Family stories are powerful
- Lisa Tanis
- Jun 6, 2018
- 2 min read
I can't believe it has been so long since my last post. I have been busy with my dads estate since he passed away in late February.
Both my parents are gone now. It is amazing how lonely the world feels sometimes. Family makes us feel connected and like we belong.
I have been going through some of my dad's pictures. There are so many emotions tied to each photograph. That is all I have left of both my parents....pictures. This month I am sharing a blog written by Cathi Nelson, the founder of APPO (Association of Personal Photo Organizers) The timing of her blog was perfect.
MAY 15, 2018 BY CATHI NELSON 333 VIEWS
PHOTO TIP TIME: FAMILY STORIES BUILD SELF ESTEEM
Families that refine and retell a unifying narrative about their positive moments and resilience during difficult times produce children who consistently show more self-confidence.
Families That Share Benefit
The New York Times published a great article by Bruce Feiler called, “The Stories that Bind Us”. He reports that families who refine and retell a unifying narrative about their positive moments and resilience during difficult times, produce children who consistently show more self-confidence. Knowing the answers to questions such as: Do you know where your parents grew up? Do you know the story of your birth? Do you know of an illness or something difficult your family has experienced? was the best predictor of a child’s mental health and happiness.
A way to help ensure your child knows these answers is to create a “Do You Know” photo book. This doesn’t need to take a lot of time or be overly creative. Think of 20 “Do You Know” questions about your family and include the answers along with a photo. The result will be a family photo book that can improve your child’s self-esteem and sense of belonging.
Another option for collecting family stories is through a smartphone app from companies like Saving Memories Forever. Use the app to collect audio stories from family members with the added benefit of having them archived and organized.
To learn more about sharing and capturing your family’s stories, read more at:
If you need help organizing and preserving your lifetime of photos, videos and keepsakes, find a photo organizer near you at the Association of Personal Photo Organizers.
Cathi Nelson is the founder of APPO (Association of Personal Photo Organizers) where she leads, trains and connects thousands of Photo Organizers from around the globe. Regarded as a pioneer in the photo organizing industry, she is a sought after speaker and has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Chicago Tribune, The Atlantic and Better Homes and Gardens.
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