New study shows shared memories are key to a child's well-being.

When it comes to childhood, memories are everything. They are what we look back on with fondness and happiness, and they often define who we are as adults. That's why it's so vital for parents to make time to share memories with their children – and not just big life events, but the everyday moments too. According to a new study [1], these shared memories play an important role in a child's well-being later in life.

Coaching mothers to share memories helps teens make sense of their lives.

New conversational strategies taught to moms 14 years earlier resulted in 15-year-olds telling more cohesive tales about major life events, according to a research. In other words, the children of mums who had been coached to share memories could better make sense of their own lives.

Daily connection with your children can prevent depression.

This is just one more of the reasons why parents should make an effort to connect with their children on a daily basis. By sharing memories, we are giving our children the tools they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives.

How memories shape our lives

The study, conducted by some researchers based at the University of Otago, found that children who had more shared memories with their parents were more likely to report higher levels of well-being as adults. In particular, they found that these children were more likely to have positive relationships and be emotionally resilient.

What exactly is this conversational technique?

Elaborative reminiscing is a conversation technique where parents and children share memories, providing as much detail as possible. This helps children understand the events that have taken place in their lives and how these events have affected them. According to project leader Professor, psychologists working on the project report that children whose mothers had participated in earlier coaching sessions described complex life events like parental divorce or cyber-bullying with a deeper understanding of how the experience had shaped their personalities.

Create rich, detailed memories with your child

So the next time you're sharing a memory with your child, take a moment to really think about the details. What were you feeling at the time? What did you see and hear? By providing these details, you'll be helping your child to create a rich and detailed memory that will be a part of them for a lifetime.

So what does this mean for parents? It means that taking the time to share memories – both the good and the bad – with your children can have a lasting impact on their lives. It's one more way you can help them grow into happy, healthy adults.

Do you have any touching memories that you share with your children? We'd love to hear about them in the comments!