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5 Fun and Creative Genealogy Activities for Kids

Are you looking for fun and creative ways to engage your kids in genealogy? If so, you have come to the right place! In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the best genealogy projects for kids that are both fun and educational. From making family trees to researching their ancestors, these projects are sure to get your kids excited about their family history. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Have Kids Make a Family Tree

Making a family tree is a great way for kids to learn about their heritage and relatives. It can be a fun project that the whole family can participate in. Here are some tips on how to get started:

  1. Gather information - Start by asking older relatives about your family history. Write down everything you know or have them write it down for you if they are able.
  2. Make A Tree Chart - You can use construction paper, poster board, or even make one online using an app like MyHeritage. Draw branches coming out from the main trunk (you) and add leaves with the names of your ancestors. As you gather more information, you can keep adding to your tree chart!
  3. Have fun with It – Add pictures, mementos, and other keepsakes to make your family tree come alive!

Have Kids Interview Family Members

One great way to get kids interested in their family history is to have them interview relatives. This can be done in person, over the phone, or even via email or social media. Kids can ask things like when and where grandparents were born, what they liked to do for fun as kids, what their favourite foods are, etc. Not only will kids learn a lot about their own family history this way, but they will also likely develop a stronger bond with relatives.

Another option is to have kids research specific ancestors using online resources such as Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org. They can then compile all the information they find into a report or presentation that can be shared with the whole family. Not only is this a great learning experience for kids, but it is also a nice way for everyone to come together and share stories about loved ones who may no longer be with us

Have Kids Research Their Family History

Encourage kids to ask their grandparents about their childhood, what life was like when they were young, and any stories or traditions that have been passed down. Help them understand the importance of family history and why it is worth learning more about where they come from. Researching one’s family history can be a fun project for kids! They can start by looking through old photographs, asking relatives questions, and even visiting local historical societies. By doing this research, kids will not only learn more about their own personal histories but also gain a greater appreciation for the past in general.

Have Kids Create a Family Crest

A family crest is a great way for kids to learn about their heritage. By creating their own crest, they can add personal touches that reflect their interests and personality. To get started, have them research the meaning of each symbol on your family's crest. Then, have them design their own Crest using those symbols. Finally, help them paint or draw their design on a piece of paper or canvas. Displaying their work proudly will not only make them feel good but also teach other members of the family about where they come from!

Have Kids Make a Family Scrapbook

Making a family scrapbook is a great way for kids to learn about their heritage and develop an appreciation for where they come from. It can also be a lot of fun! Here are some tips on how to get started:

  1. Gather photos, documents, and other mementos that you want to include in the scrapbook. If possible, try to tell a story with these items by organizing them chronologically or by theme. For example, you could have sections on major life events (such as births, marriages, and deaths), places your ancestors lived or travelled to, occupations they held, etc.
  2. Once you have all your materials gathered, it is time to start putting the scrapbook together! You can either do this yourself or enlist the help of your kids (or both!). If you are doing it yourselves, consider using acid-free paper and archival-quality glue sticks so that the pages will last for many years.
  3. Do not forget to add captions beneath each photo or document explaining who is pictured/what is shown. This will help future generations understand what they look at when they flip through the pages decades from now.

Conclusion

There are many ways to get kids interested in genealogy and family history. One way is to involve them in creative projects that can help bring their ancestors to life. Here are some fun and creative genealogy projects for kids:

  1. Make a Family Tree – This is a classic project that can be done in several ways. You can use construction paper, popsicle sticks, or even yarn to create a family tree.
  2. Create a Family Crest – This is a great project for kids interested in art. Have them research their family name and create a crest that represents their family history.
  3. Write a Family History – This is a perfect project for kids who love to write. Have them interview family members and write a short history of their family.
  4. Make a Family quilt – This is a great project for kids who are interested in sewing or crafts. Have them create a quilt that tells the story of their family.
  5. Genealogy Scrapbook – This is a perfect project for kids who love to scrapbook. Have them create a scrapbook that tells the story of their family.

There are many other great ideas for genealogy projects for kids. The important thing is to get them involved and interested in their family history. By doing so, you will help them create a strong foundation for their future.

Creative Roots Genealogy is available to help you get started.  Contact us at www.creativeroots.family

If you are interested in getting started on preserving your own family's history, we've got a great free guide to help get you organized.

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Carol Walsh

Article by Carol Walsh

Carol Walsh is the CEO of Creative Roots, a professional genealogy company. She has a passion for preserving family history and storytelling. Carol's research methodology centers around fact-finding and publishing in a format that readers can use to preserve the stories. Her ultimate goal is to help families connect with their past and each other.