Crafts help young children express themselves creatively and gain self-confidence. Print out patriotic images for the preschool class to color, finger paint and decorate. Create a large collage and paste all the pictures on it. You might want to hang the collage on a wall in the classroom. Another activity is to make flag headbands. Let the children draw and paint their own flags. Help them glue them onto a stick and to a headband to wear.
Reading is the best way to teach children about patriotism and U.S. history. Read to the class short and colorful books about the flag and patriotic holidays. Stop often to discuss the story and the pictures and answer questions. Have the class discuss the book once you finish reading it. You can also give your preschool class time during the day to read and look at patriotic books by themselves quietly.
The flag is an important patriotic symbol, and children can learn early what it means. Discuss the symbols in the flag, such as the stars and the colors. Answer questions the children have about this topic. Read the Pledge of Alliance to the class and explain in simple terms what it means. Help the children memorize it if they are old enough, and teach them to be respectful when reciting it.
Most young children recognize "The Star-Spangled Banner" when they hear the song, but it's important for them to learn the history behind the national anthem and its meaning. If the class is learning to read, give them copies of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and help them read it out loud. Explain in simple terms what it means. Play or sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" and have the preschool class march to it and play band instruments.