What do you think about the importance of rituals for children?

A growing number of people seem to think that many rituals are ridiculous or merely relics of the past. Many psychologists however observe that especially children love rituals. Is this related to their immaturity? Or is there a deeper purpose behind it? How important or unimportant are rituals? Are they beneficial or dangerous? Might rituals even cause people to become superstitious?

Here’s an interesting article:

“Ask any adult what they remember about childhood and they’ll recall an event that centered around a family tradition or ritual. The family meal, a holiday gathering or even a nightly bedtime routine are all memorable events in a child’s mind. Although a young child’s major objective is to become a separate individual, young children also need to form a strong concept of their place in a larger group: the family. Family rituals can enhance a preschooler’s identity, provide continuity during times of stress and connect generations in an enduring bond.

Kids find rituals fascinating – artistically, spiritually and emotionally. Ritual may already be a well-established, set routine in a preschooler’s family handed down through the generations. When you include young children in these important events, they will feel that they are an invaluable part of the family group. Preschoolers can be given jobs of honor such as being in charge of turning off the lights at family birthday parties when the cake is brought in or putting Great-Grandma’s silverware away after it is polished.”

http://www.childrentoday.com/articles/family/family-rituals-and-traditions-3064/

What is your opinion?