Establish Traditions: Seattle Mama Doc 101
Establishing traditions can be an incredible way to connect, mark time, and affirm a sense of well being in your family. You can establish any tradition you want–one of the rare perks of being a grown-up. Even if family circumstances change (a divorce or separation, a death in the family, a move to a new city) you can adapt, addend, and alter your traditions. Your kids can help you sort out new rules as necessary. Those traditions really may establish a sense of calm for your children.
And really, as you make or restart some traditions at home, don’t stress about extravagance. Sometimes the best traditions are the most simple and come with absolutely no price tag. A walk with a football after dinner each Thanksgiving. Unscheduled or unplugged time the same day every year. Eating pickles on Black Friday. Standing outside in the snow as the New Year arrives. Whatever it is, it can be all yours. And your children will remember.
Start or establish rituals this holiday season and then repeat, repeat, repeat. Share your favorite traditions; what can we all be doing that we haven’t thought of?
Create A Spirit of Giving
15 Meaningful Holiday Traditions
Claire says
A wonderful reminder – I LOVE traditions! We have so many from my childhood and are really enjoying creating our own. Some November/December holiday favorites of ours – finding a tree and decorating with the kids. Finding an ornament for the kids to represent something about that year. Building a gingerbread house. Singing over the River (again and again and again) and Good King Wenceslas. Carolling parties with friends and family. Sinterklaas traditions with our family. Listening to Christmas in Wales. Sibling gift exchange on X-mas Eve and Christmas Crackers. News Years ski or hike. And on and on! So many ways to celebrate without having to buy much. I love it.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Thanks, Claire. And you, you’re the best at establishing and maintaining traditions. An ongoing inspiration for me!