Find More Time for Your Grandkids, and More Fun Activities to Share With Them
By Melissa Borgerding
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
Being a grandparent is a huge responsibility as well as a big reward. According to the Foundation for Grandparenting, a not-for-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 and more mobile than ever before, maintaining that close bond with your grandkids can be a real challenge.
When Grandchildren Roll Their Eyes
A busy schedule isn’t the only challenge facing grandparents. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) reports that grandparents who occasionally feel a little frustrated with distracted grandkids aren’t alone.
Say your grandson comes for an overnight visit, but all he wants to do is watch TV. Or maybe your granddaughter has her cell phone glued to her ear every time you see her. And 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 for your family—if you live at Monarch Landing, that is. Erickson has been bringing families together for 23 years. Communities like Monarch Landing are family friendly and great for grandkids.