Sending Veterans Day cards is a thoughtful and impactful way to teach students about the importance of honoring those who have served our country. Here is a guide to help educators facilitate this activity with their students.
Step 1: Start with Education
Before you begin creating the cards, it’s important for students to understand the significance of Veterans Day. Take some time to educate them about the history and why it’s essential to honor veterans and active duty personnel.
Step 2: Materials and Instructions
Gather materials such as cardstock, markers, stickers, and any other decorative items. Provide students with card-making instructions and encourage creativity while maintaining a respectful tone in the messages.
Step 3: Writing Messages
Encourage your students to write heartfelt messages expressing gratitude. These can include thanking the veterans for their service, acknowledging their courage, and wishing them happiness and health.
Step 4: Collecting Cards
Set a due date for when all cards should be completed and collect them. This will give you time to organize them before sending.
Step 5: Finding Recipients
Research local veteran organizations, VA hospitals, or military bases where you can send the cards. You can also look for national programs that distribute cards to veterans and active duty personnel.
Step 6: Mailing the Cards
Once you have a list of recipients or a program to send cards through, package the cards securely and send them out in a timely manner so they arrive before Veterans Day.
Step 7: Reflecting on the Experience
After sending the cards, take some time for your students to reflect on what they’ve learned from the experience. Encourage them to discuss their feelings about the project and its impact on their understanding of military service.
By sending Veterans Day cards from your students to vets and active-duty personnel, you’re not only honoring those who serve but also fostering a sense of gratitude and patriotism in young people.
