Remembrance Day, observed on 11th November, holds a significant place in Australia as a day to honour and remember the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces. While the concept can be difficult for young children to grasp fully, it is still important to introduce preschoolers to the themes of Remembrance Day in an age-appropriate and meaningful way. By using simple language and focusing on ideas such as peace, gratitude, and kindness, parents and educators can help children connect with the day’s significance.
In line with the Montessori approach, which emphasises hands-on learning and nurturing empathy through real-world experiences, toddlers and preschoolers can participate in meaningful activities that commemorate those lost in war, conflict, or peace operations. Through simple crafts and engaging projects, young children can connect with the day’s themes in an age-appropriate manner, while developing important skills.
This article provides practical strategies for explaining Remembrance Day to preschoolers and explore various Remembrance Day activities for preschoolers that focus on creating red poppy crafts and incorporating thoughtful reflection, all of which support child development and learning.
What is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the end of World War I, which concluded on 11th November 1918. It is a day dedicated to remembering those who died in military service, not just during World War I, but in all conflicts. In Australia, the day is commemorated with ceremonies, a minute of silence at 11am, and the wearing of red poppies as a symbol of remembrance.
The red poppy became associated with remembrance after it was featured in the famous war poem In Flanders Fields, which described the red flowers growing on the battlefields of Europe. Today, the poppy remains a powerful emblem for honouring those who have served.
Why It’s Important to Educate Children About History
Introducing young children to historical events like Remembrance Day plays a valuable role in their development. Although preschoolers may not understand the full historical context, teaching them about significant occasions helps foster empathy and a sense of respect for others. It also offers an early opportunity to instil values such as gratitude and kindness.
Educating children about history helps them:
- Develop Empathy: Learning about the sacrifices of others encourages children to consider the experiences and feelings of people from different backgrounds.
- Appreciate Cultural Heritage: Understanding historical events gives children a sense of connection to their community and country.
- Learn to Express Gratitude: Teaching children about the importance of remembrance helps them appreciate the acts of kindness and bravery shown by others.
How To Explain Remembrance Day to Preschoolers
When talking to preschoolers about Remembrance Day, it’s important to keep the language simple and focus on ideas they can relate to, such as peace and caring for others. Here are some strategies to make the discussion more accessible:
1. Use Simple Language
Preschoolers are still developing their vocabulary, so using clear and straightforward language is key. Rather than delving into complex historical details, keep explanations brief and use words that are familiar to children. For example:
- “Remembrance Day is a special day when we think about people who helped make our world a better place.”
- “We wear poppies to show we remember the people who have helped us.”
2. Focus on Key Concepts Like Peace and Gratitude
Children may find abstract concepts difficult to understand, so focus on themes that are easier for them to relate to:
- Peace: Explain that Remembrance Day is about hoping for a peaceful world where people are kind to one another.
- Gratitude: Emphasise the idea of saying “thank you” to people who helped keep us safe.
3. Relate to Their Everyday Life
Connect the themes of Remembrance Day to experiences children are familiar with. For example:
- Kindness: Discuss how saying thank you or helping a friend is similar to what we do on Remembrance Day – showing appreciation.
- Being Quiet: Explain that we take a moment of silence as a way to show respect, similar to how we might quietly think about something important.
Ideas for Engaging Preschoolers in Remembrance Day
Helping children connect with the significance of Remembrance Day can be achieved through interactive activities and discussions. Here are some ideas:
1. Read Age-Appropriate Books About Peace and Remembrance
Books can be a gentle introduction to themes associated with Remembrance Day. Look for picture books that talk about peace, kindness, or the importance of remembering special people. After reading, discuss the story with the child and ask what they thought about it.
2. Create a Red Poppy Craft Together
The red poppy is a well-known symbol of remembrance, and creating a poppy craft can help children connect with the day’s themes in a hands-on way. Simple crafts like paper poppies or poppy wreaths can be completed with basic materials and offer an opportunity to talk about why the poppy is important. See our full guide of activities for Remembrance Day here.
3. Observe a Moment of Quiet Reflection
Taking a brief moment of quiet time, even if only for 30 seconds, can introduce children to the idea of reflecting on important things. Explain that it is a time to think about people who help others or to wish for a world filled with peace.
Tips for Answering Preschoolers’ Questions About Remembrance Day
Preschoolers may have many questions about Remembrance Day, and it’s important to respond in a way that is honest but also appropriate for their age. Here are some tips for handling their questions:
- Be Honest, But Keep It Simple: If a child asks, “Why do people wear poppies?” a suitable response might be, “We wear them to remember people who helped keep us safe.” Avoid going into complex or distressing details.
- Focus on Positive Themes: When asked, “What is Remembrance Day for?” explain that it’s a day when people think about peace and say thank you to others.
- Acknowledge Their Feelings: If a child seems worried or confused, reassure them by saying, “It’s okay if you don’t understand everything right now. What’s important is that we’re thinking about being kind and thankful.”
