Vietnam War: A Story for Brave Kids

April 5, 2024 | History | 0 comments

Did you know that the Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, making it one of the longest conflicts in modern history? This impactful war involved not only military combat but also political tensions and social unrest.

Explaining such a complex and significant event to a child may seem daunting. However, it is crucial for children to learn about the Vietnam War and its lasting effects. By using age-appropriate resources and strategies, we can help children understand the key aspects of this historical chapter.

Key Takeaways:

  • Teaching children about the Vietnam War requires an age-appropriate approach.
  • Non-fiction and fiction books can present simplified yet comprehensive information about the war.
  • Movies and documentaries provide visual representations of the war and its impact.
  • Picture books honor the sacrifices of veterans and introduce the concept of war to younger children.
  • Personal stories and memoirs offer unique perspectives on the Vietnam War.

Vietnam War Books: Non-Fiction

Non-fiction books can provide children with a comprehensive understanding of the Vietnam War while presenting the information in a simplified manner. By exploring these books, young readers can learn about the war’s key facts and gain insight into the experiences of real-life heroes.

“Vietnam War Heroes: 10 True Tales” by Allan Zullo is a recommended non-fiction book for young readers. It tells the stories of ten individuals who demonstrated courage and bravery during the Vietnam War. By highlighting the heroic actions of these individuals, the book allows children to connect with the personal stories of those involved in the conflict.

“Courageous Women of the Vietnam War” by Kathryn J. Atwood is another excellent choice for young readers. This book sheds light on the contributions and sacrifices made by women during the war. It offers a different perspective and teaches children about the diverse roles played by women in history.

“What was the Vietnam War?” from the “Who Was?” series provides a well-rounded perspective on the conflict. This book breaks down the key events and players of the war in a way that young readers can understand. It is a great resource for introducing the Vietnam War to children and answering their questions about this significant historical event.

“The Vietnam War: A Step Into History” by Steven Otfinoski delves into the war itself and its impact on the United States. Through concise and informative storytelling, this book offers young readers a comprehensive overview of the Vietnam War, including its causes, key events, and aftermath.

These non-fiction books provide a simple and engaging introduction to the Vietnam War. By reading these books, children can gain valuable knowledge and understanding of this significant chapter in history.

Vietnam War Books: Fiction

Fiction books can be an engaging and valuable resource for introducing the Vietnam War to children. These books provide an opportunity for young readers to explore the war through the eyes of fictional characters, making it easier for them to understand and relate to the historical events. Here are some recommended fiction books that simplify the Vietnam War for kids and help introduce this significant historical period:

“My Name Is America: The Journal Of Patrick Seamus Flaherty” by Ellen Emerson White

This book allows readers to follow the story of Patrick Seamus Flaherty, a young boy who joins the fight against communism in Vietnam. Through Patrick’s journal entries, children can gain a deeper understanding of the war and its impact on individuals.

“Inside Out and Back Again” and “Listen, Slowly” by Thanhha Lai

These books offer a unique perspective on the Vietnam War through the eyes of Vietnamese protagonists. “Inside Out and Back Again” tells the story of Ha, a young girl who flees Vietnam with her family, while “Listen, Slowly” follows Mai, a Vietnamese American girl who travels to Vietnam to learn more about her culture.

“The Vietnam Series” by Chris Lynch

This series explores the experiences of four friends who join different branches of the military during the Vietnam War. Each book in the series focuses on a different character, providing readers with diverse perspectives on the war.

“The Wednesday Wars” by Gary Schmidt

“The Wednesday Wars” takes a different approach by exploring the impact of the Vietnam War on the home front. Set in the 1960s, the book follows the story of seventh-grader Holling Hoodhood as he navigates the challenges of school and family against the backdrop of the war.

These fiction books offer children a chance to step into the shoes of characters affected by the Vietnam War, making the historical events more accessible and relatable. By engaging young readers’ imagination and emotions, these books can help introduce the Vietnam War in a way that is simplified and suitable for kids.

Movies and Documentaries

Movies and documentaries can be powerful tools for teaching children about the Vietnam War. These visual mediums provide an immersive experience that helps children understand the historical context, the experiences of individuals involved, and the impact of the war on society.

