VISIT AMERICA’S HISTORIC SITES
“Washington D.C. is ‘our city,’ and we need to make sure our kids get there when they are at the right age to absorb the enormity of the greatness of our nation,” says Joy Hall, mother of two. “I think the war memorials and the Smithsonian, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial and the Capitol building are all really awe-inspiring to kids.” Before her husband took their son to Washington D.C., “we had our son do some reading so he was better prepared to absorb what he saw and so he could feel proud of what he knew,” she says. Michelle Erickson says her sons learned a great deal during a family trip to Boston. “We saw the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s house and a reenactment of the Boston Tea Party,” she says. Erickson agrees that it’s helpful to read historical children’s books ahead of time so that the kids have a greater appreciation for what they’re seeing. “It’s important, on these visits, to talk about the sacrifices made by the first settlers to America,” she says.
TALK WITH A VETERAN
“My grandson’s school presents a patriotic program each year,” says Ellen Herron. Veterans and public- safety officers are invited, along with family and friends. “The students each write a ‘Dear Soldier’ letter, some of which are read during the program,” she adds. Other families report that a visit to a veterans’ hospital, whether as a family or as part of a school, Scouting or church group, was particularly meaningful for their family. Interviewing a veteran is a great way for kids to learn about our country’s history and to show appreciation for those who have sacrificed for our freedom. “Our kids enjoy talking to their grandpa and looking over anything he has that relates to when he was in World War II,” says Hall. She also suggests interviewing veterans to learn about their war-time experiences.
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SET AN EXAMPLE
Kids watch what we do, and our actions tell them what we value, says Hall. “We display a flag, we turn on the T.V. for inaugural events, and we watch State of the Union addresses and presidential funerals,” she adds. “We also write letters to enlisted men and women.” One of the most important things we can give our children is to pass on our own love for America, says Hall. “Nothing can replace the pride and tears they see in your eyes at certain times that are significant to our country.” Kathy Sena is a freelance writer specializing in parenting topics. Her 16-year-old son is looking forward to voting in just two short years after accompanying his mom to the polls many times as a little kid. Visit Kathy’s website at www.kathysena.com. MI CHILD SPECIAL SECTION |OCTOBER 2012
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