By Janet Dengel Ask any adult what they remember about childhood and they'll recall an event that centered around a family tradition or ritual. The family meal, a holiday gathering or even a nightly bedtime routine are all memorable events in a child's mind. Although a young child's major objective is to become a separate individual, young children also need to form a strong concept of their place in a larger group in the family. Family rituals can enhance a preschooler's identity, provide continuity during times of stress and connect generations in an enduring bond.
Children love rituals.
Children find a certain security and solace in something that gives a sense of belonging and comfort explains Dr. Martin V. Cohen, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Marital and Family Therapy Clinic at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. Rituals Enhance a Preschoolers Self-esteem. Ritual may already be a well-established, set routine in a preschoolers family, handed down through the generations. When you include young children in these important events they will feel that they are an invaluable part of the family group. Preschoolers can be given jobs of honor such as being in charge of turning off the lights at family birthday parties when the cake is brought in, or putting great-grandma's silverware away after it is polished.