Creating a Family Crest

In medieval times, family crests were used as a representation of what was important to that family. Crests used symbols and colors to convey their values.

During Thanksgiving, many families ask each family member to share what they are thankful for. A great extension is to discuss what your family values are and create a Family Crest to express it. Some questions you can ask to help in its design are:
1. What makes your family different from other families?
2. What activities or hobbies do you do as a family?
3. What are your family values? (honesty, loyalty, hard work, etc.)
4. Is there an animal that represents your family values?
5. What words represent your family?
6. What colors represent your family?

Crests are supposed to be very recognizable. The colors you choose mean something:
GOLD: Generosity, Academic
SILVER or WHITE: Peace, Sincerity
RED: Strong, Generous
BLUE: Honest, Loyal
GREEN: Hope, Joy, Loving
BLACK: Constancy
PURPLE: Royal, Just
ORANGE: Ambitious

Creating a Family Crest is a wonderful way for the entire family to clarify their values. It can bring generations together to have a meaningful conversation about what is important and held in high esteem. It's a great opportunity for children to gain insight into the family's history and the core values that have sustained them.

There is a Family Crest template in the "Don't Be That KID! At School Resource Guide". Use it to help you create your crest or design your own!