Like everything else in 2020, the gathering for Remembrance Day this year will look a little different. Our ceremony here in Shawville will still take place at the cenotaph, however, it will be smaller and COVID safety will be in place. If you’re not able to get out and participate in this ceremony, there are . . .
still other ways to ensure you and your children remember on Remembrance Day.
Poppies are out. Start by proudly supporting our past and present troops by purchasing a poppy to wear for the next few weeks. The Parents’ Voice has put out a post on social media to encourage families to proudly display a poppy in their home windows. If you do participate in this challenge please post a picture of your poppy on our Facebook page. How else can we ensure talking about Remembrance Day with our children and families? Here are some ideas.
1. Wear a poppy. Explain why we are wearing poppies – to remember all those who fought for our country and continue to fight for our freedom.
2. Visit a war memorial site. In COVID times we are all trying to stay close to home, we can easily visit our cenotaph. If we haven’t introduced this to our children yet, let now be the time.
3. Send a thank you letter. You and your child can work together to send a thank you note to a veteran. Doing this activity together can bring on a lot of questions and discussion which is exactly what we want our children to be aware of. Of course, the conversation should be age appropriate so as not to upset or terrify little ones, but as my kids get older I feel its important they understand the sacrifices our veterans have and continue to give for us.
4. Look at old family photos or memorabilia you may have in your family. I often remember my great uncle and the war stories he shared with me when he was alive, but at this time of year it reminds me even more of the difficulties he encountered and the bravery he showed us all.
5. Read. There are some great go to stories about remembering. Most can be found on YouTube as a read aloud if you can’t find the hard copy book. Here are some titles; A poppy is to remember, In Flander’s Field, The Enemy, Blowing in the wind, Where poppies grow, The Peace Book (for really little ones is great also).
6. Moment of silence; wherever you are, stop and remember on November 11 a.m. Teach your children this, not all schools stop to remember on this day and at this time.
7. If you’re ever looking to visit a museum in the future, check out the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. So interesting reading about our country and past wars.
8. Make a poppy. There are millions of poppy ideas available on line, choose something that is age appropriate for your child and get to work on making a poppy to remember. While you are being artistic great conversation can also be shared.
However you choose to commemorate Remembrance Day this year, take a minute to sit back and reflect on our past, present and future. Don’t forget to thank a veteran or member of the armed forces.
