Mike Smith:
As you teach your children family history, consider including your cultural heritage. There are many areas of this that you can choose to emphasize.

As part of your civics program, you and your children might want to study the political history of your cultural background. Here are some suggestions to get you started: what nationalities were your ancestors? Did they come from countries known for political freedom or repression? How did rulers come to—and stay in—power in their country? Did the people historically have a voice in their government? Has that changed over time?

Another fascinating element of heritage is the culture itself. Have you investigated the contributions made by your ancestors’ country of origin to the fine arts? You could incorporate research on your heritage into your student’s art, literature, or music studies.

Have you considered doing a study on the inventions that came out of your cultural heritage? Students with a hands-on learning style might enjoy creating models of significant inventions or innovations in everything from machinery to architecture.

As part of your Bible or religious studies class, your students could trace the history of faith in your cultural heritage. What impact has Christianity had on the culture through history? Who were important missionaries and church leaders?

Have fun teaching your children about heritage! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.