Anzac Day is an important day on our Nations calendar, dedicated to remembering the service and sacrifices the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) made during World War I. It is a time to honour these servicemen and women as well as recognising those who have participated in any other war/peacekeeping operations.
The day can provide an opportunity to teach our kids about this significant time in history whilst also creating experiences and memories as a family.
This year we are very fortunate to be able to attend the standard ANZAC day services and marches however here are some ideas to expand on the way you can commemorate with your kids.
Visit a Local Anzac Memorial
If you are unable to attend a local March or Service consider taking the family to visit a war memorial. A great resource to find your closet memorial is Places of Pride, the National Register of War Memorials. Here you will find an easy to use interactive map that will help you find a local memorial to visit and pay your respects to our soldiers.
Anzac Day Crafts
Bottle Cap Poppy Painting
Create your own poppy field using a milk bottle cap, red, green and black paint. Display these proudly at home or take the time to deliver this beautiful to a grandparent or relative.
Image from danyabanya.com
DIY Poppy Wreath Wreath
Decorate your front door with a beautiful cupcake case wreath – created using cupcake cases, black paper and a paper plate. This simple craft activity would also be a beautiful tribute to leave at a local War Memorial.
Image from mamapapabubba.com
Make Some Poppies
Bake Anzac Biscuits
Read an ANZAC Story
There are plenty of amazing children’s books about ANZAC day so a great option would be to visit your local library and discover what books are suitable for your kids.
One great option for children 5+ is Lest We Forget by Kerry Brown. This number 1 bestselling picture book will help even the very young understand the significance of ANZAC Day.
Follow the illustrations to see the parallel stories of a young boy talking about the important days of his life whilst his grandfather shares his war experiences.
Image from booktopia.com.au
