In discussions about Remembrance Day, we talked about what peace means to each of us. We talked about how lucky we are to live in a country such as Canada. Students were asked to reflect on what they are grateful for in their lives.
We had a virtual school assembly today. We stood and paused for a moment of silence to honour and remember the men and women who have served and continue to serve Canada in times of conflict and peace.
During the assembly, two of our students brought our class wreath to the gym, as part of the wreath ceremony. We created our poppies by stamping red paint with a heart shaped sponge, and then adding buttons!
While it is not always easy to talk about Canadian history and war with young children, Remembrance Day presents a good opportunity to recognize the courage of those who served for our country. In class, we talked about the significance of wearing a poppy and about peace – what peace looks like, sounds like, and feels like. We can give our children a reason to work towards a more peaceful world.
Here are some comments from the students:
“Peace is going to the playground.”
“Peace is sharing our toys.”
“Peace is feeling safe in school.”
*More comments will be available in students’ e-portfolios.
This is a great book for young children: The Peace Book by Todd Parr
The kindergarten and grade one students in Div. 8 & 9 did a wonderful job reciting this Remembrance Day poem at the school assembly. Thank you to parents for helping your child practice the lines at home.
Poppy Poppy
Poppy Poppy, what do you say?
Wear me on Remembrance Day.
Poppy Poppy, what do you tell?
Many soldiers in battle fell.
Poppy Poppy, what should we know?
That peace on Earth should grow, grow, grow.
Poppy, we are but children small,
We are too little to do it all.
Children, you may do your part.
Love each other is how you start.
Play without fighting.
Share your games and toys.
Be kind and thoughtful,
To all girls and boys.
3D poppies on our class wreath; each class created a wreath for the assembly
