Elementary school students learn best when the material is hands-on, and they can explore different dimensions of a topic. That's why parents of elementary and middle school students might want to bring kids to learn about the Revolutionary War Battle of Brooklyn. Pick from a series events scheduled every August in Brooklyn.
Whether your child is studying American history, social studies, music or geography, seeing where real New Yorkers fought for national independence and religious freedom in 1776 can make boring history lessons come alive.
Here are a few Battle of Brooklyn events recommended for families with school age children.
1. A Mock Battle of Brooklyn at Green-wood Cemetery (end of August)
Photo courtesy of Old Stone House of Brooklyn
The Battle of Brooklyn was one of the most important battles of the Revolutionary War.
Check out the program at Green-wood Cemetery, which always includes a re-enactment of a battle. Participants wear period costumes, fire cannons and generally re-create some sense of the importance of the actual day. There's also a parade with music from the era. Both the mock battle and the colonial era music will interest kids!
Learn more about the August 28 events at Green-wood marking the Battle of Brooklyn
2. George Washington Escapes from Brooklyn Heights by Water to Manhattan
Well, of course, every child studying American social studies has heard of George Washington. But what they don't know is that he barely escaped with his life from the Battle of Brooklyn. Bring the kids to see a re-enactment of the great escape that saved the American Revolution. It's at Brooklyn Bridge Park, near the Brooklyn Bridge. General Washington didn't have a chance to take a nap in Brooklyn,but he did plot a successful escape from the much stronger British troops! And if he hadn't escaped, we might be a very different country today.
Learn more about the fun events marking the Battle of Brooklyn
