Every November 11th, Canadians across the country pause to remember those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.
In our homeschool, Remembrance Day is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a moment of reflection, gratitude, and connection. It’s a time to slow down, to teach our children not just history, but humanity.
Slowing Down to Reflect
One of the blessings of homeschooling is the ability to move at our own pace. On Remembrance Day, we don’t rush through lessons. Instead, we take the time to truly understand the meaning behind the day.
Our morning usually begins with a quiet reflection. Sometimes we read “In Flanders Fields,” or watch a short video about Canadian soldiers. Other times, we simply talk about what courage, service, and peace mean in our everyday lives.
Even my younger children understand that remembrance isn’t only about the past — it’s about gratitude for today and hope for tomorrow.
Learning Through Stories
Children connect deeply with stories. History becomes real when they can see the people behind the dates.
We read picture books and short stories about Canadian soldiers, nurses, and families who experienced the war in different ways. Through these stories, we explore themes like bravery, loss, love, and resilience — all from a place of empathy and understanding.
Sometimes we’ll look at a world map to see where battles were fought or trace where the poppy came from as a symbol of remembrance. These little moments help my kids see how connected Canada is to the world.
Hands-On Remembrance Day Activities
In our homeschool, learning is always active and creative. On Remembrance Day, that might mean:
- Making paper poppies to wear or display on our window.
- Drawing doves and writing words that represent peace.
- Writing thank-you notes to veterans.
- Observing two minutes of silence at 11 a.m.
- Lighting a candle in honour of those who served.
Each activity is a way to make remembrance tangible — something my children can touch, see, and understand in their own way.
Why We Remember
As a homeschool mom, I see Remembrance Day as more than a history lesson. It’s a heart lesson.
It’s about teaching gratitude, empathy, and compassion. It’s about remembering that peace came at a cost, and that it’s our responsibility to honour that by how we live today — with kindness, courage, and respect for one another.
Homeschooling allows us to connect these big lessons to our daily lives, to talk about what peace looks like in our home, and how we can carry remembrance forward beyond one day in November.
Lest We Forget 🌺
Remembrance Day reminds us that freedom was not free — it was given through sacrifice and love. And every year, I’m grateful to guide my children through this day in a way that helps them not only learn about history, but feel its weight and meaning.
Because remembrance begins at home.
Sandy Esprit 
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