Creating Memories

 
 

Narrative

Memories are like a scrapbook filled with the people, places and experiences of our lives and the lessons we’ve learned from them. Memories give shape and depth to our perspectives. Fondly shared memories also strengthen the sense of kinship and continuity among the generations of a family. This is important to kids to show them what your priorities are from your experiences.

Illustration discussions:

  • Is the boy asleep ? What will he dream about next?

  • What is he dreaming about ? What was your last dream ?

  • What do you remember from your day? What do you remember from your family times together?

Activities

  • Help capture the memories of everyday life as well as milestone events with photos, memorabilia, writings, etc. Work together to curate and preserve those with special meaning – this can be done via, scrapbooking, journaling, photo book or digital album, keepsake boxes, and so forth.

  • Celebrating memories can be as simple as asking, “Remember when . . . “ to get the conversation started. Asking questions such as, “Why was that {event, person] so memorable to you”, or “What did you/we learn from that experience” may lead to a greater understanding of our perceptions and perspectives in life.

  • Share your own memories liberally. Children love to hear and retell family “lore” – it makes them feel connected to their extended family and their family history.

  • A favorite question is “Who is the oldest person you remember when you were a kid, and what did they tell you about?”