If you've ever had to compile a family tree for school or a merit badge, then you've been introduced to genealogy, the study of ancestors. But genealogy doesn't have to stop at a chart full of "greats" and "grands." Here are some ways that youths — and adults, too — can bring history to life by connecting with relatives. In our fast-paced society, it's nice to remember you have roots.

INTERVIEW RELATIVES

Start with the oldest first. Record the conversation on tape or video. There are lots of interview tips at USGenWeb Kidz (www.rootsweb.com/~usgwkidz), the kids page for the online genealogy network USGenWeb. Some sample questions:

1. Did you get an allowance? What did you do with it?

2. Who were your childhood heroes?

3. Did you go to church when you were little?

4. What was a family dinner like?

5. What's your favorite memory from your wedding day?

6. How did you choose your children's names?

7. Did you serve in the military?

Alternately, instead of an interview, kids can start a letter exchange, writing to a relative each month asking a different question. Ask relatives to mail back their answers, along with copies of photos or other memorabilia. Compile everything in a keepsake binder.

FAMILY PROJECTS

1. Write down your family's holiday traditions, and ask how they got started.

2. Compile a list of family record holders: oldest, youngest, tallest, shortest, richest, funniest, most famous, best storyteller, most children, best dresser, most educated, etc.

3. Ask a relative for a favorite recipe, then make it together. Then compile a family cookbook, complete with memories.

4. Turn a world map into an ancestors' map by placing stickers on each country ancestors came from. Then explore the history, folk tales and foods of those countries.

5. Make a family timeline, integrating major family events (immigration, births, deaths, marriages) into events from American and world history.

6. Play the faces game. Line up relatives or photos and see who has the same eyes, the same nose, the same hair, etc.

SPRUCE UP FAMILY TREE

1. Illustrate each person's name with a photo or self-portrait.

2. Use different fruits — apples, pears, lemons, limes — to distinguish each branch of the family.

3. Instead of a tree, make a mobile. You'll need photos, string and dowels or a wire hanger. Start with yourself at the top, then parents below that, then grandparents below that.

4. Make a handprint tree. Trace each relative's handprints onto colored paper, cut them out, label them and use them for leaves.

5. Make a family T. Outline a family tree or pedigree chart on a T-shirt and have relatives fill in their names with permanent marker.

Sources: www.genwriters.com, www.teachnet.com, Family Fun magazine