"When we honor our flag we honor what we stand for as a Nation --
freedom, equality, justice, and hope." ~Ronald Reagan
Americans celebrate Flag Day on June 14th to commemorate the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777.
Here are some good ways to teach our children the history and meaning of the flag and to help them appreciate our precious heritage.
Choose a few ideas below for your family to enjoy. Invite friends to join you if you'd like, and create happy, meaningful memories together.
* Display the flag. Talk about what it represents, what it means to you, and any family flag
traditions you may want to create.
* Say the Pledge of Allegiance and discuss what it means. (Try saying it in sign language.)
* Learn about the history of the flag.
* Learn the history of Flag Day.
* Read the 2016 Presidential Proclamation for Flag Day and National Flag Week
* Learn flag etiquette, how to fold the flag, and why it's significant.
* Read books with your family that help you "appreciate our flag and the sacrifices it has
motivated." This inspiring article has some helpful suggestions for adults and older children.
* Learn about and sing our national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner."
* Sing or listen to patriotic songs. Great songs about our flag include:
- The Star Spangled Banner.
- You’re a Grand Old Flag
- There are Many Flags
- When the Flag Goes By
- Take Your Hat Off When the Flag Goes By
* Make patriotic crafts. Here are more ideas. You could use them as part of a family parade with
young children, or to decorate for the 4th of July.
* Serve patriotic treats (or keep it simple with watermelon or root beer floats) and have fun.