Family Crest

Social Studies Activity

Children can begin to think about their family histories and their own lives by making a family crest.

BACKGROUND
Discuss family crests. Then brainstorm with children to get ideas that could represent their family histories or lives. Here are just a few of the many possibilities:

• 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

WHAT YOU NEED

• A large piece of paper, at least 11"x14"
• The pictures
• Crayons, markers, pencil
• An outline of a shield cut from oak tag
• Glue (optional)

WHAT TO DO

1. On the large piece of paper, trace the oak tag shield or draw an outline of any shape (such as an oval).

2. Divide the shape into three or four equal sections.

3. In each section, draw a picture that represents one idea about your family. Some children may prefer to cut out pictures from magazines or use a family photograph. Another alternative is to use a computer, since this activity can be done easily with any drawing program.

4. Laminate the finished crests, if possible.

5. Have children share and compare their crests.