Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Memories & Smiles... the Importance of Children Having Printed Photos


As mentioned in our last blog, we are thinking a lot about the benefits to children of having and holding printed photos as they grow up.

A website we have found offering much wisdom about this, as well as photo-related tips and useful links is “Pictures Matter” at http://photoimagenews.com/picturesmatter/
 
An excerpt:
“While the advent of digital cameras has resulted in people taking more pictures, fewer families are actually printing them for inclusion in photo albums or to frame for display. By exchanging photos via email and storing them on disks or computers, parents are actually jeopardizing the emotional well-being of children who need to see pictures of themselves as they grow to promote self-esteem and security,” said Dr. Kenneth Condrell, family, teen and child counselor

In reading the entire article, we learn that photos help with keeping mental memories intact for the child who holds and views them.  Families have stronger ties and tend to exhibit better emotional well-being when photos are printed and made available for regular viewing. 

We regularly host Girl Scout troops at JMC, showing and telling them about the importance of photographs, as well as a little about taking them and things you can do with them. The response from the girls, their leaders and their families is very positive.  We hope all children have an opportunity to be exposed to this type of information about photos.

Oh, and Dr. Condrell also warns about deleting digital images.  Read more in the article to find out why! 

We would love to hear about the images your family values and views over and over.  What makes for a “feel good” photo for you? 

We encourage you to preserve your photos and to print your favorites, and not just for grandma and grandpa, and not just to put away for future generations, but for today.  Remember the last time someone shared a photo with you – bet you smiled and perhaps even had some memories flow back of a fond time or a favorite friend.

Memories Matter! 
Jen at JMC

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