veterans day presentation ideas for elementary students

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Veterans Day Activities For Elementary Students: Ideas, Art Projects, Prompts, And Worksheets

February 10, 2024 //  by  Sharayah Lynn Grattan

Veterans Day is a holiday that celebrates those who have fought for our freedom! It is the perfect time to show appreciation to veterans, write letters to veterans, and read a book about veterans. If you need lesson plans, a variety of activities, writing prompts, or other ideas for teaching about this holiday and the military service, check out this great list of 44 patriotic activities below! These activities span across different areas of content and can serve as excellent educational activities.

1. Kid’s Books for Veterans Day

Students in your elementary classroom may have never heard about Veterans Day, so a great place to start is with some read-aloud picture books. This national holiday means many things and has a lot of history, so sharing kid-friendly stories and images can help the classroom discuss this important topic.

Learn More:  I Can Teach My Child

2. A Million Thanks: Letter Writing

This organization collects letters people write and distributes them to troops all over the world. Provide your students with some prompts and ideas for what to write, then give them some paper to write their own letters to veterans who will really appreciate them!

Learn More:  A Million Thanks

3. Branches of Military Craft

Here is an interactive activity that will explain the different branches of the military in a way elementary students can visualize and understand. You can print out and cut the pieces for games and extension activities!

Learn More:  Fantastic Fun and Learning

4. DIY Forever Flowers

Another in-class way to show appreciation for veterans is to make these adorable forever flowers using patriotic paper. With your class, watch the video tutorial and try out some of these DIY flower designs.

Learn More:  YouTube

5. Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

Here is a printable activity that asks students to compare and contrast these two patriotic holidays. You can have an open and honest discussion about what each holiday represents and see if students have any personal accounts from family or friends who have served in the military.

Learn More:  Think Grow Giggle

6. Classroom Paper Link Display

Get inspired by this creative approach to national pride by using red, white, and blue paper strips to piece together a flag! You can do this for any country, just get the colored paper you’ll need and help your kiddos cut and tape the pieces.

Learn More:  Pinterest

7. Veterans Day Info Scavenger Hunt

Once you have spent a lesson or two teaching your class the facts and history of Veterans Day, see how much they can remember by giving them a scavenger hunt to complete in pairs or small groups.

Learn More:  Jillian Starr Teaching

8. Build a Soldier

This free printable color craft of a military soldier is the perfect resource for your Veterans Day lesson plan. It incorporates constructing the pieces to build the solider (cutting and gluing skills), as well as space to write, and once completed and shared with the class, it can be hung up as patriotic decoration!

Learn More:  A Touch of Class Teaching

9. Timeline in History Overview Lesson

Give your elementary class an overview of how Veterans Day came to be on November 11th, what groups were involved in its creation, and what organizations observe this holiday. You can make this a vocabulary lesson, highlighting terms such as military, freedom, soldier, etc.

Learn More:  Time 4 Learning

10. Patriotic Sing-Along Songs

There are tons of simple and educational songs for kids about Veterans Day. This link has many videos you can choose and play in your class for kids to sing along with and maybe even have a little dance party!

Learn More:  Living Montessori Now

11. Classroom Visits

There are organizations you can connect with to find veterans in your local area. Another option is to ask your students if they have any family or friends who are veterans who would be willing to visit the class during the week of Veterans Day and talk about their personal experiences and share some facts.

Learn More:  Beth’s Music Classroom

12. Color By Number

There are tons of fun and creative color-by-number pages available online you can access and print for free! Find a design your students will love and have them complete in class or as a homework activity.

Learn More:  Crayola

13. Attend a Parade!

Check out this link to see what events are happening in your area around Veterans Day, encourage students to attend, or make it a class field trip! This federal holiday is celebrated on and around November 11th every year in many cities all over the world.

Learn More:  Military

14. Remembrance Wreath

There are various foods, customs, traditions, and even flowers associated with Veterans Day or what some countries call “Remembrance Day”. This poppy craft uses egg cartons to make these sweet flowers, some paint, and glue to piece together this token of appreciation.

