There’s more to flag etiquette than standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Learn more about what you’ll need to do to show respect for the Stars & Stripes here.
The American flag, as a symbol of our nation, requires a certain amount of respect. This manifests itself in our Flag Code—a set of rules and regulations that defines the exact specifications of the American flag, as well as how we should display it, handle it, and care for it. Our observance of this code is referred to as flag etiquette. Like all rules of etiquette, it’s important to know and abide by these rules in public settings, lest people see you as someone with much to learn. Just as you observe this code of conduct yourself, make sure your own children know how to properly honor the American flag with this brief overview of how to teach kids about flag etiquette.
Emphasize the Basics
The Flag Code is not a simple document. As a comprehensive guide to flag etiquette, it outlines a wealth of applications and situations, not all of which would be germane to your children’s lessons in patriotism. But it’s important to go over the basics of flag etiquette that your child may encounter in everyday life. For instance, the American flag should not touch the ground, nor should it be worn as apparel, used as advertising, or disposed of carelessly. A properly folded American flag should be triangular. By observing the basics of flag etiquette, your kids will demonstrate their patriotism well.
Teach Proper Disposal
The American flag looks majestic as it flaps in the wind, but years of wind, rain, snow, heat, and cold can take their toll on even the most durable flags. Though a tangible edition of the American flag can reach the end of its life, the spirit of the American flag always endures. Part of flag etiquette is to take care of the flag and only fly it in good condition. That means you should gracefully retire a flag that has taken its share of damage and become frayed, faded, or otherwise worn out. Do not throw a spent flag in your garbage can, toss it on a pile of burning leaves, or stuff it in the back of the garage to be forgotten. Virtually every town in America has an American Legion post, and your local post will happily collect retired flags for proper and honorable disposal.
Teach the “Why,” Not Just the “How”
Rules about folding and proper disposal are all well and good. However, without instilling a deeper understanding of why the flag should be treated with care, flag etiquette becomes more about ritual than reverence. Teach kids about flag etiquette, but also teach them about the values the American flag stands for and how we have not only fought for those ideals but continue to work toward realizing them even to this day. With this knowledge, you can rest assured that your children will observe the Flag Code with purpose.
