A Memorial Day Craft of Remembrance

Memorial Day, it’s more than just the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time that we gather with friends and family and remember the brave men and women who gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy every day. Their courage, sacrifice, and selflessness remind us that liberty is never free—and for that, we are deeply thankful.

We have been taught to remember those that gave it all for each and every one of us. Let’s make it a point to find ways to pass on that gratitude to the next generation. You can use art to show your kids or grandkids that Memorial Day is not only for fun and games. It is also a time for solemn reflection. Help them learn to express their thankfulness through a meaningful remembrance to hang on the door or window or gift to someone they love.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a creative soul looking to honor the fallen in a heartfelt way, here’s a beautiful Memorial Day Craft Project that kids and adults alike can enjoy.

⭐ Memorial Day Poppy Wreath Craft ⭐

“A circle of remembrance, a symbol of honor.”

Why poppies?
Poppies have long been a symbol of remembrance, inspired by the famous World War I poem In Flanders Fields. Creating a poppy wreath is a simple yet powerful way to teach kids about the meaning of Memorial Day and honor those who gave their lives.

Materials:

• Red tissue paper or red construction paper
• Black buttons or paper circles
• Green construction paper or pipe cleaners
• A paper plate (cut out the center to form a wreath base)
• Glue or tape
• Scissors
• Ribbon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Poppies:
   Cut red paper into flower shapes or use tissue paper and scrunch it gently to form poppy petals. Glue a black button or circle in the center of each flower.
2. Create the Wreath Base:
   Cut out the center of a paper plate to form a ring. ( Or use anything you can find as a ring base.) Cover it with green paper or color it green.
3. Assemble:
   Glue the poppies around the wreath base. You can also add leaves made from green paper or pipe cleaners.
4. Add a Ribbon (Optional):
   Tie a ribbon to the top for hanging or add a small banner with words like “Thank You” or “We Remember.”

A Moment to Reflect

As you create your wreath, take a few moments to share stories or read about a service member who made the ultimate sacrifice. Talk about what freedom means, why we remember, and how gratitude can be shown in everyday ways. I like to also show my kids the photos of our family members who have served for our country. This makes it even more meaningful for them. If you do not have family members that have served, you can always pull up photos online of our brave soldiers to show your children. Photography makes it real and more relatable to kids.

Encourage your children to hang their wreaths in a window or on a door for many to see. They can also gift their wreaths to a neighbor/friend or take them to a retirement home.

Memorial Day is about memory, but it’s also about legacy. Let’s carry the stories forward with open hearts and hands ready to create something meaningful. May we never forget the cost of freedom—and may our gratitude always shine through.

To those who gave it all—we remember. We honor. We thank you.