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Fun Ways to Remember Independence Day
Author: Melissa Maypole
If you're like many Americans, the 4th of July has become more than an excuse to don yourself in our nation's colors, enjoy some ribs on the grill, and witness a spectacular fireworks show. Of course, there's nothing wrong with celebrating—as long as you know what it is that calls for a celebration. If you're planning a party or an outing this year, consider a moment (or more) of reflection to remember what it means to be free, and the men who died to ensure that we experience freedoms unheard of in other countries. If you're on board with the idea, here are a few unique ways to celebrate the true meaning of Independence Day with your family.
- Freedom Fireworks
Ideally, all firework shows on the 4th should be about freedom, but sometimes we get so caught up in the magnificence of the scene that we forget what it's all for. Make your family fireworks show especially meaningful this year by adding an element of appreciation to each celebratory lighting. Before you set off each firework, go around the circle and ask each member of your family or group to share a freedom they're thankful for. It can be simple or profound, as long as it's sincere. To make sure everyone gets to participate, you may need to plan ahead and help little ones prepare a list to share on the big night. - Patriotic Play
You don't need any special kits or instructions to make learning about our nation's history a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. With a little creativity and motivation, you can turn almost any traditional board game into a learning experience. For example, put a twist on the game of Scrabble by only allowing patriotic terms, or use Monopoly money to demonstrate how Great Britain kept imposing more and more rules while simultaneously taking away the rights of the colonists. If you want to take your patriotic play online, visit http://www.primarygames.com/holidays/july4/games.htm for some easy and fun Independence Day games. - Independence Day Crafts
Kids are always up for arts and crafts, and although red, white, and blue projects aren't a new concept, they take on new meaning when you use them as an opportunity to teach your child the meaning of freedom and why we celebrate Independence Day each year. Although just about any project will do, you can personalize the experience by making a Freedom Book in which your little one illustrates the freedoms he loves best, or for older kids, consider making a scrapbook of the important people and events that contributed to our nation's independence. For more options, check out Scholastic's craft ideas.
It's no surprise that history in and of itself has the potential to be a boring subject for kids and adults alike, so don't go overboard with long lists of dates and facts—at least, not at first. The best way to get kids interested in what the 4th of July is all about (or any other subject for that matter) is to make the information relevant and engaging. They'll be having so much fun; they won't even realize they're learning about one of the most important days in our nation's history.
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