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Happy Birthday George Washington!

2/22/2015

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February 22nd is the birthday of George Washington, the father of our country and a man many believe to be one of the greatest leaders America has ever had.

This is a wonderful time to spend quality time teaching our children about President Washington. 

Understanding the character of Washington and how he grew into the challenges he faced can help us, and our children, rise to the difficult challenges of our day.  

President Washington can become our hero and friend as we study his life and try to follow his example.

Here are a few helpful resources.

 
Books about George Washington
  • The Real George Washington by Parry, Allison, and Skousen
  • George Washington's Sacred Fire by Peter A. Lillback
  • Founding Fathers Uncommon Heroes  by Steven W. Allen
  • 1776 by David McCullough
  • Being George Washington by Glenn Beck

Free Resources, Activities, and Ideas

1)  Learn about Washington.  
  • Look at a timeline of his life.  
  • Read a short biography for children.  
  • Invite family members to tell a story or give a report about what made Washington great. 

Watch historical videos about President Washington's life.  (These last about 12 minutes each.)      
     George Washington - Part 1: The Early Years      
     George Washington - Part 2: The Military Commander      
     George Washington - Part 3: Guiding the New Nation

Listen to David McCullough telling about Washington and the early patriots.

Watch as Arnold Friberg shows how he painted the masterpiece "The Prayer at Valley Forge and tells what he learned about General Washington.

2)  As a young man, George Washington worked as a surveyor and map maker.  This experience helped him when he was a general fighting in unfamiliar territory.  If you have young children, you might want to teach them some simple map skills.  Or you could talk about the importance of learning geography and sing "Fifty Nifty United States."  

You could also discuss how the talents and skills we learn as young people can help prepare us for our life's work.  The Mapmaker of Mount Vernon explains how important Washington's experiences as a surveyor were to his success.

3)  Washington's work required that he be an excellent horseman.  If you have access to horses, it might be fun to go horseback riding and talk about the importance of the animals in our life. 
 
4)  You could tell the story about how General Washington and his men crossed the Delaware River, and take your family on a boat ride.  

Or you could watch this video about what it was like to cross the icy Delaware river at night in a snow storm when many soldiers lacked coats, and even shoes.  Discuss the great sacrifices George Washington and his men made.  Talk about the sacrifices we can make today.

5)  Washington was a competent marksman and a courageous leader.  You could have a friendly target shooting activity with whatever toys you might have.  Over the years we've used toy guns, BB guns, squirt guns, slingshots, bows and arrows, darts, horseshoes, balls of all shapes and sizes, etc.  (Be sure to talk about any safety rules that apply.)

You could tell the story of when George Washington was colonel of the Virginia Militia and fought in the French and Indian War.  After one battle was over, it was discovered he had four bullet holes in his jacket.  He later gratefully acknowledged: "By the all powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation."  You could talk about times when you felt God  has blessed, protected, or prepared you.

6)  George Washington was a gentleman farmer.  He loved his home life at Mount Vernon and he enjoyed cultivating the land.  You could take a virtual tour of Mount Vernon.  Or you could plant an indoor herb garden or prepare a small outdoor garden.

7)  George Washington experienced sorrow and adversity in his early years that prepared him for later challenges.  For example, when Washington was 19, he went with his brother Lawrence to the island of Barbados to help Lawrence recover from a serious case of tuberculosis.  While there, George became very ill with smallpox.  It must have been a trial at the time, and left George with unsightly scars on his face.  But later, when he was general of the colonial army, George and his men were exposed to smallpox.  Many became very sick and were unable to perform their duties.  Due to his prior exposure, George was immune and able to carry out his heavy responsibilities.

Challenges helped to strengthen Washington's faith, develop his virtuous character, and increase his capacity to endure the indescribable hardships he and his men suffered during the Revolutionary War. Telling stories about George Washington's trials could be an opportunity to discuss any difficult experiences your family may have had, and to talk about how adversity can plant the seeds of later opportunities and blessings.

