Be sure to tell some family stories over the weekend ahead. Emory University psychologist, Marshall Duke, has clear evidence about the powerful effect of these tales on children. Kids who know the story of their birth, where their grandparents grew up, and even stories of illness or terrible events that happen in families will benefit in the long run. The more children know about their family's history, the stronger their sense of control over their lives, the higher their self-esteem and the more successfully children believe their families functioned.
Stories about dealing with adversity as well as successes will increase your child's resilience. Feeling part of an extended family helps children moderate the effects of stress. Duke tells us that children have the most self-confidence when they have a strong sense of "inter-generational self." He says it matters for kids to know they belong to something bigger than themselves. http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/17/fashion/the-family-stories-that-bind-us-this-life.html?pagewanted=...&
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