Traditions can be an important grounding and stabilizing force for anyone, but especially a child. They also create connections and build relationships.
I have a mix of traditions - religious, cultural, family, friends, formal, casual, personal and a little odd.
I was raised Catholic so although I’m not very active in the church, when I do attend a mass, the familiar rhythm is comforting. I celebrate my Jewish heritage as well - mostly on Hanukkah and Passover. I love celebrating both of these holidays because we gather a motley group of family and friends of different ages and faiths to relax, laugh and eat good food.
Every Sunday my dad, brother and I play an online card game while on the phone and chatting. It started years ago as a COVID friendly stand-in for the weekly game I played with my dad in person but we continue because doing it virtually allows my brother to join as well. It’s a small thing but it’s a good way to catch up with each other.
Some of our family traditions are random. Like when we drive towards the center of town, someone will yell out “I see the twin towers first!” when the building where I so much of my 6th year of life doing physical therapy comes into view. I think it started as a fun game to make the medical experience easier for a young kid, but now it’s an unconscious reaction.
I am looking forward to passing on traditions to my child and building new traditions. Establishing weekly dinners with my parents, bedtime routines, celebrating 4th of July with my best friend and her family. I want to incorporate new traditions in my child’s life that connects them to their culture as well.
So, expectant mother, are there family, cultural or personal traditions that you would want your baby to experience in their adoptive family?
Comments