service projects that need volunteers. If you can, take your family to help volunteer and meet veterans. Take time to speak with them, and even bring cards, treats, or drawings to show your appreciation. It is the ultimate gesture of respect and will impact both the veterans and your kids!

  • Attend a Parade. Find a local parade in your area to celebrate with the kids. Wave your flags and teach your children to stand and clap when the veterans go by in the parade. If you can't find a parade, then watch one on TV!


Adolf Funeral Home and Cremation Services prides itself on providing exemplary customer services. We take every measure to ensure you are satisfied with all your funeral planning and burial needs during this sensitive time of grief and mourning. We will do whatever it takes to make our positive workplace environment translate to your experience with us. 


Adolf Funeral Home has served the Berwyn and Willowbrook areas for many years. We pride ourselves on being large enough to provide professionalism and reliability yet small enough to provide personalized service. To discover more about how we can serve your needs, please visit our website or call one of our locations today.



Sources: 

https://www.military.com/memorial-day/celebrating-memorial-day-with-children.html#:~:text=The%20simplest%20thing%20you%20can,have%20paid%20the%20ultimate%20sacrifice

https://milspousefest.com/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-memorial-day/ 

https://themilitarywifeandmom.com/5-simple-ways-teach-your-kids-about-memorial-day/ 


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