Traditions are your family's footprint on your child's life memories. Whether or not he knows the words behind the traditions, he understands that the habits are important. As his language skills increase, you will have a better opportunity to explain the rationales and beliefs behind your family's habits.

Later, your child may question or even reject the traditions of your family. This is not uncommon in the rebellious teen years. But the memories of your family traditions will remain a constant.

Often it is those traditions that give a child a sense of self and purpose as an adult. It is surprising how many children come back to the traditions of their family when they have their own children.