When a parent passes away, often times this is the first experience that your child might have with death. Most people lose a grandparent first before any other type of family member. I know that my first experience with losing someone I loved was when my grandfather passed away. I was young, and didn’t quite understand it. Subsequently, I have lost 2 more grandparents, and a great-grandmother. My Mother in law has also passed away. But, when a child is going through a loss like this, it might be helpful to look at the loss through their eyes.
For example, your childhood home may hold a lot of special memories for you. However, it may hold completely different memories for your children. Grandma and Grandpa’s house is a special place. Talking to them about their memories of that house, and the memories that they have with a loved one is a special moment that you don’t want to forget. Think about scrapbooking a layout that is all about the memories of a loved one through your child’s eyes.
I have blogged before about scrapbooking your childhood home. What if you also did a layout of memories that your children have in that same home? Start by asking them a few questions:
Do you remember going to Grandma and Grandpa’s house?
What was your favorite room in that house? Why?
What were some things you always did at Grandma’s house?
What was your favorite game to play with Grandma?
What did you most look forward to when we went to visit them?
What will you miss most about going over there?
You might be surprised to learn what they did when they were visiting your parents when you weren’t around. I know that I have fond memories of games I played with cousins at my family reunions, and toys that I always looked forward to playing with when we went to visit. I remember my Grandparent’s antique shop on their property and always looking at all of the old stuff with awe. I remember the pecan tree in the yard, and when they had chickens. It was a fun place to visit.
If there is not a home that they will remember, then think of doing a layout with just their memories about their grandparents. This could be a great addition to a memorial album for a lost loved one. Plus, it will be something to be treasured in your child’s album one day too. Regardless, childhood memories can easily be lost, so take advantage of asking your children when they are young, and still remember what their favorite memories are, and you will be forever preserving a part of your family history.
Meredith Ethington is the author of this blog. To learn more about Meredith, and her history with Scrapbooking and Genealogy, go here. < Return To Scrapbooking