100 million Americans are too young to remember the attacks of 9/11.
It is important for those born after Sept. 11, 2001, to understand its significance and
enduring legacy. They can learn how people were inspired to bravery, compassion, unity
and service – and encouraged to continue through the decades through the National
Day of Service.
Children can honor 9/11 in meaningful, age-appropriate ways that focus on courage,
compassion, and community. Here are some ideas from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum,
educational resources, and community programs:
1. Create Art and Symbols of Hope
- Dear Hero Letter or Artwork: Write or draw a message to honor heroes in their
community. - Paper Cranes: Fold paper cranes to symbolize peace and healing.
- First Responder Badge: Design a badge to honor firefighters, police, and other
first responders. - Survivor Tree Leaves: Make a leaf to add to a collective tree inspired by the Survivor Tree. (A tree was found in the ruins of the World Trade Center. It was
rehabilitated and returned to the National September 11 Memorial in 2010.)
2. Learn Through Books and Stories
- Read age-appropriate picture books like The Little Chapel That
Stood or Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey to share
inspiring true stories. - Use children’s books such as My Buddy’s a Hero — And I Didn’t Even Know It to teach about everyday heroes.
3. Participate in Commemorative Actions
- Walk or Climb Stairs: Simulate the actions of first responders by walking or
climbing stairs to honor their bravery. - Community Service: Join a local clean-up, food drive, or donation project to
follow the example of those who helped after 9/11. - Moment of Silence: Observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. (5:46 am Arizona
time) to honor the victims.
4. Educational and Reflective Activities
- “I Remember” Book: Create a personal or family story about what they know or
feel about 9/11. - Community Helpers Theme: Explore roles like firefighters, police, and medical
workers through crafts, role-play, or printables.
5. Display and Share
- Hang artwork or letters in a family or school display to share the message of
remembrance. - Share stories or reflections with friends, teachers, or community groups.
These activities help children connect with the values of courage, resilience, and service
while keeping the memory of 9/11 alive in a positive, constructive way.
Scottsdale commemorates the 9/11 milestone anniversaries by the building of replica
props representing the Twin Towers, planes, Pentagon, and also features a metal flag –
all of which are adorned with photos and information of all of those who passed away
due to this terrible tragedy. This year, the props will be featured at each of the
Scottsdale libraries. Those who visit each of the locations will receive a special
commemorative gift.
Locations include:
- Civic Center Library: World Trade Center/Twin Towers, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
- Mustang Library: Public Safety Memorial Flag, 10101 N. 90th St.
- Arabian Library: Pentagon, 10215 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd.
- Appaloosa Library: Plane Wing, 7377 E Silverstone Dr.
- Scottsdale Police and Fire Headquarters: World Trade Center Piece of Steel and
other Memorial Pieces, 8401 E. Indian School Rd.
A special reading of the names of those who died in the attacks will be presented at the
Center Lawn, at the Scottsdale Center of the Performing Arts will begin at 7 am, Sept.
11. Find out more by visiting scottsdaleaz.gov.
