The American Flag

The American Flag

Kim @ Kids Matter

Today I am blogging about my memories of the American Flag and how it has influenced my life. My first memory of the American Flag is from elementary school; placing my hand over my heart, and learning the Pledge of Allegiance.   When we are little we are functionary. When I was old enough to understand the meaning of the pledge, I was filled with a sense of respect, and the understanding that I was a part of something big and powerful. We find flags in various places in our community like church, the post office, the library, schools, and in our neighbors’ yards.

I remember being in high school, I attended a DOD (Department of Defense) school in Yokohama, Japan.  One day a classmate ran someone’s pants up the flag pole.  OH, there was BIG trouble for that boy, never mind that we were on a military base.  I think my hand was over my mouth that day.

I joined the Army when I graduated high school.  I felt such pride when I was sworn in to uphold The Constitution of the United States.  When the National Anthem was played, I remember getting goose bumps.  In the military, we saluted the flag; everything was about respect for the American Flag.

When my father passed away, we had a military funeral.  My mother had passed away three months earlier from lung cancer so, I accepted the flag on “on behalf of a grateful nation” and… I sobbed.

Now, the flag is enjoyed and honored at sport events such as the Super Bowl and the Olympic games. It is ingrained in my soul that the United States’ Flag is revered and represents my country.

One of my four granddaughters has started school in Texas.  I am happy that she is allowed to recite the Pledge of Allegiance in her school, every day. I believe that the Pledge of Allegiance is where children get their first knowledge of America and begin to understand who we are as a nation.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Robin @ Kids Matter

Martin Luther King, Jr. was the leader of the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1950s and 60s.  Whites and Blacks were segregated in most aspects of life including, but not limited to; housing, businesses, church, education, and employment.  King inspired many people to fight for the equal rights and equal treatment that everyone deserves.  His, “I Have a Dream,” speech is probably how he is most remembered.  A key line states that his speech says that his dream is for his children to live and not be judged based on the color of their skin, but instead on their character and how they conduct themselves.    His ideals and teachings continue to inspire as the struggle to make sure all Americans have equal rights and are treated with dignity continues.

Below are some websites that have activities you can do with your children to celebrate this day.

·       Apples for the Teacher has coloring pages, worksheets, reading lists, puzzles and other games.

·       TLC has crafts and activities such as a matching game, peace medals, peaceful puppets, and an “I Have a Dream” pencil holder.

·       Family Education has a long list of Martin Luther King Jr. Day activities, including historical information about King, quizzes for parents and children, and ways to celebrate and honor him.

·        Teach with Me focuses on diversity and offers information about books and activities that may be used to show that being different is not a bad thing.