In the U.S., Presidents’ Day falls on the third Monday of February. Originally, it was a day to celebrate George Washington and was later expanded to include Abraham Lincoln. Today, it’s a time to honor all of America’s commanders-in-chief. These Presidents’ Day videos cover the history of the day, plus lots of fun and interesting facts about each of our presidents. You’ll find options for all ages and interests!
1. The Daily Bellringer: Presidents’ Day Explained
You’ll get lots of information in this video, all told in less than five minutes. It’s the perfect way to kick off your day.
2. History of Presidents’ Day
Here’s a quick history of the holiday, told in less than two minutes. Fun fact: Presidents’ Day never falls on the actual birthday of any president!
3. Mrs. Kim Reads Presidents’ Day
Read along with Mrs. Kim and learn how Mrs. Madoff’s class celebrates Presidents’ Day. They hold a pageant and their very own election.
4. George Washington’s Birthday Read Aloud
We know how we celebrate Washington’s birthday today. But how did Washington himself celebrate his birthday? Find out in this sweet read aloud!
5. How the Presidency Was Formed
America invented the office of the modern president. Older kids can learn more about how this position came to be and how Washington helped determine what powers it would have. This is a long video, but it’s packed with interesting info.
6. U.S. Presidents Song
From George Washington to Joe Biden, you’ll find every POTUS in this catchy song. The hip-hop beat makes it a real hit!
7. Presidential Facts
Do you know there was only one president who was elected unanimously? Or that two presidents were once arrested together? Learn these facts and more in this fascinating video.
8. Presidential Pets
Almost every president has had a pet or two while living in the White House. (Only three did not!) Learn about some of them in this cute video.
9. Presidential Coins Song
Little learners get practice with money when they sing along with this Presidents’ Day video. Pass out some coins for them to examine while they watch.
10. 60-Second Presidents
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries
PBS has an entire series of quick presidential bios. Watch them all, or let each student pick one, then report back to the class on what they learned.
11. Ten Things Kids Should Know About U.S. Presidents
There are some interesting facts in here, like the fact that one of our presidents liked to go skinny-dipping every morning!
12. Andrew Jackson: Disney Education
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries
Disney created a fun series of biographical Presidents’ Day videos too. This one on Andrew Jackson is about three minutes long and full of interesting info kids will enjoy.
13. Precedents of Washington
We know not every history teacher has time to dress up in costumes and make song parodies for YouTube. Fortunately, Mr. Betts does! This one covers all the precedents Washington set for our country, to the tune of Toto’s “Africa.”
14. Abraham Lincoln: The Civil War President
The kid narrator and simple animation of this longer video make it a terrific choice for elementary school classrooms. Learn all about Lincoln’s life, time in office, and untimely death.
15. The Civil War: The Gettysburg Address
Perhaps the greatest presidential speech of all time, the Gettysburg Address is one every student should hear and examine. This snippet from Ken Burns’ Civil War series sets it in context. (It does include some photos of dead soldiers on the battlefield, so it may not be suitable for younger kids.)
16. Mr. Lincoln Song
We love this fun, folksy song that celebrates Lincoln’s history and legacy. Don’t blame us if the chorus gets stuck in your head, though!
17. Kid President Meets President Obama
Remember Kid President? He’s practically grown up now, but this video of him meeting Barack Obama is still priceless. Kids who watch get an inside look at the Oval Office and some advice on how to make the world a better place.
18. 43 Facts About 43 Presidents
Want to learn a little about every POTUS in just two minutes? This video is for you! It was made a few years ago, so it covers the presidents from Washington to Obama. Have your students dig up and add their own facts about our more recent leaders.