Family
History Your Kids Will Read
Many people desire to know where they come
from, but a sense of belonging is especially important for children and youth.
A knowledge about their family history gives children of all ages a sense of
their place in the world. It can also give young people something to live up
to—a legacy to respect. Family history also provides an opportunity for
children and teenagers to make a meaningful contribution to something bigger
than themselves.
Tell stories about your life and the lives of
your ancestors. Young people need more than facts and dates. They need the
facts and dates packaged in interesting, meaningful, and memorable ways. The
best way to create an interest in family history is by telling young people
stories about real people. Fill your stories with interesting information,
humorous details, and unusual facts that will capture a young imagination.
Sharing family stories doesn’t have to be a big event; make it a common
occurrence around the dinner table, in the car, or at bedtime.
Here are a few things I did when writing these
books for the young people in our family:
1. Checked
out children’s books from the library for reference. I particularly enjoyed “Mailing
May” by Michael O. Tunnell.
2. Make a
cover that will catch their eye and peak their interest.
3. Every
page should have a picture. If you don’t have one find one on the internet and
give credit when possible.
4. Use a
larger than normal print (this is nice for the older folks in the family as
well).
5. Add an
interactive page where they can trace or follow along with their finger.
6. Add a
fun fact or tidbits page in the back for facts that don’t fit in the narrative.
7. Don’t
forget to add a bibliography to show all of your sources.
8. Use some different backgrounds to add texture
and variety to pages but don’t make it too busy.
“Our stories . . . connect our lives to
others, bridge the gap of time and distance, and serve as a powerful motivating
source for good.” Tad R. Callister
Lisa
Leavitt: lgleavitt@gmail.com or lisa@shareyourmemoriestoday.com
Website: www.shareyourmemoriestoday.com
Blog: www.shareyourmemoriestoday.blogspot.com