Learn More:  No Time for Flashcards

15. Poetry Reading and Creative Writing

You can use this famous poem for inspiration or provide some helpful writing prompts to get your students in the mindset of gratitude and appreciation for military veterans. Pick a few other poems, read them together, and have a whole class discussion.

Learn More:  PlanBee

16. Planting Poppies

Does your elementary school have green space that could use a pop of color? This link will show you how to plant and take care of poppies. Have your students help you plant seeds/taproots and watch the flowers grow over the months leading up to November.

Learn More:  Gardening Know How

17. Active Duty Care Packages

Did you know your school can get involved in sending care packages to active troops all over the world to brighten a soldier’s day? See what items are on their “wish list” and have students bring an item or two to class and contribute to a class box!

Learn More:  Hero Care Packages

18. Remembrance Bulletin Board Display

This picture craft incorporates many mediums of art including photography, color theory, paper folding, and student participation. Kids love seeing themselves on display so ask students to pose for this sweet gesture and make a big impact at your school.

19. DIY Poppy Stones

Remembrance stones are a low-prep resource you can make and use with your students as a small and simple reminder to show respect and appreciation to veterans. They can bring in their own stones and paint them with phrases like “thank you” and “always remember”.

Learn More:  Happy Hooligans

20. Aid for Homeless Veterans

Unfortunately, many military veterans have to deal with difficulties when coming back from active duty. Some individuals may have trauma, lost jobs/relationships, and financial instability, also there are many disabled veterans. This website shows what items they may need and what your school can do to contribute.

Learn More:  USA Cares

21. Build a Soldier Writing Activity 

This writing activity is a great way to celebrate this national holiday. There are differentiated templates, depending on your students’ needs. They can be displayed with this cute coloring sheet template to showcase a crafty little soldier. Students can write about soldiers or the holiday.

Learn More: Teachers Pay Teachers

22. Active Duty Care Packages

Veterans Day is a great time to sponsor a soldier or create a care package for active troops. Students can all pitch in and bring a few things to include in the package. Don’t forget the handwritten cards!

Learn More: Veterans United

23. Veterans Day Virtual Scavenger Hunt

Technology is a great way to enhance teaching these days! Use this virtual scavenger hunt to let students reinforce their own learning by finding facts around the web. Students could do this independently, in small groups, or with partners.

Learn More: Education World

24. Veterans Day Flipbook

This adorable flipbook covers all the bases of Veterans Day. Students can learn about the holiday, more about veterans, and the branches of service. This flipbook is student-friendly and can be colored and shared with family afterward.

Learn More: Appletastic Learning

25. Thank You Letters

Use this simple, but cute template for having your students write thank-you notes to veterans. You can fold the notes into cards. These would also be good for mounting on construction paper and hanging in the hallways for decoration.

26. Bring A Veteran to School

Allow students to invite a veteran to school with them for a classroom visit. Have many veterans come into your classroom so your students can express appreciation through patriotic songs, art, and poetry. Have students give thank you letters to them as they leave.

Learn More: Kids Creative Chaos

27. Compare and Contrast Veterans Day and Memorial Day 

Students can learn more about two important holidays. They can read up and learn more about Memorial Day, during your teaching unit about Veterans Day. Then, they can compare and contrast the two holidays. They can write an essay using the information they learn.

Learn More: Think, Grow, Giggle

28. All About Soldiers

All about soldiers writing is a great way to incorporate what students know about soldiers. Students can list adjectives, write poems, or just sentences that explain more about the soldiers they have been learning about.

Learn More: Teach Starter

29. Flag Collage Project

This art project is great for all grade levels! Let students create this beautiful version of our American flag! Have them collect and glue pieces of paper of each color to the correct places. Display this in the hall or front of the school for military veterans to see as they enter the school.

Learn More: Deep Space Sparkle

30. Branches of Service Puzzles

Part of an activity bundle, these branches of service puzzles have each picture that go together. Students will see the uniforms, objects that represent each branch, and pictures of service men and women from each branch. These are easy to print, laminate, and cut.

Learn More: Fantastic Fun & Learning

31. Veteran Day Poppy

Poppies are a popular thing to see around Memorial Day and Veterans Day. This is a simple, yet touching craft that students can easily make. You can attach a sweet poem to it and younger students can look for sight words, while older students can write their own poems.

