Grandparents have a special place in a family. They are always there to play, shower you with love and even bring you a few surprise gifts. Grandparents and grandchildren can have a special relationship; one unlike any other in the family. However, some individuals have an easier time bonding with their grandparents than their siblings or their cousins.
Sept. 8 is Grandparent's Day. This day is an excellent reminder that the relationship between a grandparent and a child needs continual nourishment. Here are a few simple ways you can help your children have a special relationship with their grandparents.
1. Cook together
Spending time together is one of the fastest and best ways for your children to build a relationship with their grandparents. Cooking together is a great way for your children to learn something new and enjoy time with their grandparents. While growing up, some of my favorite memories were of sitting on the counter watching my grandma cook. When I was young, we would bake banana bread together, and she always let me lick the beaters. Today, she is still teaching me how to cook. Just recently she spent an entire day teaching me her secret to making homemade cinnamon rolls. Cooking together is something you can do together, no matter how old you are.
2. Make the time together educational
There is so much your children can learn from their grandparents about their life, family and more. Ask your parents or your in-laws to sit down with your children and go through old photo albums together. Letting your children see their grandparents in a different way can give them a new appreciation for their life and all they went through.
3. Write a letter or draw a picture
Not all grandparents live nearby. If the grandparents live far away, you can still celebrate Grandparent's Day by having your children write them a letter or draw a picture. Grandparents love to hear from their grandchildren, and it may just be something that brightens up their day.
4. Take advantage of technology
Technology is available that can make the distance seem smaller between family members. Skype and other video chat programs are excellent options that allow your children to interact directly with their grandparents. Even just a simple phone call is wonderful. Or, email recent pictures and home videos so your parents and in-laws can feel like they are a part of your children's lives.
5. Plan a trip together
Family vacations are a great way to bond and create memories. If your parents or in-laws live far away, find a destination in the middle and spend time there as a family or choose someplace you all want to visit. This is a great way to get your family out of the house and you can make it as fun, relaxing and educational as you desire.
The bond between a grandparent and her grandchild is unlike any other. Don't take that away from your children or your parents. Do all you can to let your children enjoy this special relationship and create lasting memories.
