Family traditions are an enriching part of any child’s life and they’re a great gift that parents can provide for their families. Often when we talk about family traditions we think of holidays, major life events, pageantry and expense. And after all of the bother, they can be considered compulsory, constricting and boring, especially when some family members don’t feel they were allowed any input on planning the activity.
Family traditions don’t always have to be expensive or elaborate. In fact, they can be more rewarding when they are not heavily scripted, but are spontaneous and natural. They are most successful when you include all family members in the planning as well as the activity. They can be very simple, such as going for a family walk at a designated time, or arranging to have one-on-one time with each child, even if only for a few minutes.
A family tradition starts as any activity that you do together that is enjoyable and meaningful. It can be completely unplanned and ends up being so fun that everyone wants to do it again. Sometimes these traditions are formed very intentionally, or they can evolve incidentally. Either way, it has value. It creates memories and strengthens emotional bonds within the family.
Family traditions help children feel part of a warm, accepting community, especially when the activities are voluntary. They increase feelings of self-worth. Start a tradition in your family today!