The grandparent-grandchild relationship is special. The number of caring adults in a child’s life is an indicator of the child’s future happiness and success. For grandparents, their grandchildren can actually help to prevent dementia from occurring. All in all, the relationship can benefit the quality of life of everyone involved. But for grandparents, knowing exactly how to spend their time with their grandchildren is a challenge. Read on to find an activity to bond with your grandkids.
Take a Trip to the Library
What is a better way to foster the love of books other than taking a trip to the library? The library is not only free, but it also hosts various kid-friendly activities. Most libraries would have events planned such as weekly story times, reading challenges, and listening in to guest presentations.
Bake Cookies in the Kitchen
From following directions to patience as a virtue, baking teaches important life skills to your grandchildren. Grandparents do not seem to get irritated about the mess made, unlike mom and dad. If there is a family recipe, bonus points for passings the baking traditions to the younger generation.
Play Cards or Board Games
In today’s age of social media, good old-fashioned card and board games can be new and exciting for children. As a grandparent, you can teach them the ropes of chess or gin rummy. You may also be the only person in their lives that is willing to take part and play a full game of Monopoly with them.
Browse Through Old Photos
It is tradition to pass on the family history from one generation to another. If you need a quiet activity, grab an album of old family photos. Kids will often be fascinated by old photos and how life was during the olden days. There is always a good story behind every photo and this is a good opportunity to share the stories of your past with your grandchildren.
Read Books with Them
Reading aloud to children promotes early literacy and language development, and is usually associated with success in school. This activity promotes a lifelong love of reading, as well as the bond between adult and child
Share a Hobby
Retirement is the best time to explore outside interests. It is also a perfect opportunity for fun times with grandkids. It does not matter if your interest tends toward the creative, physical or even mechanical. Your grandchild would love to help you, especially if it is something that they have never done before, such as working on a classic car or knitting a blanket.
Visit a Children’s Museum
If you are a stone’s throw away from the city, you will likely have a children’s museum around the corner. For just a small fee, children’s museums allow kids and adults to learn, think and play. Kids can engage in dress-up, water play and make-believe.
From reading books, to fishing, and going on trips, there are many great ideas to spend time with your grandkids. The right activity can pose an excellent bonding experience that they will remember for a long time.
