How do you communicate and teach young children about Memorial Day?

2022-05-26T21:58:23-04:00

I have a 3 year old and I’m wondering what if anything we can do to start to instill the concept of Memorial Day into their young mind.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2022 10:26 PM

2022-05-26T22:26:45-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden Telling them about the differences between Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day is a start. Taking children to Memorial Day events will instill the importance of these observances.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2022 7:29 AM

2022-05-27T07:29:32-04:00

Take them to a cemetery and care for some veteran's graves.
https://www.military.com/holidays/memorial-day/how-decoration-day-became-memorial-day.html

How 'Decoration Day' Became Memorial Day

In the 100 years following the Civil War, the day used to recognize the Union veterans evolved a lot.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made May 27 at 2022 10:49 AM

2022-05-27T10:49:27-04:00

Keep it simple. They most likely have a concept of what a solider is. Just tell them it's the day we remember those Soldiers who passed away. Once they get older you can fill in the gaps as needed but don't get too deep or you will overwhelm them or just go over their head.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jun 1 at 2022 2:35 AM

2022-06-01T02:35:10-04:00

I started by showing photos of family members that served in the military. We then began to instill in them that some have to give the ultimate sacrifice. we then took a trip to Arlington