Learn More: Mr. Wheeler’s First Grade

32. Nonfiction Veterans Day Writing

This reading and writing combo serves as a great comprehension activity for students. Pair some picture books, or possibly even a few video clips, with this writing prompt and have students produce some nonfiction writing to go along with what they have read about and learned.

Learn More: Mrs. Wheeler’s First Grade

33. Patriotic Thank You Banner

This patriotic banner will make a wonderful display for your classroom, hallway, or other places around your school. It’s a great investment to make as your kids will be able to hang it around their school every year and you can even invite them to decorate it with a bunch of hearts or personalized thank you messages.

Learn More: Lofaris

34. Heart Craft

Let students create a camo heart for displaying in the hall or serving as cards for veterans. Students can tear strips of construction paper and glue them into the heart template to form a representation of the camo that soldiers wear.

Learn More: A Classroom on Cloud Nine

35. Our Heroes Display 

Creating a hero display at school is a great way to bring ties from your student’s homes into the school. Celebrate the soldiers and service men and women in your students’ lives by honoring them and their connections to the boys and girls in your class.

Learn More: Pinterest

36. Soldier Craft and Adjective Activity 

Teaching parts of speech is not always easy. There are many parts and students get bored. This is a fun way to incorporate teaching adjectives into your Veterans Day unit. Have students craft a soldier and use sentence frames, or create their own, to help describe the soldiers.

37. Wall of Thank You

A great way to show appreciation for veterans is to create a “thank you wall” for them. Attach photos of them in uniform, even include famous veterans, and display them with a card that has their name and military information. Make sure you include the red, white, and blue theme!

Learn More: Amy McGough’s Portfolio

38. Breakfast for Veterans or School Assembly

Invite veterans to come into the school or classroom for a special program. Have school students invite veterans to their elementary or middle school for a special breakfast or assembly to honor them. Include American veterans, but don’t forget disabled veterans and female veterans.

Learn More: Beth’s Music Classroom

39. A Soldier Is…

A great way to start this activity is whole group and by using this anchor chart. Read nonfiction books that tell more about soldiers and have a group discussion about what characteristics soldiers need. Make notes so students can reference them when they go to do their own, independent writing.

Learn More: Life in First Grade

40. Stained Glass Soldier Craft

This adorable craft will be a big hit! Students will enjoy creating this suncatcher-type craft for Veterans Day. It is bright and colorful and nice for adding some patriotic decoration to your school or classroom in preparation for a school assembly for this federal holiday.

Learn More: Clever Patch

41. Directed Drawing

Directed drawings are a big favorite for many elementary students. This one features a veteran in military gear. Students will listen to directions and use them to create a drawing. They will then color them. These serve as a wonderful bulletin board display!

Learn More: First and Kinder Blue Skies

42. Branches of Service Hat 

As students learn more about the different branches of service, they will begin to notice the different uniforms. Students can create these adorable hats that showcase men and women from each branch. This is a great activity to pair with informational literature.

Learn More: Katie Roltgen Teaching

43. Patriotic Q-Tip Painting 

Especially good for young students, this Q-tip painting activity is a great way to create a patriotic heart. This artwork is easy to do because students simply need a Q-tip and some paint. Print these templates and students will be busy creating their own flags.

Learn More: Sparkling in Primary

44. Veteran Themed Math Memory 

Add some fun to everyday math activities! This math memory game is a great way to work on number recognition and counting. It is all made with the Veterans Day theme, so it is perfect to use at this time of year!

Engaging Ways to Teach Elementary Kids About Veterans Day

As we approach Veterans Day, it is important to take the time to educate elementary kids about the importance and significance of this holiday. This is a day to commemorate and honor the brave men and women who have served in the military. Dedicate some time throughout the day to help elementary kids express their deep gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by our veterans. It is essential to instill in the next generation a profound understanding of the importance of this day and the significance it holds for those who have selflessly defended our freedoms. Teaching about Veterans Day can be both educational and enjoyable.

