Here's What To Do
Select an object from the past that means something special to your family. It can be an old family heirloom that was passed down to you from an older family member, or it can be something from more recent family history (like your child's first pair of baby shoes).
Ask your child to describe what they see and how they think it might have been used.
Explain the history of the object and any memories it brings up for you.
Ask your child to explain how this object from the past is connected to them in the present ("now"). Why do they think this object might be important to your family? How does something old connect to what is happening right now?
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Get on eye-level and sit close to your child during this activity.
Engage:
- "Do you know what this is? Tell me what you notice about this object. What do you think it was used for?"
- "This pocket watch belonged to my great grandpa. He gave it to my grandpa, who gave it to me."
Encourage:
- "This is a part of our family history, which means our past, or things that happened before. Why do you think it might still be important to me now?"
- Know that time, especially things that happened a long time ago, can be abstract for children. Talking about a concrete object might help them make the connection, but "the past" may still be a bit confusing.
Reflect:
- Ask your children, “What things would you like to save and share with younger family members when you get older”?
Not quite ready?
Show a family heirloom to your child and tell them its story.
Ready for more?
Have your child make a drawing that shows your family "then" and "now."
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to understand how past and present events connect to each other.