8)  Explain to your children that George Washington was not always a great leader.  He was once a kid, not too different from other kids.  But he prepared himself, did his best when he was faced with new challenges and opportunities, and relied on God to help him.  Remind your children that they can prepare themselves, do their best, and rely on God too.

Have fun!  I hope the friendship you cultivate with this wonderful patriot and hero lasts a lifetime!



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Happy Presidents Day!

2/16/2015

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Happy Presidents Day!  Although the official name of the federal holiday we are celebrating today is Washington's Birthday, a number of state and local governments (and businesses) call it Presidents Day.

As Patriotic Moms will celebrate Washington's Birthday on February 22 (the date George Washington was born), today is a good time to share some great videos about our other presidents.

These one minute videos are packed with helpful information about the leaders who have helped shape America. You could learn a little about all of the presidents in an hour.  Or, you could select a few of your favorites.  

If you don't have time to watch the videos now, you can always find them (and other excellent resources) under the TEACH tab on the main menu bar above. 


Presidential Minute

  1. George Washington
  2. John Adams
  3. Thomas Jefferson
  4. James Madison
  5. James Monroe
  6. John Quincy Adams
  7. Andrew Jackson
  8. Martin VanBuren
  9. William Henry Harrison
  10. John Tyler
  11. James Polk
  12. Zachary Taylor
  13. Millard Fillmore
  14. Franklin Pierce
  15. James Buchanan
  16. Abraham Lincoln
  17. Andrew Johnson
  18. Ulysses S. Grant
  19. Rutherford B. Hayes
  20. James Garfield
  21. Chester Arthur
  22. Grover Cleveland
  23. Benjamin Harrison
  24. William McKinley
  25. Theodore Roosevelt
  26. William Howard Taft
  27. Woodrow Wilson
  28. Warren G. Harding
  29. Calvin Coolidge
  30. Herbert Hoover
  31. Franklin Roosevelt
  32. Harry S. Truman
  33. Dwight D. Eisenhower
  34. John F. Kennedy
  35. Lyndon Johnson
  36. Richard Nixon
  37. Gerald Ford
  38. Jimmy Carter
  39. Ronald Reagan
  40. George H.W. Bush
  41. Bill Clinton
  42. George W. Bush
  43. Barack Obama

Learn More: Singing the Presidents of the United States


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Happy Birthday Abraham Lincoln

2/12/2015

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Lincoln Public Domain Image

Birthdays of heroic leaders give us powerful opportunities to introduce our children to some of the wonderful men and women who helped make America great.

February 12th is Abraham Lincoln’s birthday.  

When he was born, there was nothing to distinguish him from other babies.  

As a young boy he enjoyed walking, running, wrestling, reading, and doing math.   

Rising from the humblest of beginnings, he was elected President of the United States at a time of great national turmoil and division.  His leadership was a key factor in the eventual unity and restoration that took place.   He was a man with a mission, and that made all the difference.




Abraham Lincoln’s Life
  • Timeline of Lincoln’s Life
  • Young Abe Lincoln
  • The Story of Abraham Lincoln
  • Abraham Lincoln’s Autobiography 
  • Lincoln and Depression
  • Photos of Abraham Lincoln
  • Quotations of Abraham Lincoln

Stories
  • Lincoln and the Little Girl
  • Training for the Presidency
  • Honest Abe
  • The Wisdom of Solomon
  • George Pickett's Friend
  • Lincoln the Lawyer
  • Mr. Lincoln and the Bible
  • The Springfield Farewell Address

The Civil War
  • America and the Civil War  (4:04)
  • Civil War Turning Point  (3:08) 
  • The Emancipation Proclamation 

Speeches
  • First Inaugural Address
  • The Gettysburg Address
  • “House Divided” Speech
  • Second Inaugural Address
  • Lincoln's Most Important Speech  (3:02)

Proclamations
  • Proclamation of a Day of Fasting
  • Emancipation Proclamation
  • Proclamation of Thanksgiving


Possible Activities to Enjoy on President Lincoln's Birthday
(Choose the activity, or activities, that you think could be fun and meaningful for your family.)

