
From “For the Fallen” by Laurence Binyon

Remembrance Day, which falls on 11th November 2018, is held in Commonwealth countries to honour military personnel who have lost their lives to protect the freedom of others. More than 12,000 British servicemen and women have been killed or injured in the line of duty since 1945.

On Remembrance Day weekend, special ceremonies are held at war memorials and poppy wreaths are laid to pay respect to those who fought for their country.

In London, the royal family attend a commemorative ceremony at The Cenotaph in Whitehall (near the Houses of Parliament). The Queen, members of the Government, politicians and soldiers lay wreaths at the foot of this famous war memorial, followed by a service of remembrance conducted by the Bishop of London. Throughout the UK, a two minute silence is traditionally observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. This represents the guns falling silent on this day in 1918.

Why do we wear a poppy?

Many people show their respects on Remembrance Sunday by wearing a red poppy. This flower has long been associated with the First World War because, once the conflict drew to a close, it was the only plant to grow on the barren battlefields of Northern France and Belgium. In 1915, a Canadian doctor named John McCrae was treating soldiers wounded during the war and noticed poppies blooming amongst the gravestones. Inspired by the sight, he went on to write the famous poem, “In Flanders Fields”. The poem is often read each November in memory of those who served in war. The poppy was also adopted as  a symbol of The Royal British Legion, an organisation which provides support for people in the forces, veterans and their families. The current paper version of the poppy was introduced over 30 years ago but the sale of these continues to provide vital funds for the charity.

Activities to mark Remembrance Day in your setting:
  • Read a story about Remembrance Day
    Explain to the children what the day is for: to honour and remember those who died fighting for our country. Some children may know or know of someone who is currently serving in the armed forces
  • Create your own poppy wreath with the children
    Let them lay the wreath at a memorial held at a local church. Upon returning to your setting, lead a discussion about the meaning of Remembrance Day and why we pay our respects to those who served in the war.
  • Make your very own craft poppies for children to take home
    These can be made with a variety of different textures and materials such as potatoes and poppy seeds or even paper plates and paint!
  • Send thank you letters and pictures
    The children can draw pictures to thank those serving in the armed forces. Make arrangements to send them to someone serving – this could be a family member of one of your pre-schoolers or a friend of their family.
  • Visit residents in a care home for a Remembrance-Day-themed tea party
    Alternatively you could invite them to visit your setting. Why not help the children bake some shortbread biscuits or cupcakes beforehand with red “poppy” icing to share with the residents at the party?


2018 is a very special year, as it marks the 100-year anniversary of
the end of the First World War.

How will you be celebrating Remembrance Day in your setting? Let us know by
emailing marketing@parenta.com and sharing your ideas!

Expression of interest


You have Successfully Subscribed!

Share This