This upcoming Tuesday is Remembrance Day. You probably already have a poppy and have encouraged your child to wear one as well. It is important to remember the veterans who have served their country and honour them with a moment of silence at 11 am on November 11th.
Talking to your children about the symbolism of wearing a poppy, why we observe Remembrance Day, and the reason we have a moment of silence is important in their understanding of the historical significance of the holiday.
The poppy is a symbol of Remembrance Day, as they grew on the fields where the battles of the First World War took place. The Royal Canadian Legion sells replica poppies every year to provide assistance to veterans. Wearing a poppy is a symbol of remembering our veterans, but it also helps them now.
The poppy is a symbol that you can use to explain the history of Remembrance Day with your children in an accessible way. You can supplement teaching children about the symbol of the poppy with reading them poems such as John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields and discussing its meaning.
This is an important day to discuss Canada’s history and Canada’s evolved role as a peacekeeping nation. Answering your children’s questions or helping them find answers in a book or online will help them build a respect for Remembrance Day. Help them honour and remember the men and women who have served Canada and continue to serve their country during war, conflict, and peace.
For more information about Remembrance Day, visit the Government of Canada’s website.
