As we commemorate another year of our freedom from the Britishers on 15th August this year, we also hope to win the battle against COVID-19. We will have to celebrate this Independence Day amidst social distancing norms and other restrictions, but there is no way it will stifle our spirits.
Being one of the most important milestones in Indian history, the onus of sensitizing your kids about this day lies on your shoulders. In fact, your kids would also be equally curious and are likely to ask you a million questions! So, here is a low-down on how to teach the importance of Independence Day to your kids:
Talk About the Freedom Struggle
It took 90 long years and sacrifices of thousands of freedom fighters to chase away Britishers from our country. They were imprisoned for raising voices, suffered grave injuries and lost their precious lives. Our children need to respect and admire their patriotism, struggles and sacrifices.
You can talk to your kids about freedom fighters and various incidents that took place at that time by watching movies, reading books or telling them stories. This way, your children will easily relate to Independence Day and its significance.
Decode the National Flag
We all love to proudly display the love for our country on the Independence Day by waving the national flag or wearing it in the form of badges, brooches or lapel pins. But how often have you explained the design of our national flag to your kids?
This Independence Day, introduce your kids to interesting facts about the national flag:
- Its history – how it was made and how its design evolved.
- Three colours and their meaning
- Ashoka Chakra/Wheel of Law and what it represents
- Do’s and don’ts of flag hoisting – for example, the saffron panel should always be on the top or we should always face the flag at the time of hoisting.
Describe the National Anthem
Jana Gana Mana – our national anthem invokes a deep patriotic feeling in all of us whenever we hear it. We teach our kids to stand in attention and sing whenever it is played. But, that’s not enough. Your kids would be delighted to know the history behind it.
Who composed it? In which language is it written? When and where was it first played in public? What do the lyrics mean?
If you are not sure about the answers, just dig up the information on Google and tell your kids about it.
Play Trivia
If your kids are older and know titbits of Independence Day, you can play a trivia quiz with them to test their knowledge in a fun manner. You can even turn it into a family game and have a good time together!
Do Fun Activities
For the little munchkins at your home, you can engage them in Independence Day-themed colouring, drawing and art & craft activities. Make them wear tricolour clothes and wave the flag. They might not comprehend the importance of this day to a full extent, but they will know that it is something special to celebrate.
Let us know your Independence Day celebration plans for this year!
Very nice an article for all parents . It’s an eye – opener for ordinary people like us as to the important role that parents have in teaching their children the significance of Independence Day and also about the different aspects mentioned in the write-up, so that the future generation learns the value of freedom/independence and is able to respect the sacrifices made to earn it. This knowledge and awareness will also help in understanding how responsible should we behave as citizens of our beloved country to preserve its dignity and sovereignty.
Nice activities. Honestly, even I would love to explore some facts about our national anthem and flag with my kids.
Please do so Kapil! You will realize that there are so many facts that even we as parents don’t know. Speaking from personal experience:-)
Talking to our kids about Independence Day is very important. It also instils a feeling of patriotism and belonging to some extent.
Indeed Riya!