Explore Your Family 
For grades K-3
It’s the beginning of a new year and we want to get to know the teacher, our classmates, and maybe ourselves a little better. Through this assignment children will develop a better understanding of how their family functions and renew their appreciation for various family members.
We are going to learn and explore our family by creating a family tree and researching our family history. You may complete the family chart I have provided or select one from the sites below; click here to view the basic family chart I have provided. Please review the sites below to learn about genealogy and the basic information to start your family tree.
The
World Almanac for Kids: This is a great site to review to learn more about
genealogy and tracing your family tree. This site gives the definition of
genealogy and gives you the basic information needed to start your family tree.
Kids’
Turn Central: This is great site to help kids get started with creating
their family tree. The site tells you exactly what you need to get started. The
site directs you to start with yourself, parents, move on to grandparents, and
if you want to research additional family members you can speak with living
relatives or go farther and search census records, parish, or newspaper.
Family Search: This site
offers free family history,
family tree, and genealogy. The information you entered will search records and
resources from around the world!
5 Ways to Get Kids Interested
in Genealogy: This is a really helpful site for parents and kids. The site
gives advice on how to get kids interested in genealogy by sharing your love of
interest with them. Read these interesting points and start creating your
family tree.
Family
Tree Chart Idea’s
Misbach Enterprises: This site
offers many great chart ideas for creating your family tree and studying your
family generations. Review the charts and explanation of each and decide which
chart would be the best to create for you and your family
Kids’
Turn Central: Basic Family Tree – This is an example of a basic family tree
named “My Family Tree.” Review and see if this chart is right for you and your
family. If so, click here.
Kids’
Turn Central: Teddy Bear Family Tree – This is another example of a family
tree where teddy bears are used. Review and see if this chart is right for you
and your family. If so, click here.
We have been brainstorming in class
ideas that could represent your family histories or lives. Below are some
additional ideas to add to your family tree/charts:
· Flags that represent the countries their families came from
· Pictures of foods that are common to their ethnicity
· Pictures that represent first or last names
· Drawings that depict favorite family events
· Photos that show family celebrations
