February 19 Fact of the Day for Kids

Today, February 19, is a special day in the United States – it’s Presidents Day! This day is set aside to honor all U.S. presidents past and present, focusing especially on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthdays are in February. It’s a day filled with history, pride, and a great opportunity for learning. You can check out all of the Fact of the Day for kids here.

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT FEBRUARY 19

  • Presidents Day was originally established in 1885 to honor George Washington’s birthday.
  • The holiday became known as Presidents Day after it was moved as part of the 1971 Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which aimed to create more three-day weekends for workers.
  • Not only does Presidents Day honor George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, but it also recognizes all the men who have served as president.
  • The only president born on February 22nd, coinciding with the original celebration for Washington, was George Washington himself.
  • Some states celebrate this day by also honoring Thomas Jefferson, even though his birthday is in April.

ACTIVITY IDEAS TO CELEBRATE FEBRUARY 19

Celebrating Presidents Day can be both educational and fun with activities that engage students in learning about U.S. history and the role of the president. Here are some activities perfect for the classroom or school:

  • Create your own President’s Day word search or solve ours here.
  • Write letters to your favorite president and discuss what you admire about them.
  • Make presidential masks and have a parade.
  • Create a timeline of all U.S. presidents.
  • Have a trivia contest with facts about the presidents.
  • Read a book or watch a video about George Washington or Abraham Lincoln.

QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT FOR FEBRUARY 19

As we celebrate Presidents Day, it’s important to think more deeply about what this day represents. Consider these questions:

  • Why do you think it’s important to have a day dedicated to remembering the presidents?
  • How have different presidents shaped the country’s history and future?
  • What qualities do you think make a good president?
  • How does the role of the president affect the daily lives of Americans?
  • What can we learn from the presidents who served many years ago?

WOULD YOU RATHER QUESTIONS PRESIDENT’S DAY

Here are five questions to spark conversation. Would you rather…

  • Be president for a day or a famous inventor?
  • Have dinner with George Washington or Abraham Lincoln?
  • Live in the White House or have a time machine to visit any president in the past?
  • Write a new law or create a new holiday?
  • Have the power to veto any rule at school or decide what is served for lunch?

MORE FUN STUFF

Here are more fun ideas to help keep the kids entertained:

This Presidents Day, take the opportunity to dive into the rich history of the United States through these activities, questions, and fun facts. It’s a day to remember and honor the leaders who have shaped the nation.

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