Happy Presidents’ Day! Today is set aside to honor all those who have held the position of President of the United States. It’s also a great time to teach your child about the history of the United States and about our nation’s leaders!

Presidents’ Day Facts for Children

• Presidents’ Day was established in 1885 to honor George Washington, whose birthday fell on February 22^nd.
• In 1971, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved Presidents’ Day from Washington’s actual birthday to the third Monday in February.
• Some calendars show this day as “Washington’s Birthday” and does not show it as Presidents’ Day.
• On George Washington’s Birthday every year, the United States Senate reads George Washington’s’ farewell address.

What does your child know about George Washington? 

• Why is George Washington important to American History? George Washington was the first President of the United States and served in that capacity from April 30, 1789 – March 4, 1791.
• He is still the only president in our nation’s history to have been unanimously elected President by the Electoral College.
• Why do presidents only serve two-terms? George Washington created a precedent by refusing to serve a third term as President of the United States.
• George Washington started his education at the age of six but had to drop out at the age of 15. He became a surveyor because his mother could not send him to college.

Resources to Assist Parents in Teaching Children About Presidents’ Day

• Take a virtual tour of the White House.
• Visit Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate.
• Check out some additional presidential fun facts.

Sources

History.com
MountVernon.org
Scholastic.com
ConstitutionCenter.org
Babble.com