Lesson 7, Ex.

2
Family traditions are things that families do together on a regular basis.
These things can be patterns of behavior, enjoyable activities or a certain food that
a family likes. They can be repeated daily, weekly, monthly or once a year. It is
important for families to observe their traditions even as their children get older,
here are five reasons why:
First of all, family traditions create good feelings and special moments to
remember. They are fun things to do. These are the memories that will last a
lifetime.
Family traditions give every member of the family a stronger sense of
belonging. Being a part of a family is more than living in the same home or having
the same last name. It is about relationships and family ties. Since family traditions
are something you do together, they strengthen the ties you have between each
other creating a stronger sense of belonging to the family.
Family traditions help children with their identity. It helps to know that you
‘belong’ when you are trying to figure out who you are, which is a main job of the
teenager.
Family traditions help parents impart the family’s values to their children.
To start, you get more time to model your family values to your teen. You will also
find more opportunities to talk to your teen about serious issues and keep the
conversations light.
Family traditions offer children a sense a security. Everyday a teen faces
some very difficult issues. Knowing that he/she is secure and has a family to turn
to is a powerful tool to use against negative peer pressure, drug use influences, etc.
There are more reasons for families to observe their traditions, but the five
above are the most important for families to remember.