On the Fourth of July, it's easy to get so caught up in the parades and fireworks you forget to focus on the significance of this important day. Here are some tips for enjoying quality time with family without forgetting the fundamentals!
1) Read a Book
There's nothing like immersing yourself in a good book to put you in the right mindset. Is patriotic literature scarce on your bookshelves at home? Head down to the library and check out a classic, like Johnny Tremain, to spark your child's fascination in America's early formation. Want to go deeper? Pick a founding father to explore. Read his biography and learn more about his personality, interests and accomplishments.
Short on ideas? Start with this list of bestsellers. 12 Star-Spangled, Spectacular Books for Kids
1) Watch a Documentary
Films offer an excellent way to revisit history in a memorable way. Start a new tradition of watching a classic film or documentary about our nation’s birth.
1) Visit a Landmark
Road trips are a fun and educational way to spend time with the fam. There are so many landmarks around this country where history has been made --- from Philadelphia to the Alamo, the redwoods to the grand canyon. Use Fourth of July as an excuse to watch a historical re-enactment or see a breathtaking view. Not fond of road trips? Do a little research and you're sure to find some historical treasures in your own hometown.
4) Make a Flag
The flag is a familiar symbol to children in America, but how many actually know the history? A crafty art or baking project gives the perfect hands-on opportunity to teach our flag's history, why it looks the way it does and the many transformations it's been through.
5) Look at Artifacts
Want to give kids some perspective of what the world looked like in Philadelphia when the Declaration of Independence was signed? Take them to a musuem to explore what people wore when our country was founded and the technology of the era. Don't forget plenty of art can be found on web archives, such as Mercury One’s collection of historical artifacts featured online.
What About You?
Do you have a favorite way to teach your kids about Independence Day? Share it with us in the comments section below.