A picture tree is a simple form of family tree, with the child representing the trunk and ancestors on different limbs of the tree. Family members closest to the child should be placed lower on the limbs, closer to the child. Grandparents, great-grandparents and other relatives are placed higher in the branches farther from the child. A picture tree can be a simple line drawing on paper or an intricate art project such as a collage on a wall or a beautiful painting.
A journal can be used to create a family book exploring a child's family tree. The first page may be titled "All About Me" with the child's drawings, photos and writing. The following pages can represent parents and siblings or pets with titles like "My Mommy" or "My Daddy and Me." The child should be responsible for putting most of the page together. For those wishing to dig deeper into family history, the book can contain pages about grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members. A family book with each page representing a different family connection can be treasured family memento. The book can even be updated over time.
Record the child interviewing family members. Prior to the interview, help the child develop a list of questions about family history, stories or historical events that family members can answer. Some questions might be: How did you and Grandma meet? Did you have penny candy when you were little? What was the most interesting thing that ever happened to you at work? Recordings provide an opportunity to document family history and events in an unusual way.