The children's parade, ice cream and brass band music are at the heart of 17 May for many families. But between the parade in the morning and bedtime in the evening, there are many hours to fill with something fun, especially when the children are small and their energy swings between grand joy and total exhaustion.
Good activities and games make 17 May a celebration children remember, not just a day when they were dragged around in traditional dress. With the right planning, you get games that fit your child's age, a plan B if the rain comes, and quiet moments after the parade. In this guide, you will find everything you need, from sensory play for the baby to coordinated relay races for the school-age child.
Need a full overview of the day? See the main guide to 17 May for menu, outfits, music and everything else.
Activities by age: find what suits your child best
Children at different ages have completely different needs. A six-month-old will experience the flag with their eyes and hands, while a five-year-old wants rules, points and real speed. Here is play adapted to age.
6-12 months: sensory play
At this age, the baby explores the world with all their senses. 17 May can be a lovely day for sensory stimulation if you keep it simple.
- Flag ribbons: Make simple ribbons with red, white and blue silk fabrics. Let the baby feel the texture, see the colors and hold them up to the light.
- Clap to brass band music: Play a calm brass march and take the baby's hands in yours. Clap in rhythm. Babies love rhythm.
- Stacking game with red, white and blue cups: Use soft plastic cups in the national colors. The baby knocks them down, you build them up. Repeat.
1-2 years: recognition and movement
Toddlers who are just starting to walk love repetition and big movements. Keep the activities short, but repeat them often.
- Flag parade indoors: Give the child a small flag and march around the living room to music. Repeat for as long as the child thinks it is fun.
- Sing "Yes, We Love This Country" with simple gestures: Raise the flag on "Yes", clap on "we love". The song becomes a little choreography.
- Red, white and blue balloons: Drop balloons from above and let the child catch them. Simple movement joy.
