How to make learning about the world wars interesting.
Getting youngsters interested in history can be a challenge. To a child, an hour can seem like an age, so trying to get your little ones to relate to events that happened decades or even centuries ago is not easy. There are ways to interest young minds in past events though. For example, if you want your kids to learn about the World Wars, the following top tips could help.
Make the most of the array of resources on offer
Firstly, it’s important to introduce them to a range of learning resources, and the more engaging and interesting the materials are, the better. Getting hold of these supplies may be easier than you think. Bear in mind that you can access a variety of resources over the web. For example, the BBC offers a series of interactive guides, videos, poems and more online.
Books can be excellent learning aids too. Llook out for tomes that feature plenty of photos and illustrations. Britain in the Blitz, which is available from the RAF museum shop, is a good example. It relays the stories of the air raids that caused havoc over many parts of the UK during World War II and as well as having lots of images and details of first-hand accounts, it comes with a CD of wartime memories and music.
Take a trip to a museum
Another tip is to make trips to the country’s war museums. Seeing artefacts and displays in person can fire children’s imaginations and make them more eager to learn. The Imperial War Museums in London, Manchester and Duxford are good examples. They are home to an array of cultural, technical, political and personal artefacts that relate to Britain’s 20th century conflicts. As well as material that has been commissioned for military or official purposes, the museums showcase the personal responses of eye-witnesses to the dramatic events that unfolded during the wars.
The Royal Air Force Museums in London and Cosford are well worth checking out too. They combine education and entertainment, with highlights including a 3D cinema and a sound and light show.
Retrace the steps of soldiers
You can also bring history to life by retracing the steps of soldiers in the conflicts. This is the best way to encourage kids to build an emotional connection with the World Wars. There are a range of former battlefield sites to visit across the continent and you can arrange in-depth guided tours. For example, you can book your family on tours of the battlefields of the Somme and Flanders from World War I, exploring preserved trenches, crater-scarred conflict zones and memorials.
It might take a little imagination and effort, but by following advice like this, you can make learning about the World Wars fascinating for your youngsters.
Disclaimer: this is a collaborative guest post.
