Create a Family Flag

You’re probably aware of family crests and how common they were in the Middle Ages. These family “trademarks” helped to represent and identify aspects of a particular family. They often included their last name, a motto, and pictures or emblems that represented character traits the family was known for like, wisdom, leadership, or agility.
 
Today many governments and religious or business organizations have their own crest or flag with the same type of imagery and meaning. These emblems can represent their personal brand or values.
 
Have you ever thought about creating a crest or flag for your family? Flag Day happens every year on June 14 and designing a token to represent your family this year could be a fun, creative, and meaningful way to celebrate. A modern flag or crest can help each member feel empowered to realize their special role in the family unit. It’s a tangible way to remind your family members that each one is unique, has a voice, and plays an important role in the whole. All you need to create one are a few supplies and some creativity. You can make your emblem as simple or as involved as you like.
 
First, decide where you’ll display your flag – that will help determine which supplies are appropriate. You may choose something simple like construction paper and markers if you intend to hang your flag on the wall or refrigerator or choose more durable materials and sew them together if you intend to hang your flag outdoors or display it long term. Here are a few steps to help you decide what you’ll create:

1. Ask each member of the family their favorite colors and choose how you’ll incorporate them (it’s ideal to divide the colors equally on the flag). You can choose any shape you like including stripes, sections, or a unique repeating pattern.
2.  Decide which symbols represent your family. What do you like to do – as individuals and a group? What identifying qualities make each family member unique, and how can you incorporate them? You can draw or cut out special symbols to represent everyone and add them to the flag. (If you’re having trouble, check out this Pinterest search for ideas.)
3. Are there any specific words or phrases that should be incorporated? What feels true of your family? What values would you use to describe it?
4. Hang it up!

This small project could add loads of value and meaning to your family. It can help foster creativity and partnership, as well as a sense of belonging and pride.