Find more time for your grandkids, and fun activities to share with them

By Melissa Borgerding and

Danielle Rexrode
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Being a grandparent is a huge responsibility, as well as a big reward. According to the Foundation for Grandparenting, a notfor- profit organization, the unique bond between grandparent and grandchild is second only in emotional importance to the bond between parent and child.

In fact, children whose grandparents play an active role in their lives tend to be more confident, have a more positive identity, and even do better in school.

Finding time for family
But it’s not always easy to devote as much time as you’d like to your grandchildren. On the one afternoon you have free, they have a soccer match out of town. On the weekend they’re home from college, you’ve already committed to a trip with your best friend. With families busier than ever before, maintaining that close bond with your grandchildren can be a real challenge.

What to do when your grandchildren roll their eyes
A busy schedule isn’t the only challenge facing grandparents. The AARP reports that grandparents who occasionally feel a little frustrated with distracted grandchildren aren’t alone. Say your grandson comes for an overnight visit, but all he wants to do is watch TV. Or if your grandchildren roll their eyes when you suggest an activity that all of you once loved to do together—well, don’t worry too much. This is just a stage that they’ll outgrow soon enough.

Bringing generations together
In the meantime, there’s plenty you can do to make the most of the precious time you make for your family—if you live at Charlestown or Oak Crest, that is.

You’ll see kids and grown-ups alike splashing around in the all-season swimming pool, teenagers forgetting about their video games and challenging their grandparents to billiards in the game room, and multiple generations enjoying savory meals at the on-site restaurants.