Army Day at Home: 5 Simple Ways to Honor Our Soldiers with Your Kids

So, January 15 is here again. While most of us scroll through social media seeing parade videos from Jaipur, have you paused to think about what this day means? And how do you explain it to your kids without sounding like a textbook?

On January 15, 1949, Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, taking over from General Francis Butcher. Even after independence in 1947, a British officer was leading our army. This handover meant our country was truly in charge of its own defense.

This year marks the 78th Army Day, and for the first time ever, the parade is happening outside a military cantonment, in Jaipur, on Mahal Road, Jagatpura. According to the Press Information Bureau, the 2026 theme honors the "Tradition of Valour and Sacrifice" of our soldiers.

But what does this mean for us as parents? It's about remembering that while we're safe at home, soldiers are standing guard in freezing Siachen, scorching deserts, and dense forests, often away from their families for months. It's about passing that gratitude on to our kids in ways they'll actually remember.

This year's parade in Jaipur (happening on January 15, 2026) features Apache helicopters, BrahMos missiles, the 61st Cavalry, and the new Bhairav Battalion. Make it interactive, set up snacks, let kids ask questions, and turn it into a special event rather than just TV time. Even 15 minutes makes a difference.

Give kids paper and crayons to draw or write messages for soldiers. It could be "Thank you for keeping us safe" or a colorful flag drawing. The act of creating something with gratitude builds empathy. For toddlers, let them scribble and add stickers. Older kids can write thoughtful letters about what freedom means to them.

Kids connect with stories, not statistics. Share tales of bravery from Kargil, the 1971 War, or soldiers serving in extreme conditions. Talk about how they miss their children's birthdays to protect ours. Keep it age-appropriate; inspire respect without creating fear. A five-minute YouTube video about military dogs or training can spark genuine curiosity.

Make something basic like dal-rice or khichdi. While cooking, talk about how soldiers eat together in mess halls and don't always get fresh, hot food in remote areas. This isn't about deprivation; it's about appreciation. Kids who help cook are more likely to engage with the story behind the meal.

The simplest yet most powerful activity. Gather your family, light a candle, and observe one minute of silence to remember soldiers who've sacrificed their lives. Even little kids understand this. Say, "We're thinking about all the brave soldiers who keep us safe. We're saying thank you in our hearts."

For younger kids (8-12 years):

For teens (13+ years):

Watch with your kids. Pause for questions. Talk about what soldiers go through. These conversations matter more than the movie itself.

Teaching kids about Army Day isn't just about patriotism; it's about raising humans who understand sacrifice and appreciate what they have. In a world of instant everything, these activities remind children that safety and freedom are hard-won gifts, protected by real people who've chosen to put the country first.

Several soldiers were posthumously awarded the Sena Medal for Gallantry in 2025, meaning they gave their lives in service. Those aren't just headlines. They're families who lost someone. Children who grew up without a parent.

When we honor Army Day with our kids, we teach them that their comfort comes at a cost. And that's a lesson worth learning.

You don't need elaborate plans or perfect execution. Pick one or two activities. Do them genuinely. Talk honestly. Let your kids ask questions, be silly, get distracted, but also give them the chance to connect with something meaningful.

One day, they'll remember watching the parade together, making cards for soldiers, or lighting that candle. They might not recall every detail, but they'll remember you cared enough to teach them gratitude and respect.

This January 15, whether you watch the parade, make a card, or simply talk about what soldiers do, you're doing something that matters.

Jai Hind.