Did you have a stamp collection as a child? A rock collection? Or, wait, was it a coin collection? All your collections are probably still with you, or maybe they're stored in your basement somewhere. You understand the joy of running across this collection later in life and reliving your joyful moments with the collection as a child.

Now, you're the parent. What types of things do you want to help your child begin collecting? Some of the things to consider when helping your child begin a collection are the feasibility, the durability, and the lovability of the collection.

Feasibility is your first step when considering beginning a collection. Collecting pieces from ancient Egyptian ruins is probably not a very feasible collection to convince your child to begin. Number one it's illegal, as well as hard to find.

Other collections such as doll or furniture collections can begin to take up more room than you have available; thus, these are not very feasible either. Determine the amount of space you can dedicate to the collection as well as the costs that will be entailed before helping your child choose a collection.

The durability of a collection is also a consideration. The great thing about collecting stamps, rocks, or coins is that these things can last a long time when stored properly. My rock collection is still in the carton that I used to store it as a child.

Figurines and porcelain dolls are other examples of lasting collectibles. One of the greatest joys involved in a collection are the memories brought back when you revisit that collection as an adult.

Finally, the lovability of the collection is important. You are helping your child begin their first collection, and you want it to be something they will love and cherish when they look back on it in the future.

These are the times that you want them to be able to look back and remember about your relationship, so make these times special. For example, if you were to collect postcards, take special postcard collecting road trips. You will get to visit unique places while increasing your child's collection.

Most importantly, always support your child's hopes, dreams, and choices. Although collecting some types of artifacts is not very feasible, lead your child in a direction that will also peak their interest and support their dreams. Finally, enjoy your child as you help them create a wonderful collection to last a lifetime!

Janet Montie, quilter and author, contributes to FS Collectibles offering free information and resources for collectors. Articles by Janet can also be viewed at The Quilt Box and First Class Fabric