Here are some fun and interactive ways to teach students about this important holiday:

1. Guest Speakers & Veteran Interviews

Elementary students are full of questions. If possible, invite veterans to come and speak to your class. They can share their experiences, answer questions, and provide a personal perspective on the significance of Veterans Day. This hands-on learning initiative can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the significance of Veterans Day. It helps to connect the younger generation with the real-life stories of those who have served our country. Your elementary students, armed with thoughtful questions prepared in advance, can conduct age-appropriate interviews with local veterans. Through this personal interaction, the children will gain a firsthand understanding of the experiences, sacrifices, and bravery of our veterans, allowing them to appreciate the importance of honoring those who have served. These interviews not only provide valuable educational experiences but also serve as a meaningful way for our young learners to express gratitude and respect for the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms.

The interviews can cover a range of topics, including:

Your decision to join the military

Notable experiences during your service (retold in an age-appropriate way)

The impact of military service on your life

Reflections on Veterans Day and its significance

2. Interactive Timeline

Create an interactive timeline of key events in military history. Have students research and present different historical events related to veterans and the military. Creating an interactive timeline of key events in military history is a dynamic and engaging way to teach students about the rich tapestry of Veterans Day. This hands-on approach not only brings history to life but also allows students to visualize the chronological sequence of significant events. By encouraging students to research and present different historical milestones related to military service, teachers can instill a sense of connection to the past. The interactive timeline provides a tangible representation of the sacrifices and triumphs of our veterans, fostering a deeper appreciation for their service. This collaborative project encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and research skills, making it an effective and memorable method to educate students about the historical context of Veterans Day.

3. Letters to Veterans

Encourage students to write letters or create cards expressing gratitude to veterans . These letters can be sent to local veterans' organizations or distributed to veterans in the community.

4. Veterans Day Parade

If there is a local Veterans Day parade, consider taking the class to watch it. If there is not one, consider doing a mini parade within your school. Have kids create art and hold up flags. They can sing a song or tell a story. If students have written letters, let them read them at a podium. Discuss the symbolism and importance of the parade, and allow students to share their experiences afterward.

5. Themed Art Projects

Engage students in art projects that focus on a Veterans day theme. This could mean showing a sense of gratitude and patriotism or expressing sadness and appreciation for those who died during service. They can create posters, banners, or even sculptures that honor veterans and express appreciation for their service. If you work with an older group of kids, they may be able to paint an appropriate Veterans Day memorial wall in your school.

6. Veterans Day Quizzes and Games: Create quizzes or interactive games related to veterans and military history. This can include trivia questions, crossword puzzles, or a scavenger hunt with facts about Veterans Day.

BUY the Veterans Day Reading Bundle HERE !

7. Read Alouds

Select age-appropriate books about veterans and their experiences. After reading, engage in discussions about the stories and the sacrifices made by veterans. There are several books tailored for elementary school children that sensitively address the theme of Veterans Day. These books often explore concepts of service, sacrifice, and gratitude in an age-appropriate manner.

Here are some books that may work for you:

"The Wall" by Eve Bunting A poignant story about a young boy and his father visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It beautifully captures the emotional impact of war and the significance of remembering those who served.

"Hero Dad" by Melinda Hardin This book celebrates the everyday heroes in the lives of military children. It focuses on the special bond between a father serving in the military and his child, highlighting the sacrifices made by military families.

"America's White Table" by Margot Theis Raven An illustrated book that tells the story of a tradition observed by many military families on Veterans Day—setting a white table to honor and remember fallen, missing, or captive military service members.

"The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and Her Tribute to Veterans" by Barbara Walsh This picture book tells the true story of Moina Belle Michael, who played a significant role in establishing the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for veterans. It introduces children to the history behind this iconic symbol.

"Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood" by Valerie Pfundstein This book introduces young readers to the concept of veterans as everyday heroes in their communities. It highlights the diverse backgrounds of veterans and their contributions to society.

"The Flag We Love" by Pam Muñoz Ryan This beautifully illustrated book explores the history and symbolism of the American flag. It provides a broader understanding of patriotic symbols and their significance.

