US Postage Stamp Day
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On July 1st, we celebrate US Postage Stamp Day. This special occasion that honors the small pieces of art that have played a significant role in communication throughout history. Postage stamps not only allow us to send letters and packages but also serve as miniature canvases showcasing unique designs and cultural symbols.
The History of US Postage Stamp Day
US Postage Stamp Day holds significance because it marks the introduction of the first adhesive postage stamps in the United States. On July 1, 1847, the United States Post Office issued its first stamps. These stamps were: the 5-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp and the 10-cent George Washington stamp. This innovation revolutionized the postal system. We now had a standardized way to prepay for mail delivery, making it more efficient and accessible to all. You can read more in the blog post: Study of Stamps and Postal History
Exploring the World of Stamps: Stamps are not merely functional tools; they are also a form of art and storytelling. Over the years, postage stamps have showcased a wide array of subjects, from historical figures and national symbols to famous artworks and endangered species. They capture the essence of a country’s culture, history, and achievements within the confined space of a small piece of paper.
Ideas to Engage Children in US Postage Stamp Day
Stamp Collecting
Introduce children to the fascinating hobby of stamp collecting. Help them start their own stamp collection by providing them with stamps from letters, magazines, or purchasing a starter stamp set. Encourage them to categorize and organize their stamps based on themes, countries, or time periods. They can learn about different cultures, historical events, and iconic figures through the stamps they collect.
Design Your Own Stamp
Unleash children’s creativity by inviting them to design their own postage stamps. Provide them with art supplies like paper, colored pencils, markers, and stickers. Ask them to think about a theme or subject that is meaningful to them, such as nature, sports, or their favorite animals. Let their imaginations soar as they create a unique stamp design that reflects their personality and interests. Grab our FREE TEMPLATE for this project.
Postal Service Appreciation
Teach children about the importance of mail and postal workers. Help them write letters or create handmade cards to send to family members, friends, or even local organizations. Discuss the journey of a letter from the sender to the recipient, highlighting the role of stamps in facilitating the delivery process. Encourage children to express their gratitude and share their thoughts through handwritten correspondence.
Stamps in Artwork
Integrate stamps into art projects to spark children’s creativity. Provide them with a variety of used stamps, and ask them to incorporate them into collages, mixed-media artwork, or even storytelling through visual compositions. This activity encourages children to think beyond the traditional use of stamps and explore new ways of incorporating them into their artistic expressions.
For a more complete history, Grab our HISTORY OF US POSTAGE from the Happy Hive Shop.
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