Acknowledging ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day is a significant time in Australia and New Zealand to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have served in war and peacekeeping. While the themes can be complex, children are often curious about why we commemorate this day. Offering a gentle, age-appropriate introduction to ANZAC Day helps foster understanding, compassion, and a sense of connection to community.
On ANZAC Day we will remember them. To teach your little one about the importance of ANZAC Day, we’ve recorded the beautiful story ‘ANZAC Biscuits’ that was written by Phil Cummins and illustrated by Allan Swan. This a touching story of a family torn apart by war but brought together through the simplicity of Anzac Biscuits. This story offers families a gentle way to introduce children to remembrance, service, and the values of empathy and gratitude. It encourages connection, reflection, and appreciation for those who have served.We hope that you enjoy the story and explore the resources in our ANZAC Day learning pack.
To support your child’s understanding of ANZAC Day, see our video on Anzac Biscuits, a story that blends family love with the reality of war. As you watch together, take the opportunity to talk about what’s happening in the story. This isn’t just about the biscuits themselves, but the connection they represent between those at home and the soldiers far away. For young children, that emotional connection is a gentle and meaningful way to introduce the idea of remembrance.
The illustrations subtly shift from warm, comforting tones to grey and sombre colours, reflecting the contrast between home and the battlefield. This visual change can spark meaningful conversations about emotions and safety, helping children interpret what they see and feel. Try asking, “What colours do you see?” or “How does Rachel feel when she is baking for her dad?”
After watching the story, we encourage families to take part in simple follow-up activities, such as baking ANZAC biscuits or crafting paper poppies. These experiences support hands-on learning and help reinforce the values shared in the story. You could also use the opportunity to reflect on your own family stories or connections to remembrance days. This approach brings history into the present in a way that is both meaningful and accessible.
Downloadable ANZAC Day Resource Pack
- Simple ANZAC Day Story
A simplified written version of the ANZAC narrative helps children understand the significance of the day through accessible language and ideas. - What Does ANZAC Stand For?
This activity introduces the meaning behind the word ANZAC and provides an early opportunity to talk about history and national identity. - ANZAC Biscuits Recipe
Following a recipe allows children to practise sequencing, measuring, and independence while learning about how these biscuits were sent to soldiers during the war. - Poppy Craft
Making red poppies is a creative way for children to express themselves and participate in remembrance through art. - Map Puzzle
By locating Australia and New Zealand, children can begin to understand geography in the context of ANZAC Day. - Flag Puzzle
This helps introduce the concept of national symbols and encourages conversations about unity and community.
This resource pack is designed to extend your child’s learning through meaningful, hands-on activities. Each activity offers an opportunity to explore ANZAC Day in an age-appropriate and engaging way. You can use these activities as talking points to support your child’s understanding and to create space for reflection and creativity.