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Traditions Work
Since leaving the Wall Street Journal in 1994, I’ve spent more than a decade researching and writing about contemporary family traditions. For my first book, published in 1998, I interviewed several hundred families across the country about their rituals and celebrations, along with many psychologists and religious educators. That book was followed by a more overtly how-to book in 2003. My passion for this subject has not lessened with time, as I try to spread the word about how ritual deepens all life experiences while strengthening family ties. The essence of my message is that very simple rituals that express the core values of parents are the most powerful tools for raising engaged, fulfilled, resilient children. I’ve written articles on tradition for such publications as Family Fun, Parents, Good Housekeeping, Working Mother, Family PC, Child, and Worth. Articles about my ritual work have appeared extensively, in such publications as People, Family Circle, Redbook, Essence, First for Women, Raising Teens and Natural Health. 
Previously, I was a paid columnist on family ritual for Moms Online, and since 2001, I’ve written a free monthly e-mail newsletter on the topic. My media experience includes extensive interviews on radio and television, both local and national, including regular appearances on NPR's The Parent's Journal. I’ve been hired as a traditions spokesperson by such major companies as Hallmark, Pillsbury and KFC Corp. I’ve also lectured widely at daycare centers, bookstores, parenting groups, children’s museums and workshops for religious educators. I often speak on why family rituals are so important and how to create memorable, meaningful ones. In 2004, Bristol Myers-Squibb bought 600 copies of "The Book of New Family Traditions" and gave one to each parent with a child enrolled at its subsidized daycare center. In 2005, I was honored to be chosen as the rituals expert for the book "You Can Do It! The Merit Badge Book for Grownup Girls." I was one of 60 "mentors" profiled at length. Testimonials:- From the Chinaberry Catalog: “If I were to recommend just one book to help parents instill lasting positive values and provide comfort and security, all while creating wonderful memories, it would be this one…. Meg’s 150-plus ideas for fun year-round celebrations make this a must-read.” - From Mary Pipher, family therapist and bestselling author: “In this dark time for families, Meg Cox is a tireless and patient teacher… Her book belongs on the shelf of every modern American family.” - From Andrea Ffrench, a subscriber to Meg’s Ritual e-Newsletter: “I am the mom of two kids under two, and some days it’s about sheer survival. But your books have really inspired me to inject some spontaneity around here and establish some new comforting rituals. Thank you for all your ideas!” - From Toby Wortman, director of the Merck Child Learning Center in Whitehouse Station, NJ: "My staff and I thoroughly enjoyed your workshop and the reason I know this is because they are still speaking about it two weeks later! I have many teachers who have been at the center for many years and they are so excited to hear new ideas, especially when they can be incorporated directly into their work with children. Thanks again. We are really looking forward to having you come back again to speak to the parents!" 
Purchase your copy of "The Book of New Family Traditions" at Amazon.com Click here to subscribe to my free monthly e-mail newsletter on family traditions.
*Photograph to the left courtesy Cindy Brown. |
