When it comes to connecting with grandchildren, grandparents can enjoy nearly limitless options. A lot depends, however, on the child himself/herself and the grandparent, as well. Personalities, budget considerations, transportation availability, time constraints, medications – the list goes on and on – can have an influence and may, in some cases, limit those options.
It’s good for the mental health of a retired person to have an active role in the life of their grandchild. Just being an active presence in their life promotes wellness. This generation-skipping bond enriches the lives of both young and old.
To help grandparents better connect with their grandchildren, and make the most of their time together, rather than talking to the grandparents themselves, we decided to go a different route. We accessed any number of grandchildren and asked them for their opinion. The following is an analysis of that endeavor.
Concentrate on Your Health
If your health is suffering, you will likely feel less like having fun with your grandchild. Worst case scenario, if your health fails completely, you simply won’t be there for them. Wouldn’t it be a shame to miss out on an opportunity like spending quality time with your grandchild just because you didn’t take the time and effort to care for yourself? It’s unthinkable. Stick around for a long time so you can spend year after year with your grandchild. Enjoy having fun, both of you learning things, and developing a deep, unbreakable, incomparable bond.
Consider the Personality of Your Grandchild
Greater closeness of contact is enjoyed when grandparent and grandchild personalities match. Naturally, a perfect, 100% match is not always possible. But with similar personalities, a closer bond is achievable.
As an example, you may have several grandchildren. You love them all, but whether you want to admit it or not, you have a favorite. What makes them particularly special? Chances are, your personality and theirs are very close.
While still in their early years, they are developing a personality that is adjusting. You may do a little adjusting on yours, as well. You don’t want them to feel challenged by your personal style, but rather, comforted by it.
Be the Best Grandparent You Can Be
Grandchildren feel closer to grandparents who excel at the task – which really isn’t a task at all, but more of an honor. When your grown child sees you grandparenting at a higher level, it trickles down to their children (your grandchildren). If you allow your grandchild to feel well cared for and safe, they will feel far more comfortable with you, as well.
Your Relationship with Your Children
Though, if you already have grandkids, your children aren’t so much children anymore. Regardless, it’s important that your relationship with them be at its best. If you want to stay in touch with your grandchild and see them on a regular basis, you’re going to have to nurture your relationship with your child more than ever.
Get an Early Start
The moment that grandbaby is born, you are a grandma or grandpa. Don’t wait until they’re old enough to walk around the zoo to get to know them and spend time with them. As their vision and coordination develop, make sure you are one of the people they see and touch on a regular basis. Rock them as a baby. Feed them. Bounce them on your lap. Read to them, even as an infant. They might not remember the specifics – but somewhere deep inside, they’ll remember the feeling.
Conservatory At North Austin Promotes Health and Wellness So You Can Be There for Your Grandchild
Through Conservatory At North Austin’s Celebrations Activities and Events program, we can help you remain cognitively strong, healthy, and happy. That provides you the best chance of being there for your grandkids for a longer time.
Spend each day exactly the way you choose. Fill it up with fresh new events, exciting activities, and socialization. Start your day by attending an art class or with an energizing workout or something a little more laid-back. Stop and take in a movie at the theater or join in a sing-along. Though there are lots of choices included in Conservatory At North Austin’s activity calendar, the best part is that, from month to month, it’s never the same. There’s always something exciting and new to do.
Look through our photo gallery online or, better yet, schedule a tour so you can view, in person, everything we have to offer. This is retirement as it should be! If you prefer, you may phone us at 512-601-8242 or, with sales and leasing inquiries, please phone 512-601-4078. We are looking forward to speaking with you soon.
