Anzac Day Activities for Young Learners

Last week at Oz Education Early Learning Centres, we involved our young learners in a series of Anzac Day activities and early learning experiences centred around the day. Through the engaging book “Lest We Forget,” the children explored the significance of this day to foster a respectful understanding. Our preschoolers expressed their creativity by crafting exquisite crayon and watercolour artworks, drawing inspiration from poppies and rosemary. Additionally, they participated in baking ANZAC biscuits, deepening their appreciation of their historical importance.

These meaningful experiences allowed children to engage with Anzac Day in a gentle and thoughtful way, helping them develop early understanding of remembrance, respect and gratitude. Through storytelling, creative expression and shared activities, our learners were supported to explore history in a way that was relevant to their age and experiences, while strengthening their sense of identity, community and belonging.

Our young learners engaged in the reading “Lest We Forget,” a beautiful, age-appropriate story introducing the significance of ANZAC Day followed by thoughtful, hands-on activities to explore the meaning of Anzac Day. In the Platypus Baby room, our youngest learners experienced a sensory rice activity featuring vibrant red rice and fresh rosemary, stimulating sight, smell, and touch. Meanwhile, fresh rosemary was picked and mixed into playdough in the Lizard Preschool room, revealing new textures and scents with every squish. These meaningful moments helped the little ones connect with ANZAC Day respectfully and engagingly.

Freshly baked ANZAC biscuits came out of the oven as our little chefs rolled up their sleeves to make these golden, crunchy treats alongside friends and educators. We began by learning about the significance of this special day and why ANZAC biscuits hold a cherished place in history. Then, it was time to mix, measure, stir, and perhaps sneak a sniff or two, as we crafted our batch from scratch. This fun, hands-on experience allowed us to explore tradition, teamwork, and shared history – and the biscuits smelled amazing.

Our young artists also embarked on a creative journey. They drew inspiration from beautiful photos of poppies and rosemary to create their versions using crayons. As they applied watercolours over their artwork, the magic unfolded: their fabulous drawings emerged, with the watercolours gracefully avoiding the crayon, making each piece truly unique and magical. Witnessing their incredible creations brought joy and discovery to every brushstroke. 

Oz Education early learners also immersed themselves in meaningful ANZAC Day slouch hat crafts, honouring the spirit of remembrance. They used paper plates, glue, and poppy flowers, enhancing their fine motor skills while fostering respect for those who served. Additionally, they engaged with a sensory bin filled with stones painted with ANZAC symbols such as poppies and soldiers, encouraging tactile exploration and storytelling. Preschoolers participated in a sensory bin activity filled with red pom-poms, flowers, and stones, helping them understand ANZAC symbols and traditions, promoting sensory learning and fine motor skill development. These activities inspired a sense of identity, belonging, and learning, reflecting on the rich history and values of this commemorative day. Learn More

At Oz Education, we understand the challenges of early parenting. That is why we are committed to supporting both yourself and your family through this transformative phase. With expertise and a nurturing approach we are here to provide guidance, answering questions and providing child care focused on fostering little ones through their many learning and developmental milestones. Feel free to visit our Early Learning Centres by booking a tour with us to explore further care and support options through this exciting time.