Before introducing any book to your classroom, it's recommended to review the content to ensure it aligns with your students' age and sensitivities. These books offer valuable insights into the importance of honoring and remembering veterans in ways that are accessible and meaningful for elementary school children.

8. Veterans Day Assembly

Organize a school-wide or classroom assembly to commemorate Veterans Day. Include student presentations, performances, and guest speakers to make it a memorable event.

Plan a classroom party and invite any veterans who are connected with the school. Check with your support staff as well as other teachers, and extend the invitation to parents as well. This could be a great time to share the thank you cards the students made. It's also a good opportunity for kids to plan a party for others when so many celebrations they are a part of at that young age are often about them. If you are American, here are some patriotic-themed party decorations . a classroom door cover . Students can also color a patriotic tablecloth . And here are some hanging Veterans Day decorations .

9. Flag Etiquette Lesson

Teach students about the proper way to display and fold the American flag. You can have a hands-on activity where students practice folding a flag.

10. Veterans Day Craft Stations

Set up craft stations where students can create patriotic crafts such as poppy flowers, American flag bookmarks, or patriotic bracelets. This allows for creativity while reinforcing the significance of the day.

Kids can create these wooden flags for Veterans Day. This is a nice activity to complete after learning about flag etiquette. Students can also gift these to a local veteran once they have made it. A great way to practice with construction, art, and expressing gratitude.

Make Craft flags using tissue paper. These can be placed up as decorations for Veterans Day. Students can also practice pattern-making with this simple activity. Here is a kit if you need it .

Students can make American flag pin crafts and give them to veterans. They can complete this craft with very little supplies but if you would like a kit, here is one . They could also sell them to raise money for a local cause supporting veterans. Another craft that they could make and gift or sell is pens. Here are some patriotic craft pens .

Students can use beads to make jewelry for local veterans. Here is a kit with patriotic beads . You can decorate the classroom with these sun catchers .

You can turn student art into magnets with magnet tape . Here are some color-your-own magnets . These can be keepsakes for them to take home or work as nice gifts for the veterans in their lives.

11. Veteran Care Packages

Students can create care packages for veterans currently serving overseas. They can stock these with things from home that veterans often miss such as candies, cookies, and lip balm. Contact your local VA or Operation Support Our Troops for details about what to include in packages. These agencies can also be a great way to help you get the packages to veterans. This is also a great way to send the letters that kids wrote to veterans. Here are some themed care packages that kids can fill.

12. Visit a Memorial or Graves

On Veterans Day many people will visit memorials. Look up local memorials in your area and plan a field trip. Students can look up the history of that memorial prior to going. They can use the experience to help them with a presentation about that place or event later. If possible, students can place flags , pinwheels , or flowers such as poppies on military graves.

Happy Veterans Day. There are many ways to honor our heroes and teach valuable lessons about gratitude, service, and community to elementary students. Remember to approach the topic with sensitivity and age-appropriate content. Make sure to reach out to parents and administration to avoid any triggering events. This is such an important holiday to cover and it is vital that we do so while ensuring that students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the contributions of veterans.

Want more details about my Veterans Day reading bundle? Check out this video.

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K-12 Internet Resource Center

Free PreK-12 lesson plans, activities, and resources

Veterans Day Activities and Lesson Plans

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have served in our armed forces. To help teachers bring the importance of this day into their classrooms, we’ve put together a range of teaching resources for preK-12 students.

For elementary school students, there are resources designed to introduce the concept of Veterans Day in a straightforward and engaging way. They include Veterans Day activities like writing postcards and thank-you notes, which help younger students understand why we honor veterans. Simple projects encourage them to think about the meaning of service in an accessible manner.

Secondary school resources take a more detailed approach, suitable for older students who can handle a deeper discussion about the complexities of military service and the significance of Veterans Day. These Veterans Day lesson plans include documents from history, presentations that incorporate multiple types of media, and discussion prompts that encourage students to think critically and share their own thoughts.

