Your Grandchildren Need You

Spending time with your grandchildren builds strength in your family. Furthermore, their memories of these experiences will help them model themselves after you when they become parents and grandparents.Your time and attention are more valuable gifts than material things. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning ways to spend time with your grandchildren:

• Invite one grandchild at a time to visit, so you can give him or her all your attention.
• In as many ways as practical, treat your grandchildren as equals. Some psychologists claim that children react best when treated as though they are already what they are capable of becoming.
• Let your grandchild experience things at your house that he or she doesn't get a chance to do at home.
• Ask about and compliment your grandchild on appearance, manners, schoolwork, 4-H, scouting, musical achievements, art work, and anything else that is important to him or her.
• Let your grandchild "help" when visiting: hold the mixer, set the table, feed the cat, hammer a nail, etc.
• Read, tell tall tales, or play games that you enjoyed as a child.
• Plan short, inexpensive outings in the area where you live. Consider parks, dams, museums, a library, visiting friends, an ice cream store, or a sporting event.
• Listen to the child's troubles, but don't sympathize with complaints about parents. Don't come between grandchildren and their parents.

Adapted from "Grandpa and Grandma - You Are Needed," by Leo Yates, Former Extension Family Life Specialist, Cooperative Extension Service, New Mexico State University.

Reviewer: Dan Lago, Ph.D., Penn State Extension Aging Specialist, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences.

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Last modified Friday, November 16, 2007 16:35