By Stephanie Chan

Are you ready for the Fourth of July? Following the color scheme of red, white, and blue, here are some ideas to make the holiday fun for both you and your nieces and nephews:

1. Read a book to the kids
It’s important for the kids to know what they’re celebrating before they celebrate it. I recommend The Fourth of July Story by Alice Dalgliesh. The kids will learn all about the colonies’ desire for freedom, as well as the creation of the Declaration of Independence.

2. Bake
Here is Martha Stewart’s recipe on how to make flag cookies - it’s a spin on the classic sugar cookie! Once the cookies have cooled, have the kids ice on the American flag design.

3. Let’s get crafty
Have the kids design their own Fourth of July t-shirts. Check out this step by step guide on this DIY project on kidsactivitesblog.com I recommend laying down some newspaper on the floor as things are sure to get a little messy!

4. Fireworks
The fireworks are always the perfect way to end Independence Day festivities. Pack up some blankets, and take the kids up to the roof or to the park. Lay down on the grass, relax, and enjoy the show. Or, if you can’t make it to see the fireworks, try some of these firework craft ideas!

Photo: heraldpost via Flickr cc
Published: July 1, 2014