Helping Kids Learn about Queen Elizabeth II and her Legacy

Explore these kid-friendly resources for helping kids learn about Queen Elizabeth II. Using children’s books, videos, and facts about her life, learn about her life and the legacy she shared with the world as the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

As the news came out this week, a wave of unexpected emotions has come over me upon hearing about Queen Elizabeth II’s death. To be honest, when someone feels like they’ve always been here, it’s hard to picture what the world is like without them.

My thoughts and prayers are with The Royal Family during this time as they remember her life and legacy. Imagine all that she experienced from her role, all the change in 96 years, and all the people she met in her lifetime. May she rest in peace.

The Queen has been a constant rock through all the ups and downs for many generations. She has contributed to the lives of people around the world so much more than we will ever know. Her hard work, faith, and dedication are an inspiration to so many.

How to Talk to Your Child about Queen Elizabeth II’s Death

I wanted to put together a guide for parents and teachers to help you prepare as you have a conversation about the death of Queen Elizabeth II. For many, this can be the first time having a conversation about death with a young child.

I actually was having trouble putting to words how I was feeling and then read these words from an old family friend and pastor and thought I’d share with you.

“I am deeply (and somewhat surprisingly) saddened by the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Regardless of how one feels about the monarchy, she has been a tireless example of duty, fidelity, integrity, and resilience. She has also held her title of Defender of the Faith with reverence and serious devotion. I respect her and what she represents and my prayers are with all in the UK and Commonwealth, as well as the global community, who mourn her passing. It is unlikely that we will ever know another like her. May she Rest In Peace.”

Max Wilkins, President and CEO of TMS Global

How to talk with your child about death

• Have the conversation, keep it simple
• Use language about death your child can understand
• Help put big concepts into context for kids
• Identify and communicate your emotions
• Reassure your child
• Listen to their questions and respond honestly

The Do’s and Don’ts of Talking With a Child About Death by Psychology Today

You may also find this article helpful How to Help Your Child Cope with Tragic Events.

For me I find comfort in learning facts about someone in a time of grief, your child may want to learn more as well.

The Royal Family’s website is a helpful resource as well.

Kid Friendly Facts About Queen Elizabeth II

I put together a collection of facts, books, and videos to explore if your child asks for more information. I’d encourage you to keep it child-led and focus on their interests. Honestly a few of these facts you may also find interesting as we mourn the Queen. Keeping the TV off during these times helps keep our kids protected but can also leave us without the information we’re seeking.

Here are some fun facts about Queen Elizabeth II…

• The Queen was born on April 21, 1926, although she also celebrated an official birthday in June each year.
• The monarch was born Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor.
• Queen Elizabeth II was the only female Royal Family member to have entered the armed forces.
• She became Queen of the United Kingdom when she was 25 years old following the death of her father King George VI.
• As Queen, she was served by 15 UK Prime Ministers
• The Queen and Prince Philip were married for 73 years, until Philip’s death on 9 April 2021.
• The Queen and Prince Philip were proud parents of four children – Prince Charles, now known as King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward. 
• They have eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
• She owned more than 30 corgis over the course of her lifetime.
• In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II made history by becoming the first British monarch to reign for 70 years.
• The Queen helped raise over $2 billion for over 600 nonprofits during her reign as Britain’s longest-serving monarch
• Queen Elizabeth II became the most visible and well-traveled monarch in history

For kids, this visual graphic of various facts about the queen they may find interesting. Can you believe that during her time as queen there were 14 US Presidents and 15 UK Prime Ministers?

You can read the full CNN article here: The Queen’s Life in Numbers.

If you want to learn even more facts about Queen Elizabeth II, take a look at this article from Kiddle.

Explore 29 Photos of Queen Elizabeth’s Most Regal Moments During Her 70-Year Reign

In honor of her extraordinary life and historic reign, take a look at these iconic photos of Queen Elizabeth II’s most majestic, monumental, and inspiring moments as Queen of England.

Here’s a look at the stately residences the Queen called home over the course of her long life.

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon Affiliate links.

Children’s Books About Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning monarch in British history. From coronations and corgis to jewels and jubilees, we’ve put together a list of recommended children’s books to help to learn more about Queen Elizabeth II.

I’ve listed them for you here below. Each image links back to Amazon for easy reference and to purchase to add to your home or classroom library.

These books about Queen Elizabeth help teach kids about her incredible legacy.