  • Young Abe enjoyed wrestling, walking, running, and an early form of baseball.  Spend some time enjoying one of these, or another sports activity your family enjoys.  Talk about the importance of wholesome recreation.

  • Abe loved cats.  He adopted orphaned kittens, and enjoyed playing with them.  He also enjoyed dogs and horses, and his family had two goats when they lived in the White House.  You could spend some time enjoying your family pet(s), get a kitten for your family, spend some time with horses, or visit a local pet store. 

  • Abraham Lincoln loved collecting and telling jokes and stories.  Each family member could find one or more  stories or jokes to share with each other.

  • Abe's favorite hobby was to read and learn..  Have a family read-a-thon complete with fun snacks and soft pillows to relax on.  Abe loved to read so much that he sometimes borrowed books from others.  You could go to the library and "borrow" some fun books to read -- maybe something about Lincoln -- or read some of the stories above.  

  • Abes favorite foods were fruit salad, cheese, and crackers.  You could enjoy these for a fun snack while you participate in your activities.

  • Abraham Lincoln had more than his share of  struggles and failures.  You could watch "Famous Failures" and talk about how our failures can help teach us what we need to know to succeed.  Or you could tell a couple of experiences Lincoln had when he struggled with depression, and discuss how our struggles can help us grow.

  • When he was president, Abraham Lincoln wrote a number of speeches and addresses that expressed his feelings.  You could memorize or recite one of his speeches, like The Gettysburg Address, or The Emancipation Proclamation, or you could write something that expresses your feelings about America.

  • One of the great accomplishments of Abraham Lincoln's life was helping to bring freedom to the slaves.  You could watch this short video and talk about why that was so important.

  • As an adult, President Lincoln enjoyed going to plays.  You could go to a play together, or enjoy a modern day variation -- go to a movie, or watch a good video at home.  You could include this one minute summary of President Lincoln's life.

  • Abe enjoyed people and loved to visit with friends and neighbors.  You could visit some friends or invite them to join you for some activities in your home.  You could even bake a birthday cake and have a birthday party for Abraham Lincoln where you tell a little about him (see above), enjoy a few activities, sing Happy Birthday, and have cake and ice cream.


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Celebrating the Life of President Ronald Reagan

2/6/2015

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Ronald Wilson Reagan was born 104 years ago on February 6, 1911.  On that day few, if any, would have guessed he would grow up to become one of America's greatest presidents. 

But President Ronald Reagan's faith in God, his belief in the goodness of the American people, and his confidence in the future changed the course of history.

We face many challenges today, but they are not new. Reagan experienced similar challenges and overcame them with faith, determination, optimism, and hard work.

May we honor President Reagan and the great legacy of liberty he left us by working to restore the conservative principles he championed!

Here are some favorite stories and videos about Reagan.  They are full of valuable lessons from the life of one of America’s best and most beloved leaders.  


Ronald Reagan’s Childhood

Happy Birthday Ronald Reagan!
Over 100 years ago today, an ordinary baby was born (if any baby can be called ordinary).   His parents named him Ronald Wilson Reagan.  He was born in a simple home, to an obscure mother and an alcoholic father.  

Learning About Ronald Reagan's Childhood (4:26) 
President Reagan grew up with all the challenges that can come with having an alcoholic father -- financial hardship, emotional turmoil, unpredictable home life, and moving from town to town.  Yet he became one of America’s most revered leaders.  

 
Reagan’s Family 

Insights Into a Legendary Love  (8:32)
This heart-warming interview is full of insights into one of the great romances of modern America. Nancy's words of wisdom are valuable for any couple trying to build a happy and lasting marriage. 

Michael Reagan Remembers His Father
In this beautiful eulogy, Michael Reagan tells us what it's like to be the son of Ronald Reagan.

President Reagan Teaches His Daughter
Patti Reagan shares how her Dad took time to kindly and patiently teach her about death.  In so doing he also shared his great faith in God and his love for life. 

Ron Reagan Remembers His Father
It appears that President Reagan governed his family in much the same way he governed America.  What a great example for all of us! 