An excellent documentary to introduce children to the Vietnam War is “Little Dieter Needs to Fly”. This documentary tells the captivating story of Dieter Dengler, a U.S. Navy pilot who was captured and held as a prisoner of war in Laos. Through his extraordinary journey and determination, children can learn about the challenges faced by soldiers during the war.

Another recommended movie is “Rescue Dawn”, which is based on Dieter Dengler’s story. This gripping film portrays Dengler’s harrowing escape from a POW camp and showcases his resilience and bravery. It offers a compelling visual representation of the Vietnam War and its impact on individuals.

By watching these movies and documentaries, children can gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War, its historical significance, and the experiences of those involved.

Picture Books on Veterans Day

Picture books are a great way to introduce younger children to the concept of war and honor the sacrifices made by veterans. These books not only educate children about the Vietnam War but also instill a sense of patriotism and appreciation for those who have served our country.

Books that honor military service

These picture books explore different aspects of military service and emphasize the importance of honoring those who have served.

  1. Twenty One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld
    This book tells the story of the soldiers who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the significance of their solemn duty.
  2. Tuesday Tucks Me In by Luis Carlos Montalván
    This heartwarming book follows the life of a service dog named Tuesday and his veteran owner, highlighting the bond between them.
  3. America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven
    Through the eyes of a young girl, this book explores the tradition of setting a white table to honor missing or fallen soldiers during Veterans Day.

Celebrating military families

These picture books celebrate the bravery and love of military families, providing a glimpse into their experiences during the Vietnam War.

  • Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin
    This book celebrates the strength and sacrifice of military mothers who play vital roles in protecting our country.
  • My Red Balloon by Eve Bunting
    Through the story of a young boy participating in a Veterans Day parade, this book honors the courage and resilience of military families.

These picture books provide children with a tangible connection to the Vietnam War, helping them understand the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. They serve as a reminder to appreciate and honor those who have served our country.

Talking to kids about Vietnam War

Personal Stories and Memoirs

Personal stories and memoirs provide a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. They offer firsthand accounts and personal experiences that can help children connect with the events and emotions of this historical period. Three notable books in this genre are:

“Year of the Jungle: Memories from the Home Front” by Suzanne Collins

In this memoir, Suzanne Collins, the author of the famous “Hunger Games” series, shares her childhood memories of her father’s deployment to Vietnam. Through a series of personal anecdotes and illustrations, she explores the impact of the war on her family and how it shaped her perspective as a child.

“Letters to a Soldier”

Featuring actual letters from fourth-grade students to a soldier serving in Iraq, “Letters to a Soldier” offers a poignant glimpse into the thoughts and questions of children with deployed family members. This collection of heartfelt letters not only reflects the children’s curiosity about the soldier’s experiences but also reveals their genuine empathy and support.

“Crow Call” by Lois Lowry

“Crow Call” is a personal narrative by Lois Lowry, the acclaimed children’s author. The book tells a story of a young girl reconnecting with her father after his service in World War II. Although the war in question is different from the Vietnam War, the emotions and themes explored in the book can resonate with children trying to understand their own family’s connection to military service.

These personal stories and memoirs provide children with a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War through individual experiences and emotions. They offer a valuable perspective that complements the historical facts and accounts found in non-fiction books and documentaries.

Patriotic Books for Young Readers

Patriotic books play a vital role in teaching children about the Vietnam War and instilling a sense of pride and respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel. These books provide young readers with valuable insights into the significance of patriotism and the various ways it can be expressed. Here are some recommended patriotic books for young readers:

“The Impossible Patriotism Project” by Linda Skeers

This book emphasizes the importance of patriotism and encourages children to explore different ways to express their love for their country. Through relatable characters and engaging storytelling, “The Impossible Patriotism Project” inspires young readers to reflect on what it means to be a patriot.

“The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and her tribute to veterans” by Barbara Walsh

Introduce children to the tradition of wearing poppies to honor fallen service members with “The Poppy Lady.” This heartwarming book tells the inspiring true story of Moina Belle Michael, who played a crucial role in establishing the symbolic significance of poppies in remembrance of veterans.

“Brave Like Me” by Barbara Kerley

Celebrating the diverse roles of mothers serving in the military, “Brave Like Me” highlights the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of women in uniform. Through beautiful illustrations and powerful storytelling, this book encourages young readers to appreciate the dedication and bravery of military moms.

