Watch video footage from September 11 that aired on the news with your child or students. Use your discretion to determine which footage is age-appropriate for the child. This step is recommended for middle school students and older who can handle the gravity of the visual images in the footage. Turn the video off at any time if children become unsettled by it.
Read the letter from former First Lady Laura Bush that she wrote to elementary school students to try and explain the events of that day (see ClassBrain.com). The letter is written at a level that elementary school children can understand without getting graphic.
Review the history of war in the Middle East and the conflicts with the United States that led up to the September 11 attacks. While nothing could ever make this day seem less terrible, understanding the previous wars and problems which led to 9/11 occurring can help children understand the true impact it had on America and the world. Include a history of al-Qaeda.
Create a piece of artwork with the children that can depict the events and show patriotism for your country. You can either work on one large piece or on separate pieces. If you work on the same piece you can help guide the artwork by inviting the kids to sketch things like American flags or fireworks.
If you draw your own piece, draw a simple scene of Ground Zero and start discussion about your art as a segue into explaining the events of September 11, 2001.
Teach lessons that relate to things learned out of September 11, such as liberty, tolerance, emergency preparedness and patriotism. During the discussion about what these words mean and how they are still relevant and important to us today, include examples where these characteristics either were or were not shown on September 11.
Write a letter with your child to a fireman, police officer or service member who volunteered in the September 11 aftermath. If you do not know anyone who served personally, contact your local fire or police stations to find out where to send letters to those who served.