Remembrance Day is marked in Canada every year on 11 November. It is a day of national commemoration for the more than 118,000 Canadians who have died in military service
We also honour veterans who have served to protect our country as well as current members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Ways to talk learn more about Remembrance Day
Emphasize on honouring people
Spend some time discussing the dedication and sacrifice that these people have made to ensure that we have continued freedom and safety today. It's a great way to also find ways to honour these important people in our history. Here some ideas you could try:
Donating to a local Legion.
Flying a Canadian flag.
Wearing a poppy.
Talk to a veteran.
Write a letter to a veteran.
Create 'poppy' art and display in school or your home
Read books or recite poems regarding Canadian history /Remembrance Day
Learn with Remembrance Day activities to honour and learn about armed forces and veterans
Explain the significance of Poppies
Why do we wear poppies? An interesting fact is that not even all adults know why we wear poppies each November. Teach your children about how wearing a poppy is a way to pay tribute to all those who gave their lives for our freedom. Poppies grew on the battlefields where many gave their lives. A neat fact to remember is that in 1915 the poppy flower inspired a Canadian doctor by the name of John McCrae to write the very famous poem ‘In Flanders Fields’.
Attend a Remembrance Day Ceremony
Attending a Remembrance Day Ceremony, whether in person or virtually, is an excellent way to teach your kids about Remembrance Day. Find out if there are local events, legions, venues or memorial parks having an in-person Remembrance Day Ceremony, or if they offer a virtual option.
Visit The Canadian War Museum
Even if you are unable to visit a museum due to covid, you can still visit The Canadian War Museum website. There are so many amazing videos, resources and more. Additionally there are so many truly unique exhibitions and experiences to be seen.
Here you will find stories, experiences and photos of Women in the Military , Asian-Canadians, Black-Canadians and Indigenous Peoples whom all have taken part in war and fought for our freedoms.
Dive into your families own history
A really excellent way to teach your children about Remembrance Day is to share stories with them about their own family members that were in the war. Share with them all that you know about their stories. It's a great way to educate , share their experiences and understand.