These patriotic books not only educate children about the Vietnam War but also nurture a sense of patriotism and gratitude for those who serve their country.

Teaching children about Vietnam War

Conclusion

Explaining the Vietnam War to children requires a thoughtful approach that considers their age and understanding. By using a combination of non-fiction and fiction books, movies, and personal stories, we can provide children with a comprehensive yet simplified overview of this significant historical event.

Additionally, instilling a sense of patriotism and honoring the sacrifices made by veterans through picture books and stories can help children develop a deeper appreciation for our nation’s history. By engaging children with age-appropriate resources and narratives, we can foster a sense of curiosity, empathy, and understanding when it comes to the Vietnam War.

Teaching children about the Vietnam War is not just about sharing historical facts, but also about promoting critical thinking and empathy. By equipping children with a foundational understanding of this pivotal moment in history, we can inspire them to become compassionate and informed global citizens.

FAQ

How can I explain the Vietnam War to a child?

There are several resources available to help explain the Vietnam War to children. Non-fiction books, such as “Vietnam War Heroes: 10 True Tales” and “What was the Vietnam War?” provide simplified explanations. Fiction books like “Inside Out and Back Again” and “The Wednesday Wars” offer engaging stories set during the war. Movies like “Little Dieter Needs to Fly” and “Rescue Dawn” provide visual representations, while picture books like “Twenty One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” introduce younger children to the concept of war.

What are some recommended non-fiction books about the Vietnam War for kids?

“Vietnam War Heroes: 10 True Tales” by Allan Zullo, “Courageous Women of the Vietnam War” by Kathryn J. Atwood, “What was the Vietnam War?” from the “Who Was?” series, and “The Vietnam War: A Step Into History” by Steven Otfinoski are all suitable non-fiction books that provide simplified explanations of the Vietnam War for young readers.

Are there any fiction books that can help introduce the Vietnam War to children?

Yes, there are fiction books that can engage children while introducing them to the Vietnam War. Examples include “My Name Is America: The Journal Of Patrick Seamus Flaherty” which follows the story of a young boy who joins the fight against communism in Vietnam, “Inside Out and Back Again” and “Listen, Slowly” by Thanhhà Lai which offer a unique perspective through the eyes of Vietnamese protagonists, and the “Vietnam Series” by Chris Lynch which explores the experiences of four friends who join different branches of the military.

Are there any movies or documentaries that can help in teaching children about the Vietnam War?

Yes, there are movies and documentaries that offer a visual representation of the Vietnam War. “Little Dieter Needs to Fly” is a documentary that tells the story of U.S. Navy pilot Dieter Dengler, while “Rescue Dawn” is a film based on Dengler’s story and depicts his escape from a POW camp.

Are there any picture books about veterans that can help children understand the Vietnam War?

Yes, there are picture books that can help introduce younger children to the concept of war and honor the sacrifices made by veterans. “Twenty One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” by Jeff Gottesfeld, “Tuesday Tucks Me In” by Luis Carlos Montalván, and “America’s White Table” by Margot Theis Raven are all examples that explore different aspects of military service and the importance of honoring those who have served.

Are there any personal stories or memoirs about the Vietnam War that are suitable for children?

Yes, there are personal stories and memoirs that provide a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. “Year of the Jungle: Memories from the Home Front” by Suzanne Collins recounts her childhood memories of her father’s deployment to Vietnam, “Letters to a Soldier” features actual letters from fourth-grade students to a soldier serving in Iraq, and “Crow Call” by Lois Lowry is a personal narrative about reconnecting with a father after his service in World War II.

Are there any patriotic books for young readers that can help teach them about the Vietnam War?

Yes, there are patriotic books that can instill a sense of pride and respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel. “The Impossible Patriotism Project” by Linda Skeers emphasizes the importance of patriotism, “The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and her tribute to veterans” by Barbara Walsh introduces children to the tradition of wearing poppies to honor fallen service members, and “Brave Like Me” by Barbara Kerley celebrates the diverse roles of mothers serving in the military.

What resources can help me introduce the Vietnam War to children?

To introduce the Vietnam War to children, you can use a combination of non-fiction and fiction books, movies, and personal stories. Picture books and stories about veterans can also help children develop a deeper appreciation for our nation’s history and the sacrifices made by veterans.

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