5 Easy Steps to Draw the 9/11 Memorial for Kids

The 9/11 attacks were a series of four terrorist attacks by the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda against the United States on the morning of September 11, 2001. The attacks resulted in 2,977 deaths, over 25,000 injuries, and substantial long-term health consequences, in addition to at least $10 billion in infrastructure and property damage. The attacks were the deadliest terrorist attacks in world history and the single deadliest incident for firefighters and law enforcement officers in the history of the United States.

The attacks began at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) when American Airlines Flight 11, a Boeing 767, crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. Seventeen minutes later, at 9:03 a.m. EDT, United Airlines Flight 175, also a Boeing 767, crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center. At 9:37 a.m. EDT, American Airlines Flight 77, a Boeing 757, crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. At 10:03 a.m. EDT, United Airlines Flight 93, a Boeing 757, crashed into a field in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania after some of the passengers and crew members attempted to regain control of the plane from the hijackers.

The collapse of the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon caused significant damage to the surrounding areas. The collapse of the World Trade Center towers created a large dust cloud that spread throughout Lower Manhattan and caused extensive damage to nearby buildings. The collapse of the Pentagon caused a partial collapse of the building’s outer ring and significant damage to the interior. The attacks also caused significant economic damage, as the World Trade Center was a major financial center and the Pentagon is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.

Understanding the Tragic Event of 9/11

On September 11, 2001, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks struck the United States. Four commercial airliners were hijacked by members of the Islamic terrorist group, al-Qaeda. The hijackers intentionally crashed two of the planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, one plane into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and one plane into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew members attempted to regain control of the aircraft.

The attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people from over 90 countries. It was the deadliest terrorist attack in world history and the single deadliest incident for firefighters and law enforcement officers in the history of the United States.

The events of 9/11 had a profound impact on the United States and the world. They led to the United States’ invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001 and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security in November 2002. The attacks also sparked a global debate about terrorism and its causes.

In the years since 9/11, the Twin Towers site has been rebuilt, and a new memorial and museum have been dedicated to the victims of the attacks. The Pentagon has also been rebuilt, and a memorial has been erected at the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

September 11th is now commemorated as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. It is a time to remember the victims of the attacks and to honor the heroes who responded to them. It is also a time to reflect on the lessons that we have learned from this tragic event and to work together to prevent future acts of terrorism.

Creating a Respectful Drawing

When drawing the 9/11 events for kids, it’s essential to approach it with respect and sensitivity. Consider the following guidelines:

Choose muted colors and simple shapes to avoid sensationalizing the event.
Focus on the bravery of the first responders and the resilience of the survivors rather than the violence.
Consider including symbols of remembrance, such as the American flag or a white dove, to convey the somber nature of the event.
Avoid depicting specific individuals or victims without proper consent and consultation.
Explain the significance of the event to your child in an age-appropriate manner.
Use the drawing as a starting point for discussions about the importance of compassion, unity, and remembrance.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Twin Towers

**1. Draw the Base**

Draw a rectangle for the base of each tower. The rectangles should be the same size and parallel to each other, about twice as long as they are wide.

**2. Add the Sides**

Connect the top corners of the rectangles with straight lines to form the sides of the towers. The lines should be parallel and extend slightly above the tops of the rectangles.

**3. Add the Antennae**

To create the antennae, draw two vertical lines extending from the tops of the towers. Make the antennae slightly shorter than the towers and slightly wider at the bases. For the Northern Tower, add a crossbar to the top of the antenna, representing the observation deck.

**4. Add Windows**

Draw small rectangles or squares along the sides of the towers to represent the windows. Arrange them evenly spaced and slightly overlapping.

**5. Add Details**

Add additional details to make the towers more realistic. Draw narrow lines along the edges of the towers to create the paneling. You can also add small, square boxes along the sides to represent the elevator shafts.

**6. Color**

Color the towers gray or silver to represent their metal exterior. Add blue or black rectangles to the tops of the antennae for the observation decks.

Adding the Pentagon Building

To add the Pentagon Building to your drawing, follow these steps:

Draw a large, five-sided shape at the bottom of your paper. This will be the Pentagon.
Add a small circle in the center of the Pentagon. This will be the center of the building.
Draw five lines from the center circle to each of the five corners of the Pentagon. These will be the walls of the building.
Add windows and doors to the building. You can use small squares and rectangles for windows, and small lines for doors. Start by drawing a straight line that is about three inches long. Then, use a ruler or protractor to draw five more straight lines that are each about three inches long. These lines should all meet at the center point of the Pentagon.
Next, draw a small circle in the center of each of the five lines. These circles will be the windows of the Pentagon.

