Regardless of whether you are living next door to your grandchildren or are many miles away from them, most grandparents would agree that it is important to maintain a close relationship with their grandchildren. How can you maintain a strong bond that can last years down the road as children have a high tendency to easily get distracted by technology and friends? Here are some grandparenting tips that can help you achieve just that.
Be Their Cheerleader
From the moment a child is born, they are always trying and learning new things. Grandparents can be a child’s greatest fans because they do not have to be the discipline master. That does not mean that you just let them be if they misbehave while in your care. However, it is typically their parents’ job to instruct them on the right way to behave. As a grandparent, you just need to show them support in all their endeavors to encourage them to be the best in whatever they do. Your enthusiasm will be a form of motivation for them to always put their best foot forward.
Spend Time Together
You do not need to be rich to make your grandchildren happy. All you need is to invest some time with them together. Simple life pleasures like reading a book to your grandchildren, playing in the park, taking a stroll along the beach, and others will definitely let your grandchildren feel the love you have for them. These simple gestures are the ones that children will appreciate most and make them feel cherished and loved.
Listen to Them
Listening is an art. Most people do not really understand how to just listen. They often listen to respond instead of listening to understand. When children are feeling upset or frustrated, they want someone to listen to them vent or express themselves. Sometimes that is all that they need, instead of advice or criticism. When listening, make eye contact with your grandchildren to show that you are giving them your full attention. That level of care is what will calm them down and relieve part of their sadness or frustration. Before you respond, think of words that will not further aggravate them. Piece your words nicely so they will remember your wisdom throughout their entire lives.
Remember What Being Young Feels Like
What did you enjoy doing the most when you were young? Do you have any favorite foods? What was the most important thing to you when you were young? Figure out if any of your favorite things and foods are also what your grandchildren love. With something in common, you can relate to one another. Do not despair if your grandchildren do not like what you liked before. Simply share with them your personal interests and create meaningful conversations out of your favorite things to do and favorite foods to eat. They will also share with you what they love eating and doing and you can try out new things that you did not have the chance to when you were younger.