Attributes: PreK 1-3 4-5 6-8 9-12 Lesson Plan

Resource Link:  https://sharemylesson.com/collections/veterans-day-activities-lesson-plans

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Activities & Lessons

8 Free Veterans Day Activities for Elementary Students

Every year on November 11, we celebrate Veterans Day. It is a time to recognize the bravery of those who served in the United States military, in either the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corp, Coast Guard, National Guard, or Space Force. Across the U.S., we commemorate veterans’ honorable acts of service with parades and celebrations, including an official wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, in Virginia.

On this day, even our youngest learners can show their gratitude to the countless veterans of the past and present who have protected and served our country. Help younger students understand the significance of the day and give them an opportunity to say “thank you” with the following Veterans Day activities and lessons for elementary students.

Veterans Day Projects and Activities for Elementary Students

Learn about and honor veterans with the following Veterans Day projects and activities for your K–5 students.

Create a Veterans Day Poster

Have students create a poster of their own design for Veterans Day. Before putting together their posters, get students to brainstorm possible American symbols, words, colors, and images to feature. Encourage students to embellish their posters with pictures of people they know that have served.

Students who may need more guidance can use the following sentence starters to help them create their poster.

• Veterans are ____. (Challenge students to choose a word that describes veterans, like brave or loyal.)
• We celebrate Veterans Day because ____.

Write Thank You Letters to Those Who Serve

Show gratitude to those who served with a letter-writing activity. Have students write thank you letters and cards for active-duty military members or for patients in military hospitals. You can sign up for Operation Gratitude and receive a letter-writing tool kit, which details writing guidelines and tips. The organization also provides mailing instructions to easily send letters to veterans and active-duty members.

Read Aloud a Book that Honors Veterans

A read-aloud is a great way to engage the entire class in learning about those who have served in the U.S. military. You might choose a picture book that explains what Veterans Day is all about, or one that explores the sacrifices veterans have made and their impact on our country. Here are some picture books to consider sharing with your elementary students.

• Blue Sky, White Stars by Sarvinder Naberhaus, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
• Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin, Illustrated by Bryan Langdo
• Operation Rescue Dog by Maria Gianferrari, Illustrated by Luisa Uribe
• Soldier for Equality: José de la Luz Sáenz and the Great War by Duncan Tonatiuh
• The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and Her Tribute to Veterans by Barbara E. Walsh, Illustrated by Layne Johnson
• Twenty-One Steps by Jeff Gottesfeld, Illustrated by Matt Tavares
• Veterans Day by Allan Morey, Illustrated by Galia Bernstein
• The Wall by Eve Bunting, Illustrated by Ronald Himler

Host a Veterans Day Show-and-Tell

Over 4 million U.S. children are military-affiliated, having family members who are veterans, reservists, or active-duty service members. Ask students if they have family members who have served and invite them to be part of a Veterans Day show-and-tell. This way, students can showcase and share their family’s military mementos, like fatigues, badges, or photographs.

Invite Veterans to Speak to Students

Have students learn all about Veterans Day from veterans themselves. Open your classroom up for veterans to visit—either virtually or in person—and share what Veterans Day means to them. Invite students’ family members or family members of fellow teachers who have formerly served. During their visit, you can request veterans to share stories or experiences from their time in the military. Then, you can give your students time to ask questions. If no faculty members or students in your school have family members who can speak to your class, contact a local veterans’ organization to arrange an in-class or virtual visit.

Programs like Take a Veteran to School Day , a HISTORY® initiative, encourage schools to connect with veterans so students can hear stories of service and learn more about Veterans Day. Register for this free program to organize a one-class visit with veterans or an all school assembly.

Veterans Day Lessons for Elementary Students

Read on for Veterans Day lessons to do with elementary students in Grades K–5.

Pen a Veterans Day Acrostic Poem

Celebrate Veterans Day through poem writing. Ask students to write an acrostic poem, which is a poem where the first letter of each line spells out a word when read vertically. Before writing, engage students in a class brainstorm session to think of possible words to use in their poems, such as "remembrance," "troops," and "victory." Then give students a word or phrase, like “veteran” or “Veterans Day,” and have students pen a poem about a veteran or the holiday. Below is an example of a Veterans Day acrostic poem using the word “veteran.”

