Veterans Day Activities
Veterans Day: The Poppy Lady Activities
IWith Veterans Day approaching, it’s the perfect time to bring a sense of gratitude and reflection into the classroom. For many students, this may be their first introduction to Veterans Day, making it an opportunity to explore the holiday’s significance and honor those who’ve served. Here are three engaging ways to help students understand and appreciate this special day.
1. Start with a Story: Read The Poppy Lady
One of the most effective ways to introduce students to Veterans Day is through storytelling. The Poppy Lady by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh is a powerful choice, telling the story of Moina Belle Michael, a teacher who dedicated herself to honoring soldiers during World War I by establishing the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Moina’s story resonates with students, especially as they see how one person can make a difference.
How to Make It Interactive:
• Begin with a KWL Chart: Before reading, have students share what they already know about Veterans Day and what they’d like to learn. This can lead to insightful discussions and helps gauge their understanding.
• Reflective Questions: After reading, guide students with questions about Moina’s contributions and why symbols like the red poppy are meaningful.
• Follow-Up Activity: Introduce a writing prompt where students express how they can honor veterans in their own way. This reinforces the story’s message and allows them to connect personally with the theme.
2. . Hands-On Activities to Deepen Understanding
A powerful way to reinforce learning is through hands-on activities. The Poppy Lady Veterans Day Activity Pack provides a range of activities that can be easily integrated into your lesson plan, either as individual tasks or a full lesson unit. These activities allow students to process the holiday’s importance through various formats and expressions.
What’s Included in the Activity Pack:
• Writing Prompts & Discussion Questions: These prompts guide students to reflect on the meaning of Veterans Day and to think critically about service and sacrifice.
• Articles and Reading Passages: Provide students with age-appropriate readings that explore the history of Veterans Day and the significance of honoring our heroes.
• Interview a Veteran: If possible, invite a local veteran to the classroom (in-person or virtually). Use the interview worksheet to prepare thoughtful questions, fostering respect and curiosity.
• Letter to a Veteran: Give students the chance to write thank-you letters to veterans, expressing their gratitude and newfound understanding.
• Veterans Day Flipbook: This is a fun, interactive way for students to summarize their learning and take home as a keepsake.
Each activity is thoughtfully designed to engage students while respecting the significance of the holiday.
3. Classroom Discussions and Morning Meetings
Veterans Day provides an opportunity for meaningful discussions, especially during morning meetings or dedicated class time. These discussions can help students connect their own lives to the values of service, gratitude, and remembrance.
Ideas for Meaningful Discussions:
• Personal Connections: Encourage students to share if they know a family member or friend who has served in the military. This often brings a personal perspective to the holiday, making it more relatable for young learners.
• Why Veterans Day Matters: Explain the origins of Veterans Day and discuss why it’s important to honor those who serve. This conversation can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the holiday.
• Classroom Reflection: Close the lesson by asking students to share what they’ve learned or one thing they’re grateful for. These moments of reflection help solidify their learning and make the experience memorable.
Bringing It All Together
Veterans Day offers a chance to teach students about respect, gratitude, and the power of remembrance. By combining storytelling, hands-on activities, and thoughtful discussions, you can help students grasp the holiday’s significance in a way that’s meaningful and age-appropriate.
* ThisReady to Start? Grab the Veterans Day Activity Pack!
If you’re looking for a resource to simplify planning, the Poppy Lady Veterans Day Activity Pack includes all the activities mentioned above, designed for easy integration into your classroom. With this pack, you’ll have everything you need to guide students in honoring veterans meaningfully.
Get the Poppy Lady Veterans Day Activity Pack
For additional ideas and resources, explore my blog on 3 Ways to Honor Veterans in the Classroom—a guide full of ideas to make this Veterans Day unforgettable for your students.
Let’s teach our students the importance of gratitude and remembrance this Veterans Day!
I sure hope you try out these Veterans Day activities I created in your classroom this year! If you don't want to miss out on upcoming classroom ideas, make sure to follow me on Instagram!
XO,
