Find More Time for Your Grandkids, and 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-forprofit 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 grandchildren can be a real challenge.

What to Do When Your Grandchild Rolls Her 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 grandchildren 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 make for your family—if you live at Monarch Landing, that is. Erickson has been bringing families together for more than 23 years. Communities like Monarch Landing are family friendly and great for all generations.