Move, Play, Remember: Meaningful Memorial Day Activities for Families

Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer, it's a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. And while it’s often a day filled with backyard barbecues and time off, it’s also a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about gratitude, service, and togetherness in ways that are both meaningful and fun.

At Bolder Play, we believe in the power of movement and connection. Here are some Memorial Day activity ideas that blend active play with family bonding and a chance to reflect on what the holiday truly means.

1. Host a Backyard “Red, White & Play” Challenge

Create an outdoor obstacle course or ninja-style adventure using your favorite Bolder Play gear, like the Slackers Ninjaline, Swingline, or Tree Climbers. Add patriotic flair by decorating stations with red, white, and blue streamers or flags.

You can even turn it into a family team challenge and give kids a fun mission at each stop, like a mini American history trivia question or a quick gratitude prompt (e.g., “Name one thing you’re thankful for about our country”)!

2. Family Flag Walk or Neighborhood Parade

Get outside for a family walk or bike ride while waving mini flags or wearing red, white, and blue. If you have other families nearby, invite them to join in for a mini Memorial Day parade.

For extra fun, let the kids decorate their bikes or wagons and take turns leading the “parade.” End your route at a local park or backyard picnic with room for play, don’t forget your Tri-Flyer for races and relays!

3. Memorial Day Acts of Service

In honor of those who have served, encourage your family to take on a small act of service:

• Leave thank-you notes or care packages on the doorstep of a veteran or active-duty neighbor.
  

• Plant flags or flowers at a local memorial or cemetery.
  

• Donate gently used toys or clothes to a military family organization.
  
  

Helping others as a family builds empathy and gratitude, two values that are at the heart of Memorial Day.

4. Backyard Picnic & Story Time

Set up a patriotic picnic in your yard or at a local park. After lunch, take time to read a short story or watch a short video about the meaning of Memorial Day. For younger kids, talk about the importance of honoring heroes and remembering people who helped protect others.

Then, get back to playing! Let the kids run wild with a StairSlide, challenge their balance with Stepping Stones, or play a game of Wicket Kick in the yard.

5. A Moment of Movement + Silence

Memorial Day is often observed with a moment of silence. Take this tradition and make it meaningful for your family by pairing it with a moment of movement.

For example:

• Start with a simple flag-raising or a few stretches in the backyard.
  

• Share a moment of silence together to reflect.
  

• Then invite everyone to “celebrate the freedom we’re grateful for” by choosing their favorite way to move, swing, slide, climb, or dance it out in the grass.
  
  

Play with Purpose This Memorial Day

Children may not completely comprehend the significance of Memorial Day, but they can certainly learn the virtues it stands for: bravery, thankfulness, and community. You may combine important moments that strengthen your family bonds with physical enjoyment if you're a bit creative.

Whether you're swinging, sliding, climbing, or just lounging in the sun, remember those who made it possible and play with heart and purpose.

From all of us at Bolder Play, we honor and thank the heroes we remember this Memorial Day. ❤️💙