Every year, at Kiama’s Anzac Day dawn service, amidst the crowds of people walking up to the lighthouse, are children in their pyjamas, babies in prams and toddlers holding out coins to put in the donation jars. 

There are many benefits to involving young people in Anzac Day traditions: it teaches children about history and the sacrifice of previous generations; it gives families an opportunity to talk about war and peace in a way that is respectful, empathetic and age-appropriate. 

The Aussie Childcare Network has this advice for child-friendly Anzac day activities: focus on the pride of the country, talk about the freedom we have to feel safe, bake some ANZAC treats or read Anzac-themed children’s books.

You don’t have to wake up before sunrise to show your respect. This year, Kiama will offer a range of Anzac Day activities to suit people of all ages.

1. Kiama Dawn Service

A favourite with local children, Kiama Dawn Service knows how to put on a show. As well as the service itself, it’s an opportunity for children to see the lighthouse in action, with the sound of the blowhole in the darkness and an impressive line-up of motorbikes and sidecars. There’s also the option to head into Diggies café afterwards — they open early on Anzac Day to cater to the lighthouse crowd.

1. Paint a Poppy

Local libraries are inviting people of all ages to ‘Paint a Poppy’ in the lead up to Anzac Day — a symbol of sacrifice and remembrance. At a series of workshops in Kiama and Gerringong libraries, local artist Kylie Morrison will guide you through a step-by-step process with classes for people aged five and upwards. Workshops run from 8 – 22 April and bookings are essential. For more information, visit library.kiama.nsw.gov.au

1. March with your School

The Anzac Day March in Kiama is one of the largest community events of the year with local schools offering students a chance to march behind veterans and community organisations. Although details are yet to be confirmed for 2024, last year the March began at 10.30am, with school groups gathering outside the old Council Chambers on Manning Street, before marching down Terralong Street. Students walk with educators from their schools and parents collect them from the Memorial Arch afterwards.   

1. Plant a Garden

The ancient Greeks used to say that rosemary helped memory, and, in many countries, it signifies remembrance, particularly in Australia on Anzac Day. In the lead-up to Anzac Day, visit Burnetts on Barney Street for a rosemary plant that your family can plant together, whilst talking about how it became significant to soldiers on the Gallipoli peninsula.

1. Escape the Crowds

If your children are sensitive to noise or crowds, a dawn service or march can be intimidating — but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out. Ever since the Anzac Day lockdown of 2020, when people stood at the end of their driveway at dawn, some local families have continued the tradition. “It’s a more accessible way of observing Anzac Day for our family,” a parent told The Bugle. “We stand at the end of our driveway and watch the sunrise whilst listening to the Sydney service streamed on ABC radio. For us, it’s very special.”