America's patriotic season begins with Memorial Day in May, Flag Day in June, and Independence Day on the 4th of July. While kids are waiting for the parades and fireworks shows, they can start the celebration early with some educational ad entertaining printable coloring pages and activity sheets.
A Brief History of Independence Day
On July 4th, 1776, the United States of America signed the Declaration of Independence, formally declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Commonly known as the 4th of July, Independence Day is a national holiday celebrated with parades, fireworks, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, family get-togethers, and political ceremonies of all kinds.
Share a little 4th of July history with your kids via the following patriotic crafts, party decor, activities, games, and printable coloring pages.
Patriotic Paper Crafts and Home Decor for Kids
In her article on 4th of July Crafts, Mary McCarthy recommends: "Simply supplying kids with red, white and blue construction paper, craft foam, markers, glitter, ribbons, beads or buttons could create the most adorable patriotic decorations you could imagine. Tell kids you want to use their creations as decorations, and you will be pleasantly surprised at what their clever little minds can produce!"
For additional patriotic home decor, try these adorable paper star garlands, along with the many other creative paper toys and boxes that kids can make for themselves.
In Kelley Huston's article on wearable Independence Day crafts, she gives instructions for a red, white, and blue newspaper flag hat and painted patriotic t-shirts.
4th of July Printable Coloring Pages and Activity Sheets
Throw a birthday party for the USA. Visit the Coloring Castle for a collection of 4th of July coloring pages, including a:
- stars and stripes "1776,"
- "Happy Birthday, USA!,"
- a heart flag, and
- several other flag designs.
More of my favorite coloring page websites include:
- morecoloringpages.com,
- coloring-fun.com, and
- coloring-pages-kids.com.
Just look for "4th of July" in the Holiday sections. Each of these websites has a pretty good selection of patriotic coloring pages.
As firework time gets closer, go over Mandie Rowden's firework safety precautions for a safe and kid-friendly Independence Day. Rowden also provides instructions for pre-fireworks games: water balloon wars and field day races.
Now you're ready to go out and enjoy the festivities. If you're planning a summer road trip, check out these Printable Travel Games.
Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
Join the Conversation