Teaching Your Kids About Trooping the Colour

Updated: 11.6.24

Every June, a striking display of tradition and pageantry lights up the heart of London—Trooping the Colour, a spectacular military parade that celebrates the British monarch's official birthday.

Picture this: hundreds of soldiers on horseback, the Royal Family in all their finery, and the skies filled with roaring aircraft.

It’s not just a ceremony; it's a grand festival of national pride that offers a fantastic visual feast for adults and children alike.

Let’s dive into what makes Trooping the Colour a must-see for families.

The History and Tradition

Trooping the Colour has roots stretching back over 260 years, evolving into the resplendent event we see today.

Originally a military drill to ensure that soldiers could recognise their regiment's flag in battle, it has grown into an annual royal celebration.

But why do we still celebrate it?

Trooping the Colour is more than just a ceremony; it’s a vibrant reminder of the UK's rich history and tradition, providing a perfect teaching moment about the continuity and changes in British life.

The Pageantry and Spectacle

The ceremony is an extravaganza of sights and sounds—thousands of soldiers in bright uniforms, impressive horses, and soul-stirring music.

The setting at Horse Guards Parade is itself a spectacle, framed by the beautiful backdrop of St. James’s Park.

This visual splendour is an excellent way for kids to see history alive and in colour.

Imagine explaining the significance of each regiment’s colours or the roles of different officers as you watch, turning the event into a live history lesson!

What to Expect

When you attend Trooping the Colour, it's helpful to know what will happen and when.

The event kicks off around 10 AM, but many spectators arrive several hours earlier to secure good spots.

The ceremony begins with the troops assembling at Horse Guards Parade, followed by the arrival of the Royal Family at approximately 11 AM.

The actual "trooping" of the Colour starts soon after, lasting about an hour, with different regiments taking turns to parade their flags.

After the regimental flags have been displayed, the Royal Family leads a procession back to Buckingham Palace, concluding with the RAF flypast at 1 PM.

These moments, rich in tradition and precision, offer a feast for the senses and a deep dive into British ceremonial splendor.

Seeing the Royal Family

For many, a highlight of Trooping the Colour is the opportunity to see the Royal Family in person.

With King Charles III now at the helm, the event has taken on new significance.

King Charles, the Queen Consort, and other senior royals participate actively in the parade and later appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

This is a magical moment, especially for children, as it brings the stories of princes and princesses into the real world.

It's also an excellent opportunity to discuss the evolving roles of the Royal Family in British society and how traditions adapt over time..

Making it Engaging for Kids

How do you keep a child engaged in an event with so much tradition and protocol?

Make it fun!

Please point out the different military regiments and their unique uniforms.

Look for the royal family members and talk about their roles.

And don’t miss the RAF flypast—a thrilling end to the parade that will have every child (and adult!) looking up in awe.

You could even turn it into a game—see who can spot the most types of uniforms or name the aircraft types as they roar overhead.

Practical Tips for Families

Attending Trooping the Colour can be a thrilling family outing, but it comes with its challenges.

Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot; pack plenty of snacks and water to keep the troops happy and hydrated; and dress appropriately for the unpredictable British weather—sunscreen for sunny days or umbrellas for the inevitable drizzle.

Planning ahead can make the difference between a stressful day and a memorable adventure.

Health and Safety Tips

Attending a large, public event like Trooping the Colour requires some planning for health and safety.

First, always keep your children within sight to avoid them getting lost in the crowd.

Discuss a meeting point in case anyone gets separated.

Secondly, be aware of the nearest medical stations and keep a small first aid kit for minor emergencies.

Lastly, ensure everyone stays hydrated, uses sunscreen on sunny days, and wears appropriate clothing for the weather, as you'll be outdoors for several hours.

Using Public Transport

The easiest way to get to Trooping the Colour is by public transport.

The nearest tube stations are Charing Cross, Westminster, and St James's Park.

These stations can get incredibly busy on the day of the event, so consider arriving early or using alternative stations like Piccadilly Circus or Green Park for a less crowded experience.

Buses might be rerouted on the day due to road closures, so check the latest transport updates before you leave.

Remember, public transport will be the safest and quickest option, as driving into central London will be challenging due to traffic restrictions and parking limitations.

Involving Kids in the Build-up

Get your kids excited and ready by involving them in the build-up to the big day.

Watch videos of past parades, read children's books about the monarchy and British history, or have a family discussion about what to watch for during the event.

This preparation not only makes the actual day more enjoyable but also deepens their understanding and appreciation of what they’re witnessing.

Follow-Up Discussion Points

After you and your family have experienced Trooping the Colour, engaging in a detailed discussion can be a wonderful way to deepen the event's impact and reinforce what your children have learned.

Start by asking about their favorite parts of the parade, such as the vibrant uniforms or the precise marching of the soldiers.

What did they think about the music?

Did any particular moment stand out to them?

Such questions help children articulate their observations and reactions, making the experience more memorable.

Discuss the significance of maintaining such traditions in modern British culture.

Why do we continue to celebrate these events annually?

What do they signify about our national identity and heritage?

These conversations can offer insights into the value of preserving history through generations.

Probe their thoughts with questions like, "How do you think the soldiers felt being part of such a grand tradition?" or "What do you think it takes to prepare for an event like this?" Encourage them to consider the discipline and pride that might be felt by those participating.

Furthermore, ask, "Why is it important to have ceremonies like these?" and "What might change about Trooping the Colour in the future?"

These discussions can help children appreciate the ceremony’s role in cultural continuity and its potential evolution.

Extend the conversation to how such ceremonies compare with other national traditions around the world.

This can broaden their understanding of global cultures and the unique ways different societies commemorate their history and values.

Finally, consider having your kids express what they've learned creatively—perhaps drawing a scene from the parade, writing a short story from the perspective of a young spectator, or even imagining how they would modify the parade if they were in charge.

This creative expression allows children to connect more deeply with the event and consider its significance in a broader context.

A List of Resources

• iChild Trooping the Colour Section - iChild offers high-quality resources to support children's education, development, and creativity. Their Trooping the Colour section provides activities, crafts, and educational materials related to the ceremony.

• Britannica Kids - Trooping the Colour - Britannica Kids provides a student-friendly article about Trooping the Colour, explaining the history, significance, and traditions of the ceremony.

• ESL Resources - Trooping the Colour - ESL Resources provides lesson plans and teaching materials related to Trooping the Colour. While primarily designed for English as a Second Language learners, the resources can be adapted for teaching kids about the ceremony.

Conclusion: Embrace the Experience

Trooping the Colour is not just an outing—it's an enriching experience that combines education, entertainment, and tradition.

By exploring its history, engaging actively during the parade, and discussing everything afterwards, you’re not just teaching your kids about a British tradition; you're giving them a live lesson in culture, history, and national identity.

So pack your binoculars, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be part of a living history.