Explaining ANZAC Day

Commemorated on the 25^th of April ANZAC Day is one of the most important national occasions in Australia. Learning about ANZAC Day helps young children to understand the history and identity of Australia and its people. The dawn service and marches have become such an integral part of our culture and it gives us an opportunity to talk to children about the importance of ANZAC Day as well as the features of the ANZAC and how they have shaped Australia’s identity.

This year is the 107^th anniversary of the first landing of troops in Gallipoli, and while discussing this topic with younger children and toddlers can prove challenging there is a plethora of resources available to help increase their understanding from a young age.

Young learners are incredibly astute of the world around them and will recognize that Anzac Day is significant. Children are naturally curious so let them ask the questions. Be open to their ideas on what they think it was about and keep it simple. Focus on the collective pride and the spirit of the ANZAC’s, who showed courage, mateship and sacrifice. Another key idea to focus on is caring for others and promote the idea of peace.

Books are a great way for children to safely learn about important topics. Simpson and His Donkey by Mark Greenwood, is about a man by the name of John Simpson Kirkpatrick and how he used a donkey to transport wounded soldiers’ day and night as they fought in Monash Valley to the beach on Anzac Cove. Other books about Anzac Day that include:

• Anzac Ted by Belinda Landsberry.
• An Anzac’s Tale by Ruth Starke.
• My Grandad Marches on Anzac Day by Catriona Hoy.

Numbers can be overwhelming, especially for young children who learn how many soldiers lost their lives. Explain that this is why we live in such a peaceful place today; how thankful we are to them.

For children, attending or watching a dawn service may also be appropriate viewing the national telecasts can allow them to see the collective pride of the community.

Other ways to commemorate can include:

• Baking some ANZAC treats.
• Planting a Rosemary bush.
• Have a moment of silence in honour of those who fought so hard for our freedom, holding hands as a unity.

Our local community events from the Kedron-Wavell Services Club include:

5:30 am Dawn Service at Lutwyche Cemetery

ANZAC Day March

7:45 am March runs from Chermside Historical Precinct to Kedron-Wavell Services Club, Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside

8:30 am Commemoration Service at Kedron-Wavell Services Club, Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside

Talking about ANZAC Day with children ensures that stories about Australia’s heroes and history are passed down to the next generation. It also allows young learners to better understand the value and need for peace. Learning about the ANZAC’s increases their understanding of geography- by discussing other countries- culture and identity. Younger children may not understand everything this year, which is normal and okay! It’s a big concept to get your head around. Keep up the traditions and conversations and each year they will understand more.

Sources:
https://aussiechildcarenetwork.com.au/articles/teaching-children/teaching-children-about-anzac-day
https://www.brisbanekids.com.au/tips-for-explaining-anzac-day-to-toddlers
Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub-Branch Inc www.kwrsl.org.au/commemoration/anzac-day/