by Dawn Rutt

Created on: August 05, 2010

In 1882 about 10,000 workers gathered in New York to attend the first Labor Day Parade. They then joined their families in Wendel’s Elm Park for concerts, speeches and a picnic. This first Labor Day celebration was organized by a group of representatives from many different unions known as New York’s Central Labor Union. In 1892, Labor Day became a National Holiday.

Labor Day is the first Monday in September and is dedicated to the achievements of the American workers. It is a popular time for families to get together and take a trip or go camping before the inevitable return of fall. Even for those who are not planning on traveling, there are a lot family fun, kid friendly ways to celebrate the holiday.

Crafts and Activities

Maybe you have a young princess in the house? Teach her patriotism with a touch of glamor and make believe! Make a Labor Day Wand!

    Supplies:     Red, white and blue card stock
                          Stick or dowel
                          Thin red, white and blue ribbons or streamers
                          Glue
                          Tape

Cut three stars from the card stock: one large, one medium and one small star.  Glue one on top of the other. Secure to the dowel. Finish by cutting lengths of the ribbons and attach them to the back of the star. And voila! Your patriotic princess is ready to lead the parade.

 Maybe your rough-and-tumble boy are more interested in bugs. So try this! Or this!

For older kids, the U.S. Census Bureau offers some fun educational quizzes in the spirit of Labor Day. Help your children learn a little bit about the history and the current state of affairs of the country we live in. See how many questions you can answer! You never know, maybe your children can teach you a little something!

Even if you're not planning traveling over the 3-day weekend, definitely take advantage of the time and  spend it with your family. Get out the glue and ribbon and gather around the table. Celebrate Labor Day with some fun crafts!

Sources:

Education World, Accessed August 5, 2010

Kid's Crafts, Accessed August 5, 2010

Labor Day, Accessed August 5, 2010

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