V aliant soldiers protecting our country

E very day we are grateful for their service

T roops that serve our nation

E lite members of the military

R emembering and honoring

A merican heroes of today and yesterday

N ever forgetting their bravery

Compare and Contrast Veterans Day and Memorial Day

Students may mix up Veterans Day and Memorial Day , as both holidays honor those who served. Challenge older students to research the similarities and differences between the two holidays and record their findings in a Venn Diagram graphic organizer. For younger students, consider reading aloud picture books about the two holidays. Download a free printable Venn Diagram graphic organizer below.

Research a Notable Veteran

What do Neil Armstrong, Elvis Presley, and Harriet Tubman have in common? They all once served in the U.S. Armed Forces. As a Veterans Day lesson, have students research a historical figure who has served. Once students have completed their research, they can write a report on the person, create a poster, or video presentation. Afterwards, students can present the notable veteran to the class.

We salute all those who served and leave you with a special message from a military-connected member at HMH—our Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer.

Veteran’s Day is a day of reflection, remembrance, and appreciation for all who have served in or in support of our nation's military. At HMH, we proudly amplify the unique perspective veterans and military family members bring to the workplace. And as a proud military daughter, spouse, and Blue Star Mother, I believe in the motto of the U.S. Army Equity and Inclusion Agency that reads, “Diversity is the Force. Equity is the Goal. Inclusion is the Way.” —Benita Flucker, Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer

More Ideas for Veterans Day Activities?

Have any more ideas for Veterans Day lesson plans for elementary students? Share your favorites with us on Instagram or Facebook .

Find additional Veterans Day activities for high school students on Shaped .

Download our FREE calendar of activities!

• Activities & Lessons
• Social Studies
• Grades PreK-K

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Best Veterans Day Activities, Resources & Printables For Teachers

by Rachael Moshman

Veterans Day is Wednesday, November 11, 2020. Many schools are closed in honor of those who served our country. Since it falls in the middle of the week this year, it’s a good opportunity to extend the learning all week. Here are 15 Veterans Day teaching resources to help inspire your lessons.

1. U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Teaching Guide

This comprehensive guide features tons of information, vocabulary words, student activities, scholarship information, and instructions for respecting and folding the flag. Find it HERE .

2. Life Leaders Institute Veterans Day Education

Fewer than 5% of Americans know exactly what the holiday is or when it was started. This site is dedicated to changing that. It is filled with student assignments, videos, posters, and other info. Find it HERE .

3. Listen to Veteran Stories

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs has a collection of links to veterans telling their stories so students can learn directly from the source. Find it HERE .

4. Scholastic Veterans Day Teaching Lesson Plans

Scholastic has a variety of Veteran’s Day lesson plans geared at grades 3-5. Find it HERE .

5. Teacher Vision Packets

Teacher Vision has two downloadable activity packets – one for K-8 and one for elementary. They also offer links to dozens of other related resources. Find it HERE .

6. Star Spangled Banner Lyrics and History

Teach your students the history and lyrics of the national anthem. Find it HERE .

7. Analyze Patriotic Songs

Download this packet of patriotic songs. Analyze the lyrics and discuss the history of each song. Find it HERE .

8. Write Thank You Letters

Operation We Are Here offers free printable thank you letters to send to veterans. Find it HERE .

9. Veterans Day Teaching Database

TeachersFirst offers a great database helping teachers connect Veterans Day to other curriculum for integrated learning. Find it HERE .

10. Teacher Planet Resource List

Teacher Planet has a long list of lesson plans, activities, coloring pages, printables, and more for Veterans Day. Find it HERE .

11. National Education Association Activities

NEA has put together a great list of activities including wartime simile poetry and military uniform reading comprehension. Find it HERE .

12. Make Personal Connections Students Won’t Forget

Hey Teach! has some memorable ideas for connecting students with veterans in a hands-on way that will make an impact on all involved. Find it HERE .

13. Veteran’s History Project

This is a great resource for getting students started on interviewing and writing about veterans in your area. Find it HERE .

14. Themed-Word Search

Use a word search for early finishers or bell work. Make sure to discuss the meaning of the words after. Find it HERE .

15. Teachers Pay Teachers Freebies

TpT creators have come through with a ton of free Veteran’s Day printables. Find it HERE .

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