From Bright Horizons:

Memorial Day and Children: More than a Day Off

Memorial Day is one of those of those holidays that has lost its meaning for many of us. It has become a three-day weekend and a day of sales and shopping, sporting events, and family picnics. Perhaps as is true of the other national holidays where stores stay open, commerce trumps reflection. Or maybe it is the distance in time from a popular war like World War II. In any event, most of us don’t take the time to make the day meaningful for children.

Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who died in military service for their country. It was established to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War and was later expanded to include all those who died in service to their country. For some, Memorial Day is an occasion to honor family members who have died.

Why honor the original intent of Memorial Day and celebrate with children? Because children are part of America and grow up to be citizens. They are also members of families that go back generations. And, Memorial Day is an educational opportunity.

Whatever our politics and beliefs about war in general or particular wars, Memorial Day is a time to talk to our children about service, war, sacrifice, loss, memories, and family. Car racing, baseball, golf, burgers and hot dogs on the grill, and sales at the mall are fun, but they don’t have to entirely eclipse the true meaning of the holiday. There's still time to help children discuss and understand larger issues and learn more about family members who have served in the military or simply lived before them and passed away. Even young children can look over old pictures and talk about deceased relatives who passed away recently or long ago.

Helping Children Honor and Support Those in the Armed Services

If you wish to help children make connections to those serving in the military today, the following websites are good resources:

Care packages: United Service Organization http://www.usocares.org/
Cash and supplies: American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services http://www.redcross.org/donate/donate.html
General e-mails and thank-you notes http://www.operationdearabby.net
Individual pen pal letters: http://www.operationsoldiersupport.org
http://adoptaplatoon.org/new/