FAMILY TRADITIONS

1. Let’s talk about family traditions. Why is it vital to have family traditions?
Family traditions are things that families do together on a regular basis. These things can be patterns of behavior, enjoyable activities or a certain food that a family likes.
Having family traditions is very important. First of all, they are fun. They unite families and bring them closer together, because family members can spend time together. Family traditions give young people a sense of belonging. Being a part of a family is more than living in the same home or having the same last name. It is about relationships and family ties. Traditions also give young people enjoyable memories. They help parents pass the family values to their children. Family traditions help children with their identity. They can figure out who they are in this world. Moreover, traditions give young people a sense of security: they know that they have a family to turn to in difficult times, that will always guide them and protect them. Thanks to traditions members of extended families can reconnect and have time to communicate.
2. Do you know any typical Belarusian traditions?
Most Belarusian traditions are connected to religion or holidays. Belarusian families gather together for Christmas and Easter. A characteristic trait for Belarus is that we celebrate these holidays twice, because there are two religions in our country. But everyone’s favourite is New Year’s night. Grown-ups and children decorate a Christmas tree and cook delicious food. At midnight they drink champagne and look for their gifts under the Christmas tree. It is also traditional to celebrate everyone’s birthdays.
Some families have a tradition to eat out or to go to some special places on a picnic. For example, a lot of people buy a pizza and go to the movies every Friday. It is also very popular to ride bikes nowadays.
And while we’re talking about Belarusian traditions I can’t but mention digging potatoes. It is more than just collecting vegetables. It is a tradition which allows people to talk, have fun and spend time outside. In the evening people usually have a meal together to celebrate.
3. Are there any special traditions in your family? There are some traditions in my family, too. For example, the members of my extended family always come to my grandma’s birthday party. People come from all over the country and even from Poland and Lithuania. On this day we always eat a big cake, drink tea and watch movies. It is a great chance to meet my cousins. We take a lot of pictures. Every time I look at them, I remember how much fun we have each year.

4. What questions will you ask your British peer about family traditions in the UK?
5. Can you give a piece of advice for people who want to have a tight-knit family?