Circle time often includes stories. On Memorial Day, children's stories that talk about Memorial Day, or why Americans celebrate Memorial Day, are appropriate. Some books that can be read include "Memorial Day Surprise" by Theresa Golding or "Memorial Day" by Christin Ditchfield. "Memorial Day" is a history of Memorial Day written for preschool through lower elementary aged children. "Memorial Day Surprise" is a fiction book that is geared toward ages 3 and up. It is a story of a young boy who is surprised to see his grandfather in a Memorial Day Parade.
Circle time also includes singing. On Memorial Day, teach children patriotic songs that will help students honor the soldiers who have fallen during military service. There are songs that are set to familiar tunes for preschoolers, such as "History," sung to the tune of "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," and "Down by the Flagpole," sung to "Down by the Station." This makes the songs easy to learn and entertains the children. One Memorial Day song can be taught to the tune of "On Top of Old Smokey":
"Memorial Day, last Monday of May
A day to remember the soldiers so brave,
who laid down their lives that we may be free
Who paid a great price for our liberty."
Memorial Day remembers veterans. This is a good time to show children where U.S. veterans have fought. With a globe or a map, point out the countries that soldiers have fought in. This includes areas like Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in the United States, and Germany and France in Europe, as well as any other areas where United States soldiers have fought.
Have children dress up for circle time. They can dress up as little soldiers and march through the classroom, just as veterans do on Memorial day. Teach them that the day is about honoring those who have lost their lives serving our country. Children can also sing patriotic songs as they march, such as the national anthem.