Finally, draw a small square or rectangle in the center of each of the five lines. These squares or rectangles will be the doors of the Pentagon.
Erase any unnecessary lines.
Color your Pentagon Building.

Step	Description
1	Draw a large, five-sided shape at the bottom of your paper.
2	Add a small circle in the center of the Pentagon.
3	Draw five lines from the center circle to each of the five corners of the Pentagon.
4	Add windows and doors to the building.
5	Erase any unnecessary lines.
6	Color your Pentagon Building.

Incorporating the Ground Zero Memorial

The Ground Zero Memorial is a powerful reminder of the lives lost on 9/11. To incorporate it into your drawing, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Draw the two square reflecting pools.
Step 2: Add the names of the victims around the pools. You can write them in small letters or use a template.
Step 3: Draw the Freedom Tower behind the memorial. It should be much taller than the memorial.
Step 4: Add the surrounding buildings. They can be smaller and less detailed.
Step 5: Color your drawing. The reflecting pools can be blue, the names can be black, the Freedom Tower can be gray, and the buildings can be various colors. You can also add some green to represent the trees and grass around the memorial.

Depicting the Brave First Responders

As a symbol of courage and selflessness, draw the first responders who rushed to the scene of the 9/11 attacks. Highlight their distinctive uniforms and protective gear, capturing the determination and bravery they displayed.

Firefighters

Depict the firefighters with their rugged helmets and fireproof suits. Position them near the burning buildings, battling the flames with their hoses and axes.

Police Officers

Sketch the police officers in their uniforms, armed with radios and flashlights. Show them coordinating rescue efforts, providing security, and assisting survivors.

Paramedics

Draw the paramedics with their medical kits and gurneys. Position them tending to the injured, providing critical care, and transporting victims to safety.

Canine Units

Include canine units in your drawing, depicting search and rescue dogs working alongside their handlers. Show them navigating the rubble, locating survivors, and providing emotional support.

Other First Responders

Acknowledge the contributions of other first responders, such as medical personnel, volunteers, and construction workers. Show them providing aid, clearing debris, and supporting the recovery efforts.

First Responder	Uniform and Gear	Role
Firefighters	Helmets, fireproof suits, hoses, axes	Extinguishing flames, searching for survivors
Police Officers	Uniforms, radios, flashlights	Coordinating rescue efforts, providing security
Paramedics	Medical kits, gurneys	Tending to injuries, transporting victims
Canine Units	Search and rescue dogs, handlers	Locating survivors, providing emotional support
Other First Responders	Varies depending on role	Providing aid, clearing debris, supporting recovery

Symbolizing Hope and Remembrance

The 9/11 attacks were a horrific tragedy, but they also inspired a wave of hope and remembrance. In the aftermath of the attacks, people around the world came together to support the victims and their families. They created memorials, gave blood, and donated money to help those who had been affected.

The Number 7

The number 7 has special significance in relation to 9/11. The attacks occurred on September 11th, which is the 254th day of the year. 254 is a multiple of 7, and 9/11 can be written as 9/11/01, which also has a sum of 7. Additionally, the World Trade Center had 7 buildings, and the Pentagon, which was also attacked on 9/11, has 7 sides.

The number 7 is often associated with hope and remembrance. It is the number of days in a week, and it is also the number of notes in a musical scale. In many cultures, the number 7 is considered to be lucky. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.

The 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial is a beautiful and moving tribute to the victims of the attacks. It is located on the site of the World Trade Center, and it consists of two reflecting pools that are each surrounded by the names of the victims. The pools are meant to represent the void left by the attacks, and they are a place for people to come together to remember and grieve.

The Pentagon Memorial

The Pentagon Memorial is a memorial to the victims of the attack on the Pentagon. It is located on the site of the attack, and it consists of 184 benches, each representing one of the victims. The benches are arranged in a circle, and they are meant to represent the unity of the victims and their families.

Memorial	Location	Description
9/11 Memorial	Site of the World Trade Center	Two reflecting pools surrounded by the names of the victims
Pentagon Memorial	Site of the attack on the Pentagon	184 benches, each representing one of the victims

Discussing the Importance of Historical Awareness

Historical awareness is the knowledge and understanding of past events and their impact on the present. It helps us make sense of the world around us, learn from our mistakes, and avoid repeating them. It also helps us build empathy for others and appreciate the diversity of human experiences.

