Remembrance Day, on November 11th, is a solemn occasion to commemorate the sacrifices made by servicemen and women during times of conflict. Discussing this important day in a primary school setting offers a valuable opportunity to impart lessons of respect, gratitude, and empathy to young minds. In this blog post, we will explore how to approach Remembrance Day discussions in primary schools, including guidance for supply teachers who may be introducing this topic to a new classroom.
1. Age-Appropriate Explanation
When discussing Remembrance Day with young children, it's essential to provide a straightforward, age-appropriate explanation. Begin by explaining that Remembrance Day is a time when people remember and honour those who fought in wars. You can use simple language and visuals like poppies to help convey the message.
2. The Symbolism of the Poppy
The red poppy flower is a universal symbol of Remembrance Day. Teach primary school children about the significance of the poppy. You can explain that the red colour represents the bloodshed during wars, and the poppy's resilient growth in war-torn fields symbolizes hope and new life. Encourage students to create their paper poppies as a hands-on activity.
3. Stories and Personal Connections
Engage students by sharing age-appropriate stories about real-life heroes and heroines from history. These stories should highlight values like bravery, selflessness, and sacrifice. Invite students to share if they have any personal connections to family members who served in the military.
4. Minute Silence
Observe a moment of silence during your Remembrance Day discussion. Explain the importance of this quiet time to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers. You can use a visual timer to help young children understand the concept of a moment.
5. Artistic Expression
Encourage creativity by incorporating art into your Remembrance Day lesson. Children can create drawings, paintings, or craft projects related to the theme of Remembrance Day. This hands-on approach helps reinforce the concepts and feelings associated with the day.
6. Songs and Poems
Teach children Remembrance Day songs and poems. These can be powerful tools for conveying the emotions and messages associated with the day. Songs like "In Flanders Fields" and poems like "The Poppy" are excellent choices.
7. Discuss Peace
Remind students that while Remembrance Day is about honouring the past, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of peace. Encourage discussions about how we can contribute to creating a more peaceful world through kindness and understanding.
Remembrance Day for Supply Educators
As a supply teacher introducing Remembrance Day in a new classroom, it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity. Here are some tips:
Research the School's Traditions:
Familiarise yourself with the school's Remembrance Day traditions and expectations for the day.
Questions to ask:
- What are your school’s traditions for commemorating Remembrance Sunday?
- Does this day effect any children in the class? (Children may have a family member in the Armed Forces, Navy, Airforce, ect.)
- Will there be an assembly?
- Does the class need to prepare anything? For example: Poems, poppies, songs.
- Will there be a minute silence?
Remember:
Some religious schools may go to church.
Some schools have the tradition of visiting a local cenotaph.
*It is always best practice to align with a school’s ethos and traditions. If you have a prebooking, call ahead to find out.*
Ask for Guidance:
Seek guidance from the regular classroom teachers or school staff about how they typically discuss Remembrance Day with their pupils.
Be Inclusive:
Be mindful of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the students. Remembrance Day may have different meanings for different families, so approach the topic in an inclusive and respectful manner.
Encourage Reflection:
Create a safe and respectful environment for pupils to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings about Remembrance Day.
Be Flexible:
Be prepared to adapt your lesson plan based on the students' responses and engagement. Be flexible and open to addressing their questions and concerns.
Discussing Remembrance Day in a primary school setting is an opportunity to teach important values and lessons of gratitude, respect, and peace to young children. By using age-appropriate explanations, engaging activities, and sensitivity to the pupils' needs. Educators, including supply teaching staff, can help young hearts understand and appreciate the significance of this important day.
Insightful!