I’m one of those people who happens to think that even with all of our challenges, the USA is still the best place to live. That can be debated somewhere else though. Today’s blog is all about making it a special day for your little princes and princesses without a big crowd or a lot of money.

Even in a non-pandemic year, our family is not much on crowded events where you have to fight for a spot to watch fireworks or concerts. For us, it’s a time to enjoy being with family and be thankful specifically for the freedoms we enjoy in America. This entails teaching all of the littlest members of the kingdom age-appropriate patriotism.

First, let’s talk fashion. We go deep and expensive-NOT! Find what you already own that is red, white or blue and rock that! Let the kids pick. If you are the mom that makes everyone where the yearly Old Navy red or blue, more power to you, but I usually can’t even get them to sit still long enough to take a decent family photo so that is not us. Make accessories with what you have around the house (or grab some from the after sales and save for next year!). We used forks dipped in red, white and/or blue paint on construction paper to make “fireworks” paintings. You could also use old toothbrushes or handprints. You’ll want to do these early so they have time to dry to use for decorations or gifts for grandma.

While your accessories and gifts are drying, let the kids go out and have a water fight with the hose or water squirters, water balloons, or just turn on the sprinkler. Crank up the American tunes. I find the brass band pieces to be particularly nostalgic and of course Lee Greenwood’s God Bless the USA. Watch the Independence day specials in Washington D.C. or one of the national parks.

Grill some hot dogs and let the kids pick their own chips or help make some fun dessert. Ice cream is my favorite Independence Day dessert, homemade or otherwise. Be sure to invite family or friends and spend some time being thankful for the freedoms someone fought and died for while you enjoy fun with your family. Pray for your nation, wherever you live. Pray for your local and national leaders. God Bless America!

Sparklers are fun for almost any age with close supervision and can be found at most stores close to New Year’s Eve or the Fourth of July. An average sized package has lasted us years.