• Queen Elizabeth II: A Little Golden Book Biography by Jen Arena (LISTEN)
• Her Majesty the Queen: Elizabeth II by David Chung
• Little Elizabeth: The Young Princess Who Became Queen by Valerie Wilding
• Queen Elizabeth II: The Queen Who Chose To Serve by Alison Mitchell (LISTEN)
• The Queen’s Wardrobe: The Story of Queen Elizabeth II and Her Clothes by Julia Golding
• Queen Elizabeth: A Platinum Jubilee Celebration by DK
• Our Queen Elizabeth: Her Extraordinary Life from the Crown to the Corgis by Kate Williams
• Who Is Queen Elizabeth II? (Who Was?) by Megan Stine
• Queen Elizabeth II Paper Dolls by Eileen Rudisill Miller
• The Times Queen Elizabeth II: Her 70 Year Reign by James Owen
• Kings and Queens of England and Scotland by Pamela Egan
• The Royal Family: The Queen by Julia Adams
• Queen Elizabeth II (A Life Story) by Sally Morgan
• Lilibet: The Girl Who Would be Queen by A.N. Wilson
• The Queen’s Handbag by Steve Antony (LISTEN)
• The Queen’s Knickers by Nicholas Allan (LISTEN)
• The Queen’s Hat by Steve Antony (LISTEN)

Videos for Kids about Queen Elizabeth II

Here are a few age-appropriate videos sharing the life of Queen Elizabeth II as we remember her. I found this touching video sharing a few special moments of the queen’s speeches on video from over the years.

Queen Elizabeth II’s inspirational speeches | Good Morning America

Being the Queen: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II | National Geographic

Queen Elizabeth II: The Queen Mother | Biography

Queen Elizabeth II and Britain’s leaders – Britain’s longest reigning monarch | DW Documentary

Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee for Kids (Celebrating 70 Years of Reign) | Miss Ellis

The Queen’s Jubilee | Platinum Jubilee 2022 | Twinkl Kids

What is the United Kingdom? | Silly School Education

United Kingdom Song | Silly School Education

Queen Elizabeth II: her reign in numbers | The Economists

Virtual tours: Buckingham Palace

Windsor Castle Tour – The Queen’s Royal Residence | England Travel Ideas

Her son, King Charles III, addressed the United Kingdom in a speech for the first time after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in Scotland at age 96.

Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today. 

King Charles III, His Majesty The King’s address to the Nation and the Commonwealth

Reflections of the Queen’s Legacy

As the days pass, we’ve seen throughout the news and online, world leaders sharing their condolences and tributes to Queen Elizabeth II. To see her life through the eyes of others and the moments they’ve shared truly makes you realize how many lives she touched and impacted in the course of her life.

Barack Obama shared a heartfelt message in his tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. The photo he shared was a lovely moment he shared with the queen and his wife, look at the glow!

“Her Majesty worked with 15 Prime Ministers and countless foreign heads of state. She listened deeply, thought strategically, and was responsible for considerable diplomatic achievements. And yet, she wore her lofty titles with a light touch”

Barack Obama, Former Presidents of the United States |Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

In their own words, the Royal grandchildren talk about their grandmother over the years. Watch What made ‘Granny’ Queen Elizabeth II special by ABC News.

To learn more you can watch this video about Queen Elizabeth’s II 8 Grandchildren. It shares facts about the lives and triumphs of all 8 of the royal grandchildren.

This video shares Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, shares with the UK Parliament a reflection on her impact on our lives.

“As we think of the void she leaves, we understand the vital role she played, selflessly and calmly embodying the continuity and unity of our country. We think of her deep wisdom, and historic understanding, and her seemingly inexhaustible but understated sense of duty.”

Boris Johnson, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

President Joe Biden shares his condolences that reflect the connection so many felt with Queen Elizabeth II over her 70 years in reign.

“In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her. An enduring admiration for Queen Elizabeth II united people across the Commonwealth. The seven decades of her history-making reign bore witness to an age of unprecedented human advancement and the forward march of human dignity.”

Joe Biden, President of the United States

For the Royal Family, you can send your message of condolence using this form. A selection of messages will be passed on to members of the Royal Family and may be held in the Royal Archives for posterity.

As she leaves this legacy it only seems fitting that Rainbows Appear at Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace After Queen Elizabeth’s Death.

Our thoughts and prayers are with The Royal Family during this time as they honor and remember her life. Queen Elizabeth II has inspired many future generations through the legacy she’s left behind.

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