The 4th of July is a great time to teach your kids about the first Independence Day, so we’ve collected some interesting facts and fun crafts that you can share with them. Here are our picks for the top four easy Independence Day crafts your kids will love.
The original American flag displayed 13 stars in a circle so that each of the colonies would appear equal to each other. The 13 colonies are still represented on the modern day flag in the 13 red and white stripes. Show your 4th of July pride by hanging an authentic American flag on your front door or by making your own flag craft project! You and your kids can make a flag out of fruit skewers or out of paint sticks.
The “Star Spangled Banner” was adapted from a poem by Francis Scott Key, which he wrote during the War of 1812. After watching continued bombing of Baltimore’s Fort McHenry, he discovered that the British could not destroy the fort. Seeing the U.S. flag fly over the fort the next morning inspired him to write what he witnessed. His poem was later put to music, though not declared the official national anthem until 1931. In honor of the nation’s birthday and national anthem, why not decorate your yard in star-spangled fashion? You could even use chalk and adorn your driveway.
Every 4th of July the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped (not actually rung) thirteen times in honor of the original 13 colonies. Give these wind chimes something extra by adding bells to the twine hanger, and you’ll hear freedom ring!
Barbecue is big on Independence Day. Approximately 150 million hot dogs and 700 million pounds of chicken are consumed on this day! Make your cook-out as original as possible by using your favorite flavor potato chip to coat your chicken tenders. There are so many options to choose from!
Share your 4th of July facts, crafts, and any other activities you have planned in the comments below or on social media by visiting Learning Liftoff on Facebook or tag @K12Learn on Twitter and Instagram.