Sunday, July 12, 2009

How to Become a Better Grandparent

All grandparents want to play a critical role in their grandchildren's lives and be helpful. However, creating that crucial link takes more than just a simple wish. One has to get more creative and constantly review whether things are working out in relationships. Sometimes, a grandparent may be forced to play the role of a parent due to unavoidable circumstances. In such a case, they should remember that they have a distinct role in their grandchildren's lives.

The best starting point when trying to build a better relationship with grandchildren is to bond with them. This will involve spending time with them and taking part in activities that they like most. Play is definitely top on the list. This will create plenty of memories that will always be vivid in the child's mind. Understanding children requires that a grandparent get down to their level. They will therefore need to look at life from the grandchild's viewpoint, especially if they are young children. Children are not only innocent; they are genuine, curious, very energetic and fun to be around. Take their naughty stunts with a corrective grace.

Communication is another area that can help keep the relationship between a grandchild and their grandparent. Talk to them about issues that they have in their lives or things that they find interesting. Write to them or send them emails. Keep the content very simple and full of fun. It is wise to ensure that they enjoy reading those letters or emails. Appreciation is another key element that grandchildren understand and crave no matter how young they are. Appreciate them by praising every effort they make to learn new things. Additionally, be helpful and get involved in their activities. Cherish their art or gifts by placing them on a conspicuous place where they can see.

Give them an opportunity to be themselves. This way, the grandchild will be free therefore building a comfortable and friendly relationship. Do not try to control their schedule in a way that is unnecessary. Additionally, it is wise to find activities that both the grandchild and their grandparent can do together and have fun. For some it is singing while story telling works best for others. Some grandchildren will be content watching childhood videos and going through pictures. If telling a story, try to visualize it and give the child a role to play. Make it funny and real and allow emotions to flow.

Try to help the grandchildren develop their milestones without appearing to do so. Help them acquire the desirable characteristics by modeling these aspects in different circumstances. Finally, as they grow, move along with their developmental stages by adopting activities that are more advanced in nature. Develop a genuine interest in their life and always keep track of what is happening to them.

Grandchildren need to find reasons to spend time with their grandparents. Find out what they like and try to do it as often as possible. Be patient with them and take time to explain out things however simple they may seem. They will appreciate it as they grow.

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