Patriot Day is a significant day of remembrance, and introducing it to our little learners can feel tricky. We want it to be done thoughtfully. One way to do this is through carefully chosen Patriot Day read alouds. Using stories that explain the importance of unity, bravery, and compassion helps students understand this important day in American history. Today, I will share three powerful books—This Very Tree, Fireboat, and 14 Cows for America—and how they can be used for your Patriot Day activities with kindergarten and 1st grade students.
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This Very Tree tells the story of a Callery pear tree that stood in the plaza between the Twin Towers and survived the day. It soon became a symbol of resilience and hope. The story is told from the perspective of a tree. It focuses on recovery and growth and is a gentle and meaningful way to discuss the day.
A fireboat? Who knew they existed? Fireboat is the true story of a retired fireboat that was called back into service on 9/11. This story shares the bravery of ordinary people like you and me who came together to help during a tough time. It’s a great way to discuss heroism and the strength of a community coming together during a time of need.
14 Cows for America tells the heartwarming story of a Maasai village in Kenya. This group of people heard of the tragic event on 9/11 and sent a gift of 14 cows to the United States. For this village, this is a true gesture of compassion. This story introduces students to empathy and the power of kindness across cultures and continents.
If you are looking for a done-for-you read aloud lesson to add to your set of Patriot Day activities, I have a ready-to-go reading comprehension lesson for This Very Tree.
Get it HERE on TeachersPayTeachers.
Join The Read Aloud Library Membership and get it HERE.
If you want a wonderful, kid-appropriate video to introduce Patriot Day, check out this video on YouTube.
Using read alouds with your Patriot Day activities provides a sensitive, gentle, and age-appropriate way to introduce the concept of Patriot Day to our little learners. I read each of these books with my own 1st grader, and we had rich conversations. Each read aloud offers opportunities for valuable lessons on resilience, heroism, and compassion. This helps our children grasp the significance of this day that many of us will never forget.
I’m a K-1 teacher who is passionate about making lessons your students love and that are easy to implement for teachers. Helping teachers like you navigate their way through their literacy block brings me great joy. I am a lifelong learner who loves staying on top of current literacy learning and practices. Here, you’ll find the tools you need to move your K-2 students forward!
