Independence Day is just around the corner! Every year, the day is celebrated on August 15 — a reminder of India’s struggle of freedom and independence from British rule that lasted for more than 200 years. Around the nation, the day is commemorated with great fervour and passion. Various cultural events, parades and flag hoisting activities that highlight the solidarity of the nation, take place on this special occasion.
However, young children may not realise the significance and historical context of this great day, thereby making it important for parents to introduce the concept of Independence Day and instill values of patriotism and historical awareness in their children.
Here are some engaging ways to teach kids about the importance of Independence Day:
Storytelling
One of the best ways to teach your children about the Indian Independence movement and freedom struggle is through stories, after all children of all age groups adore stories. You can start by organising a reading event in your home or locality and invite other neighbouring families to read stories aloud, highlighting the sacrifices of our great freedom fighters. This will deepen your child’s understanding towards the day and foster a great bond between family and friends.
Go for a historical walk
Nothing tells us more about our history than the places where the historical moments took place. There are several landmarks and monuments connected with India’s freedom struggle, including the Red Fort, Jallianwala Bagh, Gandhi Ashram and many others, that provide children with a deeper knowledge about India’s glorious history. You can visit museums as well since children are fascinated with age-old artefacts and manuscripts.
Get crafty
Kids can make tricolour badges, t-shirts, paper flowers and much more. (Source: Freepik)
Why not channel your kid’s artistic side this Independence Day? Most kids enjoy drawing and painting, so you can arrange for crafts materials like crayons, paints, sheets of paper and much more to ignite your child’s curiosity towards the day. They can make tricolour badges, t-shirts, paper flowers and much more. This will add more thrill to your celebrations.
Sing patriotic songs
What could be more fun than organising a patriotic karaoke or a game of Antakshari at home with friends and relatives? Tune into the melodious songs that highlight the greatness of our nation such as Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon or Mere Desh Ki Dharti. Alongside, make your kid understand the real meaning behind every lyric.
Movie marathon
Independence Day is the best time to gather your loved ones to binge on some patriotic films lie Gandhi, Mangal Pandey, Chak de India, Border and more. Showing patriotic films to your child will help them understand the nuances of the day better and have a powerful impact on them.
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Costume contest
Arrange a fancy-dress competition where kids can dress up as their favourite freedom fighters — Mahatma Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, Rani Laxmibai, Jawaharlal Nehru, among others. It will help your kids feel more connected to these historical figures and know more about the people they are dressing up as. You can turn this more fun by using various props and telling them to recite speeches.
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