By Melissa Borgerding
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

It’s not always easy to spend as much time as you’d like with 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 scheduled a trip with your best friend.

With families busier and more mobile than ever before, finding time for your grandchildren can be a real challenge, and so can finding activities that you both enjoy.

Fortunately, Highland Springs makes entertaining the younger generation easier than ever. Whether your visitors are the elementary-school set or teenagers, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone busy.

Here are just a few of the activities that Highland Springs grandparents and their grandchildren enjoy:

1. Dive in at the aquatics center.
Your young guests will be welcome to splash around in the heated, all-weather swimming pool when there’s not an exercise class or designated lap swim underway. Challenge that young swimmer to a race, or the athlete in the family to a game of water volleyball.

2. Enjoy a meal at one of the two restaurants.
The restaurants at Highland Springs are a fun treat for visiting grandchildren, and certainly convenient and easy for you. Dig into a casual lunch at Cotton Belt Cafe, where even the most finicky eaters are sure to find something to tempt their taste buds. Or, show off the next generation to your friends over a cozy dinner in Chisholm’s restaurant.

3. Shoot some pool or play a game of cards.
Challenge the family hustler to a friendly competition with a game of billiards. Or teach the card shark a few of your favorite card games. If you’re feeling generous, you might let your opponent win a hand or two.

4. Indulge in a little pampering with a manicure.
Make your granddaughter’s day by calling ahead for an appointment with the manicurist or beautician. It’s an easy “girls day” of fun at the on-site hair salon.