What children will learn
- Plan and ask open-ended questions, and listen carefully
- Understand how everyday life has changed over time
- Record and retell a personal history respectfully
You'll need
- This page printed
- A notebook and pen
- A phone or tablet to record audio (with permission, optional)
- Old family photos (optional)
How to do it
- Choose someone to interview — a grandparent, great-aunt, family friend or community elder — and ask if they'd be happy to share their stories. Interviews can happen in person or by video call.
- Read through the question list together beforehand. Let them know they can skip any question, and ask before recording.
- During the interview, listen more than you talk. Ask follow-up questions such as 'What was that like?' or 'Can you tell me more?' Old photos are great memory-joggers.
- Afterwards, write up three favourite stories or make a timeline of their life alongside events happening in Australia, New Zealand or the world at the time.
- Thank them with a card, and give them a copy of what you made before sharing it with anyone else.
Make it easier
Ask five questions only and draw a picture of one story you heard.
Make it harder
Interview two people from different generations about the same topic, such as school or holidays, and write a comparison.
Parent tip: Some memories, such as migration, war or loss, can be emotional — let the elder decide how much to share. For Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori families, follow your elders' guidance on what can be recorded or shared.
Family History Interview Questions
Name: ____________________ Date: ____________
| Where and when did you grow up? | What was your home like? |
| What games did you play as a child? | What was school like for you? |
| What did you do in the holidays? | What was your first job? |
| What food reminds you of childhood? | How was life different from now? |
| Who was someone important to you? | What are you most proud of? |
| What's a family tradition you love? | What advice would you give me? |
Ask permission first. It's okay to skip any question. Listen, take notes and say thank you.
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Fantastic work! Every little step helps you grow.