ThinkabaraHow to make each craft
🌺 Paper poppy
- Print the color template, or print black and white on red paper (the leaves and stem on green).
- Cut out all seven pieces. Pinch the petals gently in the middle so they cup up.
- Glue the small petals on top of the big petals, then the black center on top.
- Glue the stem and leaves to the back. Add a safety pin to wear it, or glue it to a card.
✉️ Thank-you cards
- Print, cut the two cards apart on the dashed line, and color the black-and-white version.
- Write a short message: what you want to thank a veteran for.
- Sign with your first name. Glue onto colored cardstock for a sturdier card.
⭐ Star garland
- Print both garland pages. Cut out the eight letter stars.
- Punch the two small circles on each star (or use a sharp pencil with a grown-up’s help).
- Thread yarn or ribbon through the holes in order: T-H-A-N-K, a blank star, Y-O-U.
Talking with kids about Veterans Day
Veterans Day, November 11, honors everyone who has served in the US Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Space Force. For young children, keep it simple: “Veterans are people who were in the military. Today we say thank you to them.” Older kids can learn that the date comes from the end of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
A craft is a great way to make that thank-you real. Invite a grandparent or neighbor who served to the classroom, or deliver the cards together. Kids can also write about it with our November writing prompts.
Classroom tips
- Pre-cut for preschool. Prepare the poppy pieces in advance and let kids glue and decorate.
- Make one class garland where every student colors a star and writes their first name on the back.
- Check before sending cards to a VA hospital or veterans home — many have guidelines (no glitter, no last names).
Frequently asked questions
What is an easy Veterans Day craft for preschool?
The paper poppy is the easiest: cut out two red petal shapes, a black center and a green stem, then glue them in layers. Preschoolers can glue pre-cut pieces; older kids cut their own. The star garland is also simple — color, cut, punch two holes and string.
Why are poppies a symbol for veterans?
Red poppies grew on the World War I battlefields of Flanders, made famous by the 1915 poem “In Flanders Fields.” They became a symbol of remembrance. In the US, poppies are worn most around Memorial Day and many people also wear them on Veterans Day; in Canada and the UK they are worn for Remembrance Day on November 11.
What should kids write in a Veterans Day thank-you card?
Keep it simple and sincere: “Thank you for your service,” “Thank you for keeping our country safe,” or “Thank you for being brave.” Kids can add their first name and grade, but leave out last names and addresses if the cards go to people you do not know.
Where can we send Veterans Day cards?
Give them to family members or neighbors who served, bring them to a local VA medical center or veterans home (call ahead), or ask your local American Legion or VFW post if they collect cards for veterans.
When is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is November 11 every year. It honors everyone who has served in the US military. (Memorial Day, in May, honors those who died in service.) Read more on our Veterans Day for kids page.