Faith and Prayer

Ronald Reagan - Man of Faith  (4:48)
This video was made to show President Ronald Reagan's sincere faith and that,  even while he held the highest office in the land, he stayed true to his deeply held beliefs. 

The Importance of Religion in America  (15:17)
"Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports. 

Ronald Reagan on America's Heritage of Faith  (25:00)
President Reagan’s remarks reflect his deep faith, his belief in family values, his extensive knowledge of American history and heritage, and his hope for America’s future.

President Reagan Talks About Prayer  (2:07)
Prayer guides us in our daily life and strengthens us in times of trial.


Freedom

We the People...  (1:38)
In less that 2 minutes, President Reagan sums up the basis of our liberty. Ours was the first revolution in the history of mankind that truly reversed the course of government, and with three little words: 'We the People.'

Renewing America  (3:32)
"If we look to the answer as to why for so many years we achieved so much, prospered as no other people on Earth, it was because here in this land we unleashed the energy and individual genius of man to a greater extent than has ever been done before."  This is 31/2 inspiring minutes from  President Reagan’s first inaugural address.

Liberty vs. Tyranny  (2:18)
"Freedom has never been so fragile, so close to slipping from our grasp as it is at this moment....I think it’s time we ask ourselves if we still know the freedoms that were intended for us by the Founding Fathers." 

Ronald Reagan on Socialized Medicine  (5:04)
President Reagan's advice on socialized medicine is perhaps even more relevant today than when he gave it.  We need to stop government encroachment on our liberty! 

President Reagan Remembers D-Day  (13:22)
We're here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty. For 4 long years, much of Europe had been under a terrible shadow. Here in Normandy the rescue began.

The Speech at the Berlin Wall Changed the Course of History (3:45, 4:53)
We need to tell our children the story of this speech and to teach them that sometimes it takes courage to stand alone.  Sometimes it's hard to do the right thing.  But nothing is more important.  

A Time for Choosing  (3:44, 29:33)
Ronald Reagan warns Americans that we are at the crossroads between two radically different visions of America and encourages us to defend our God-given rights and freedoms.

 
Tributes to President Reagan

Celebrating President Ronald Reagan's Legacy  (2:04)
We face many challenges as a nation today, but as we celebrate the life of Ronald Reagan, it is important to note that these are not new challenges. Reagan faced similar problems, but believed that it could be "morning in America."

Ronald Reagan, Great Person and Communicator  (several short videos)
We live in a time of divisiveness and strife.  Sometimes the differences of opinion in America appear too big to bridge.  Reagan lived in such a time.  His ideas were met with derision and scorn, yet, in just a few years,  people were praising him and calling him “the great communicator.”

Maggie and Ronnie  (10:20)
Former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher recorded a special message about her dear friend "Ronnie" for his funeral.  

Tribute to Ronald Reagan  (9:55)
"Tribute to Ronald Reagan," was produced for the Ronald Reagan Award Gala in 2006.

RNC Tribute to President Reagan  (3:42) 
President Reagan appealed to our hopes, not our fears, and our confidence rather than our doubts.

Hillsdale's Young Americans for Freedom Celebrate the Legacy of President Reagan (3:23)
This video tells what President Reagan’s legacy means to young people today.   What a wonderful tribute to a great president put together by Hillsdale College’s YAF.


Holidays and Days of Remembrance

What July Fourth Means to Me
By: Ronald Reagan     From: Parade Magazine

Ronald Reagan Talks about Thanksgiving  (1:24)
Thank God for the bounty and goodness of our nation. And as a measure of our gratitude, let us rededicate ourselves to the preservation of this, the land of the free, and the home of the brave. 

President Reagan's Inspiring Christmas Message  (3:27)
In a world of Christmas culture wars and political correctness, President Reagan's national Christmas address is absolutely refreshing!  What a blessing his example continues to be! 

President Reagan's Remarks at a Memorial Service Following the Challenger Disaster
Reagan delivered these remarks at a memorial service for the Challenger  astronauts. 


Below is a beautiful and tender tribute to Ronald Reagan...





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