Commemorating Remembrance Day with Young Children

Remembrance Day, observed on 11 November, honours those who served and sacrificed in war and peacekeeping efforts. While the concept of war may be too complex for toddlers and preschoolers, educators and families can introduce the day through gentle, symbolic, and emotionally resonant experiences.

Key Approaches:

Use simple language to explain themes like peace, kindness, and gratitude.
Focus on emotional literacy rather than historical detail—help children understand feelings like empathy and respect.
Avoid graphic or violent imagery, instead centering on hope, remembrance, and connection.

Meaningful Activities

Group Time Activities

Peace Circle

Light a candle or place a symbolic poppy in the centre.
Invite children to share what kindness means to them.
Use phrases like “We remember with love” or “We care for others.”

Gentle Storytime

Read stories about helpers, community, or caring (e.g., Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge).
Use puppets or felt boards to retell stories with emotional warmth.

Music & Movement

Sing calming songs like “Peace Like a River” or “I Am Special”.
Use scarves or ribbons to move gently in a “peace parade.”

Sensory Play Ideas

Poppy Petal Tray

Red and black playdough with poppy cutters or loose parts (buttons, felt, petals).
Invite children to “plant” poppies in sand or soil trays.

Peace Potion Station

Water play with calming scents (lavender, rose), flower petals, and scoops.
Children mix “peace potions” to share with friends or place near a symbolic candle.

Thread of Kindness

Use yarn, beads, or fabric scraps to create “kindness bracelets” or “peace chains.”
Each child adds a piece while naming something kind they’ve done or felt.

Creative & Symbolic Crafts

Fingerprint Poppies: Red fingerprints around a black centre on paper.
Peace Doves: Trace hands to form wings, decorate with calming colours.
Remembrance Garden: Collaborative mural with flowers, hearts, and messages of care.

Emotional Intelligence in Practice:

Encourage children to express what peace means to them.
Use reflective prompts like “How can we show kindness today?” or “What does remembering feel like?”
Honour children’s voices and interpretations—there’s no one “right” way to commemorate.