By Barbara Bietz -- Creating a family tree is a wonderful way to share stories.
Stories that stay with family members of all ages. What better way to recall the time Aunt Sally won a ribbon in the rodeo or the way Grandpa proposed to Grandma after their first date? A family tree craft project can be as simple as poster board using colored markers or as elaborate as a felted board with photos and embroidery. Some ambitious folks might even create a quilt squared for each family member!
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Like A Maccabee - This middle-grade chapter book tells the story of Ben, a 10-year-old boy who is gearing up for a championship soccer game while adjusting to the changes in his family that have occurred since his grandfather moved in. Ben faces challenges at school, including the bully from the opposing soccer team, and frustrations at home.
But what happens after you have listed all the family members you can recall and there are still empty spots on your tree? There are many sources you can use to trace your ancestry.
With a bit of time and research, you can also find many free-access web sites. Genealogy Online For Dummies
The National Geneology Society found at www.ngsgenealogy.org has a membership fee but offers lots of tips for teens and other interesting information. Another popular fee-based site is www.Ancestry.com.
Depending on the path your family wants to embrace, there are many related activities that can stem from your family tree. How about a weekly family dinner night? Maybe Mom’s family comes from Italy and Dad is from New England? Have a pasta night one week, and seafood chowder the next! If you have a scrap booker or crafter in the family, a “before I was born” photo album is a great project.
Pull out a few family photos, old letters, and other memorabilia and get started on your own family tree project!
