Parents in Action:The Importance of Grandparents

Grandparents always play a special role to their grandchildren. From the fascination of the generation gap to their limitless worldly knowledge, grandparents provide answers and conversation that is unimaginable to their grandchildren. The bond between a grandparent and their grandchildren is special and unique one, because unlike parents, they can truly enjoy their time together without the stress of being the actual parent.

Grandparents are not only the safety net for their own kids, but they are also a safe haven for their grandchildren. Kids tend to divulge more information to their grandparents because it feels safe and free of punishment. Grandparents typically take on the role of buffer between their own kids and their grandchildren.

Grandparents are also unsung heroes. Not only are the typically able to help out in a time of need, they are trustworthy and willing. Having grandparents geographically close allows parents to have a babysitter that they know and trust, and typically don’t have to pay! When emergencies happen, they are always there to help you out. Grandparents can truly be a lifesaver if you let them. When you’re unsure of the activities your kids and their grandparents can do together, the options are near limitless.

Take a monthly trip to your local library where grandparents can choose books from their childhood and shares them with the kids.  Museum and live theater are a great way to spend time together. In the Tampa Bay area there are several places to choose from.

www.glazermuseum.org

www.mosi.org

www.tampaartmuseum.org

www.strazcenter.org

www.rutheckerdhall.com

www.largoarts.com

Spend time in the kitchen. Take out the apron, the recipe box and cook something from your family history. It’s a great way for kids to learn how to cook and talk about their heritage with family elders. The occasional food fight isn’t bad either.

Teach a child how to fish. Fishing is an American pastime and a great way to spend a summer afternoon with the grandparents. Teaching kids how to wind the rod, bait the line and catch fish is fun and a great way to spend some time talking. You can even teach the older kids how to filet the fish.

Break out the arts and crafts. Grandparents grew up with a lot less technology than their grandchildren and probably learned how to sew, knit or scrap book at a young age. Sharing these talents with them is a great way to create keepsakes for them to remember their grandparents by.

Share some family history. Grandparents’ stories are full of history. Grandkids love to hear from different generations about what life was like when they were growing up. This is a great time to share family history so it can continue on from generation to generation.

It is never too late to start keeping a family tree. It’s a fun and fascinating project for everyone who is involved.
Grandparents may not always be able to be a part of your child’s life, but if it is possible, be sure to take advantage and urge that special bond to happen. Your parents and your kids will thank you down the road.

Sources:
www.parentingwithangela.com
www.tbparenting.com

Resources:
www.grandparents.com