Family Traditions: The Ties That Bind
Have you ever stopped to think about all of the funny things
unique to your family? Things that we do as a family are our
traditions, and are part of what defines our families. Traditions
are generally things that are more than routine and often passed
down from generation to generation. They can be defined as
activities that a family does now, has done in the past, and is
likely to do in the future. Traditions are also family-specific.
That means that while a culture or an ethnic group might
influence the occasion that the family celebrates, the family puts
their own stamp on the way they celebrate it. There is not limit
to what a tradition can be, although most traditions revolve
around holidays and food. Traditions are usually something that
is a little more special—something that’s anticipated and that
you’re greatly disappointed if it doesn’t happen.
How do you identify yourself, in terms of your race, religion,
ethnicity or culture?
What are some traditions that you follow in your family?
What is a favorite family dish within your family?
What other foods are cultural specific to your family?
Is there special music that you identify with your culture?
Do you identify with any specific language as a part of your
culture other than English?
Assignment
Research the cultural history of your own family. Interview an
older family member to learn about the factors that have
historically/traditionally influenced your own family. What family
traditions were observed in the past, present or forgotten. Take
notes during the interview. Write a short report on the
interview. (2 typed pages)
Think about what was discussed during the interview. Identify
how your own cultural identity might be different than that of
your older relative. Write another short essay on how you feel
traditions have changed within your family and if specific
traditions should be kept alive or start new ones. (1 Page)
Person Interviewed_______________________________
Relationship to you________________________________
Date of interview_________________________________
Sample of questions to ask:
Where were you born?
What nationality is our family?
What forms of entertainment did you participate in during the
teenage years?
What family customs or traditions did your family observe as you
were growing up?
Were there any special holiday customs that your family
participated in while you were growing up?
What was family dinner like when you were a child?
What religion did your family practice?
What is your favorite family memory or favorite family story?
Do you have any heirlooms that were passed onto you by your
parents, grandparents etc.? What?
What is your favorite family photo? Do you keep scrapbooks or
photo albums? If not-what do you do with the family photos?
Did your family take any special family vacations? Where did you
go-what did you do on those vacations?