How to Explain Armed Forces Day to Children

Armed Forces Day is a special day set aside to honor and show appreciation to the brave men and women who serve in the armed forces of a country, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. Here are some ways to explain it to children:

Introduce the concept: Start by explaining that there are people who work very hard to keep our country safe and free. These people are called the armed forces, and they include soldiers, sailors, pilots, and many others.
Talk about what they do: Explain that members of the armed forces work together to protect our country from harm, defend our freedoms, and help people in need around the world.
Discuss why we celebrate them: Tell your child that we celebrate Armed Forces Day to thank and honor these brave men and women for their service and sacrifices. It’s a way for us to show our appreciation for all they do to keep us safe.
Share some fun facts: You can share some fun facts about the armed forces, such as the different branches of the military, the types of weapons and vehicles they use, and the important missions they carry out.
Express gratitude: Encourage your child to show their appreciation in their own way, such as making a card or sending a message to a family member or friend who serves in the military, or by participating in a local Armed Forces Day celebration.

Remember to keep the explanation age-appropriate and use language that your child can understand. It’s also important to emphasize the positive aspects of the armed forces and their service to our country.

About the Author: Yvonne Wonder

Yvonne Wonder is an author, entrepreneur, and founder of Destination Sitters, LLC, a national babysitting referral service supporting traveling families across 21 U.S. cities. With more than 35 years of entrepreneurial experience—and 17 years dedicated to childcare in the travel sector—Yvonne brings a unique blend of expertise, creativity, and heart to everything she writes. She is the author of Mrs. Claus Saves Christmas, The Top 5 Tricks to Traveling With Kids That Will Change Your Life, and 26 Comfort Foods & Their History for Kids in the Kitchen. As a mom, she writes with warmth, real-world insight, and a deep belief that family moments matter most—whether at home or on the road. Through her leadership at Destination Sitters, Yvonne works with 6K+ hotels, wedding planners, and event professionals nationwide, all with one mission in mind: giving parents peace of mind while their children are cared for safely, joyfully, and professionally during travel.