Family traditions are important but many times when children hit their teenage years, they are sometimes stopped. I think there are two main reasons for this. One being that parents assume the teens are “too old” for those activities. Another reason being that our teens don’t act interested or they even come right out and say they aren’t interested, so we just go with it.
First of all you can never be too old for family traditions. These are special activities that are unique to your family. They give teens a sense of security and our children need that no matter what age they are. It also helps teens to feel like they belong.
One of the reasons that some teens go off and join gangs or engage in sexual activities is because they need to feel like they belong to someone. If we can provide that in their own family they will be less likely to seek it elsewhere.
As for teens not being interested, it may well be that they would rather hang out with their friends or occupy their bedroom but the truth is that deep down inside they appreciate being part of the family.
I remember last year when we were getting close to Easter and someone brought up the annual Easter egg hunt that their grandparents put on for them. One of my children rolled their eyes and I said, “Oh that’s okay. I can tell grandpa and grandma that you don’t want to do that anymore.” All three of my children quickly cried out, “No, don’t do that.” They were acting disinterested but deep down inside they were excited.
Nothing brings me more joy than to gather as a family and bring up old memories. I love when my children remind me of things from the past. Memories are important and family traditions are one way to build on those memories.
So don’t stop family traditions just because you have teenagers. If anything, put in some extra effort and make them extra special.
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