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Home › Articles › Holiday: Spring/Summer › Patriotic Adventures

Patriotic Adventures

Celebrating Presidents' Day With Your Kids

By Suzy Feine

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Can you name all of America's past presidents? If not, perhaps it's time you and your family brushed up on your U.S. history – and what better time than the annual celebration of Presidents' Day? This year, turn the holiday into a fun and educational experience for both you and your children with a patriotic adventure to honor our presidents for their contributions while at the same time learning a thing or two about the job of president.

A History of Presidents' Day
The third Monday in February, also known as Presidents' Day, is a holiday to honor all past U.S. presidents; however, this was not always the case. Many may remember that prior to 1971, two days were celebrated: Feb. 12 to honor Abraham Lincoln and Feb. 22 to honor George Washington. In 1971, President Richard Nixon declared one holiday, instead of two.

Patriotic Day Trip
A day trip centered on a governmental theme can uncover many new and exciting ways to celebrate Presidents' Day. Teri J. Brown, author of Day Tripping: Your Guide to Educational Family Adventures (Champion Press, 2003), recommends taking a day trip to initiate interest in the subject.

"One of the best ways to help a child become involved in a topic they have no interest in is to create a day trip that will spark their interest," says Brown. "Day trips bring subjects and topics to life. It gives children something they can see, do and touch. It is much easier for children to make learning connections if it is in front of them."

For your patriotic day trip, consider traveling to your state's Capitol. Touring the Capitol building can give you and your children a better understanding of governmental proceedings in your area. "You can explain to them that the state Capitol is where the state is run, and the U.S. Capitol is very similar, only it is where the country is run," says Brown. "Many children will be able to make the connection quite easily, and you never know where the conversation will take you!"

For more information on your state's Capitol and tour dates, visit www.50states.com

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