Patriotic Kids

Patriotic Kids – 10 Top Tips For Teaching Kids Patriotism

We teach our children many things but what about patriotism? Having patriotic kids takes education. There are many opportunities during the year to teach children about our great country and holidays such as Independence Day (The Fourth of July), Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, Flag Day, President’s Day (Washington and Lincoln are the two most celebrated), Consitution Day, Election Day, Bill of Rights Day and
Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Now more than ever it is time to be united. There are many people who are angry about things people say in the name of politics and many of these people (on either side) really don’t care about anything but getting elected, or getting votes. Even so, we should not allow this anger to seep into our conversation especially with our children.

Our country is going through a tough time and we are politically divided. Many people have become discouraged, some even threaten to leave our county! Now more than ever we should unite and remember all the things that America stands for and what our great country has to offer. We should be proud because of our heritage.

We have holidays and remembrances that center around patriotism and these are times when we can celebrate. However, a celebration comes after understanding. Without an understanding of history, people will make the same mistakes again, and again. Without a divided nation it will fall and be ripe for others to come in and sow discontent and wait for a time of weakness.

“We will stand by the right, we will stand by the true,

we will live, we will die for the red, white, and blue.” Anonymous

Feeling united about a common cause is patriotic and our children can enjoy them even better if we focus on some key points. It is important to make sure your children have a good understanding.

Here are my top 10 topics that you should teach your children on patriotism.

Patriotism begins by understanding our nation’s history, how did we gain our independence?
Teach about our government. There are three branches, do they know what each does?
Know about our basic freedoms. Our nation’s accomplishments are found first in the US Constitution. Read it! The Bill of Rights explains our rights as Americans, study these. We have freedom of religion, of speech and to bear arms.
Teach our children what it means to be a good citizen. (Follow the laws, take part in voting during the elections)
Honor our military. Many brave men and women have died to protect our country. Study the wars and the reasons behind them.
Learn patriotic songs such as the Star Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful.
Learn patriotic quotes such as, “We will stand by the right, we will stand by the true, we will live, we will die for the red, white, and blue.” Anonymous (More patriotic quotes here.)
Teach your children the Pledge of Allegiance. (After our prayers we said this every day before we began our homeschool day.)
Teach your children the proper way to fly the American Flag and what to do when the National Anthem is played (face the flag with your hand over your heart).
Celebrate Patriotic holidays and explain the “why” behind the holiday.

We can also teach our children to be loving and accepting. While we do not have to agree with everyone we can disagree in a kind manner. This is so important. We can not accept those who are bullies or try to quiet our voices with tyranny. We must stand for our beliefs yet do it in a manner that is pleasing to God. Yes, people are different and yet we can stand firm in our beliefs while still praying for others.

America is the land of the free. America is a place of opportunity. America is my home and where the people I love, live. Americans be proud, be patriotic, and teach your children well.