The Meaning of Independence Day

Note: We've tweaked the regular Moms Talk column to include fathers, too. Post a question/comment, and a member of our Parents Council will respond ASAP.

Fireworks, barbecues and other summer activities are all a part of Independence Day weekend. So much so that the real reason for lighting the sky on fire is sometimes completely missed. So even though we are on summer break, here is a history refresher course for parents and kids alike.

The Fourth of July is federal holiday that commemorates the United States winning its freedom from Great Britain. The original 13 colonies (Georgia was one) separated from Great Britain on July 2, 1776. On July 4, the Declaration of Independence was approved.

This freedom did not come without cost. Many soldiers lost their lives to give us the freedom that we have today. In today's world, soldiers all over the world are still protecting the United States' freedom.

So while fireworks are going off above every major city, family members gather together to play with sparklers in the front yard,  and festivals cover mall parking lots or baseball fields, do you take a moment to explain to your children what the Fourth of July is all about?

How is your Fourth of July different than the other summer holidays?