8. Understanding the Collapse of the Twin Towers

The collapse of the Twin Towers was a horrific event that claimed the lives of thousands of innocent people. It’s important for children to understand what happened and why it happened so they can learn from the mistakes of the past and help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.

There are many ways to teach children about the collapse of the Twin Towers. Here are some tips:

Use age-appropriate language and images. Don’t overwhelm children with too much information or graphic images. Instead, focus on the basics of what happened and why it happened.
Be sensitive to children’s reactions. Some children may be scared or upset after learning about the collapse of the Twin Towers. Be patient and answer their questions honestly and reassuringly.
Discuss the importance of historical awareness. Help children understand why it’s important to learn about the past and how it can help us avoid making the same mistakes in the future.

Here is a table summarizing the key points to discuss with children about the collapse of the Twin Towers:

Key Point	Discussion Questions
What happened on September 11, 2001?	Who was responsible for the attacks?
Why did the Twin Towers collapse?	What were the consequences of the attacks?
What can we learn from the attacks?	How can we prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future?

Encouraging Thoughtful Dialogue and Perspective

9/11 and the Importance of Nine

The number nine holds profound significance in the context of the 9/11 attacks. It is a reminder of the catastrophic events of that day, marking the following key aspects:

The World Trade Center Towers:
The towers were 110 floors tall, with nine floors below ground level. The number “nine” appears in the total floors (119).

Date of the Attacks:
The attacks occurred on September 11th, or 9/11. The significance of “9/11” has become synonymous with the events of that day.

American Airlines Flight 11:
The first plane to hit the World Trade Center, American Airlines Flight 11, had a flight number with two nine digits: 11.

United Airlines Flight 175:
The second plane to hit the World Trade Center, United Airlines Flight 175, also had a flight number with two nine digits: 17 (1 + 7 = 8, which can be considered as 9 rotated by 180 degrees).

9/11 Memorial:
The 9/11 Memorial Plaza in New York City features two reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood. The pools are square and each has a side length of 110 feet, representing the number of stories in the towers.

The recurrence of the number nine in these events serves as a poignant reminder of the magnitude and impact of 9/11. It encourages thoughtful dialogue about the events that transpired that day and their lasting legacy.

Fostering Empathy and Understanding

It’s essential to foster empathy and understanding in children when discussing 9/11. Here are some ways to approach this sensitive topic:

1. Age-Appropriate Language

Use clear and simple language that children can understand. Explain the events in a way that is not too graphic or overwhelming for their age.

2. Historical Context

Provide historical context about the events leading up to 9/11, helping children understand the motivations behind the attacks.

3. Focus on the Victims

Emphasize the lives lost and the impact on the families and communities affected by the attacks. Share stories of heroism and resilience.

4. Personalize the Experience

Use personal accounts, photographs, or videos to bring the events to life and make them more relatable for children.

5. Encourage Questions

Answer children’s questions openly and honestly, addressing their concerns and fears. Encourage them to express their feelings.

6. Use Visual Aids

Drawings, maps, and timelines can help children visualize and understand the events.

7. Emphasize Common Ground

Highlight the shared humanity of both victims and perpetrators. Discuss the importance of tolerance and respect for people of all faiths and backgrounds.

8. Foster a Sense of Patriotism

While not glorifying war, emphasize the bravery and sacrifice of those who responded to the attacks. Foster a sense of national pride and resilience.

9. Encourage Reflection and Remembrance

Engage children in discussions about the lessons learned from 9/11 and the importance of preventing future tragedies.

10. Utilize Educational Resources

Explore websites, museums, and books that provide age-appropriate information and activities related to 9/11. These resources can supplement your conversations and deepen children’s understanding.

Suggested Resources
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Scholastic: How to Teach Your Students About 9/11
Educator’s Guide to Teaching About 9/11

How to Draw the 9/11 for Kids

Drawing the events of September 11th, 2001 (9/11) can be a helpful way for children to process their feelings and understand what happened that day. It can also be a valuable tool for teachers and parents as they discuss this important event in history with their children.

Here are a few tips for drawing the 9/11 for kids:

Start by talking to your child about 9/11 and what they know about it. This will help you gauge their understanding of the event and guide the conversation as you draw.
Use simple shapes and lines to draw the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and the Statue of Liberty. You can also add details like the flags waving at the top of the towers or the smoke coming from the Pentagon.
Encourage your child to express their emotions through their drawing. They may want to draw sad faces on the people in the drawing or use dark colors to represent the smoke and flames.
Once your child is finished drawing, talk to them about what they drew and what it means to them. This will help them process their feelings and understand the significance of this event.