During the first quarter of the school year we get many opportunities to explore our patriotism by celebrating Constitution Day in September, exploring the election process in early November, followed quickly by observing Veterans Day. The world rejoiced at the end of World War I and in 1938 the federal holiday of "Armistice Day" was created. In 1954 the holiday was renamed to "Veterans Day" so that all Veterans could be honored. What types of activities can we do to help children appreciate the Veterans that have served? My goal is twofold: one, to honor the Veterans, and two, to build some technology skills into the process. Some ideas for using technology to honor the Veterans include:
Visiting the websites for children created by the Veteran organizations. Write letters, poems, and create cards for the Veterans and distribute at local Veteran hospitals and homes. These cards can be made in KidPix or any other drawing program. This might include a flag with a note written in the stripes, or word-processed letters with clip art, or computerized drawings of the people of the armed forces (especially well done by kindergarten, first and second grades!) Create a class book of all the pictures created by the class, bind, and give to a local VA hospital or VA home. Podcasting of recorded histories created by interviewing Veterans, either in school or out of school. Podcast by students about why we are grateful for the armed forces. Bring Veterans to school and honor them through songs, skits, and stories from the children. Bring a Veteran to school to share with the students about the history and experiences of being a part of the armed forces.
Around the world this day is celebrated whether it is called Veterans Day, Remembrance Day, or Armistice Day. The idea is to renew our commitment to world peace. The children of our world need to be taught and reminded that world peace is a goal worth achieving. In addition, our children need to take time to connect with adults, learn to listen, and appreciate what the people who have served our country have to teach all of us.
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Download a free detailed activity packet to extend and supplement these ideas (including specific web-based activities) at http://technologylessonsforteachers.com
Kathy Cothran is an elementary media specialist committed to helping teachers use technology in exciting ways with students without spending hours of time planning technology-rich lessons. Her vast teaching experience ranges from preschool through Master's level education classes.
For years Kathy has been a "Gadget Girl." She loves technology! Tie that to her extensive teaching background and she has been able to interest, invigorate, and inspire children and teachers to use technology in a rich, exciting manner.
Interested in ways that toys can become learning tools? Visit http://turningtoysintotools.com
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