Craft Ideas for Remembrance Day
Arts and crafts activities are an ideal way to introduce preschoolers to the significance of Remembrance Day. Focusing on simple projects, especially red poppy crafts, allows children to engage in a creative process that enhances their skills and understanding. Here are some hands-on craft ideas to try:
Poppy Crafts for Preschoolers
Creating poppies as part of Remembrance Day activities is a meaningful way for children to engage with the day. These simple craft ideas help preschoolers express their creativity and practise skills such as cutting, glueing, and painting.
- Paper Poppy Craft
- Use red construction or tissue paper to make poppy shapes. Help preschoolers cut out petal shapes and glue them together. A black button or small black circle can be added in the centre to complete the poppy.
- This craft is suitable for young children and helps develop fine motor skills while introducing them to the symbolism of the poppy.
- Painted Rock Poppies
- Find some smooth rocks, and provide red, black, and green paint. Preschoolers can paint red poppy designs on the rocks, which can then be placed in gardens or used as decorations.
- This activity encourages creativity while also allowing children to engage with nature.
- Egg Carton Poppy
- Use egg cartons to create poppy flowers. Cut out individual cups from the egg carton, paint them red, and add a black dot in the centre. Glue green pipe cleaners underneath to serve as the stems.
- This project is a great way to recycle materials while allowing children to practise different crafting techniques.
Making Poppies with Preschoolers
Crafting poppies can be a simple yet meaningful activity for Remembrance Day. Here are some straightforward projects that children can complete with minimal assistance:
- Simple Paper Poppy
- Materials: Red and black construction paper, glue, child-safe scissors.
- Instructions: Cut out a large red circle for the flower and a smaller black circle for the centre. Have preschoolers glue the black circle onto the red one to form a poppy. Add a green pipe cleaner or strip of paper for a stem.
- This craft is an ideal activity for young children to complete independently, promoting creativity and coordination.
- Poppy Wreath
- Materials: Red and black construction paper, a paper plate, glue, scissors.
- Instructions: Cut the centre out of the paper plate to create a circular frame. Help preschoolers cut out red paper poppies and glue them around the frame. Hang the wreath as a decoration.
- The wreath serves as a visual reminder of Remembrance Day and introduces children to the concept of commemorating special occasions.
Handprint Poppy Art
Handprint crafts are a popular choice for young children, providing a personalised touch to Remembrance Day activities. This project allows children to create a poppy using their handprints, turning their artwork into a keepsake.
- Materials: Red paint, green paint, paper, and a black marker.
- Instructions: Help children dip their hands in red paint and press their handprint onto a piece of paper to form the shape of a poppy. Once the paint is dry, add a black dot in the centre with a marker, and draw a green stem and leaves.
- This craft not only provides hands-on experience but also helps develop fine motor skills through painting and drawing.
Other Activities for Remembrance Day
In addition to poppy crafts, there are other ways to help preschoolers connect with the themes of Remembrance Day. These activities offer different approaches to learning and reflection:
- Storytelling Through Craft
- Incorporate a storytime element by reading a book about peace or kindness, and then have children create a related craft. This approach encourages deeper understanding and allows children to express their thoughts through art.
- Reflective Art
- Provide children with various art supplies and encourage them to create drawings or paintings that represent “peace” or “remembrance.” Discuss their artwork with them to help build emotional expression and communication skills.
- Quiet Time with Music
- Use music associated with Remembrance Day, such as “The Last Post,” during craft time to create a calm atmosphere. It can be a simple way to introduce children to the mood of the day and encourage quiet reflection.
How Arts and Crafts Activities Can Support Development
Arts and crafts activities not only engage children in the spirit of Remembrance Day but also contribute significantly to their development. Here’s how these activities help:
- Fine Motor Skills Development: Cutting, glueing, and painting help strengthen small hand muscles, improving coordination and preparing children for tasks such as writing.
- Creativity and Problem-Solving: Crafting encourages children to make choices, explore materials, and solve creative challenges, fostering independent thinking.
- Emotional Expression: Through arts and crafts, children can express feelings and ideas that may be difficult to verbalise, promoting emotional development.
Incorporating these activities into Remembrance Day offers preschoolers a well-rounded experience that combines creativity with important learning outcomes.
How Montessori Academy Incorporates Learning About Remembrance Day
At Montessori Academy, Remembrance Day is approached with sensitivity, ensuring that the activities and discussions are appropriate for young children. Educators use hands-on learning techniques, including crafts like making poppies and storytelling, to help children understand the themes of the day.
The Montessori approach prioritises creating a calm and respectful environment. Activities such as observing a short period of quiet reflection or listening to music associated with the day can help children connect with its meaning in a way that feels comfortable and engaging.
Learn More About Remembrance Day with Montessori Academy
Helping preschoolers understand Remembrance Day involves using simple language, relatable themes, and engaging activities that make the day’s significance accessible to them. By focusing on ideas such as peace, gratitude, and kindness, parents and educators can guide young children in developing a sense of empathy and appreciation.
At Montessori Academy, we are committed to supporting children’s learning in meaningful ways. Our approach to Remembrance Day includes hands-on activities and thoughtful discussions that help children connect with the day’s themes while fostering a love for learning. For more resources on how to talk to preschoolers about special occasions or to explore our educational programs, visit Montessori Academy’s blog or contact us.