How to Build a Strong Relationship With Your Grandchildren

There is a major difference between how baby boomers grew up and how the current generation lives. Some may think this can create a divide between the two generations, as they might not know how to interact with each other. However, it can be the opposite, and create a bond. Seniors want to build and maintain a strong relationship with their grandchildren. Each of these generations were brought up completely different which can give them a chance to learn and bond with each other. Here are some ways you can build a relationship with your grandchildren.

Share Stories from Your Past 

One of the best things to do with your grandchildren is to share stories. Living through the different decades gives you the chance to share what life was like throughout those times. Grandkids of all ages will appreciate hearing stories from your childhood and the hobbies and activities you used to do. You can also share stories about the kids' parents when they were kids. Tell them funny stories about their parents that might not have otherwise heard about. Break out the photo albums and look at old pictures together so they can get a visual of what your life was like in the past. 

Passing on traditions is something else from your past that you can share. Family traditions such as cooking special foods for holidays and birthdays. Tell them what you used to do with your parents as kids and then continue the family tradition with your grandkids. Traditions bring families together and created long lasting memories, plus it's a great way to keep a tradition going through future generations.

Participate in their Interests

Participating in their interests is another great way to bond with your grandchildren. Listen to them when they tell you what they've been doing, and then join in. If they've started a new art painting project, see if you can join in or sign up for a painting class together. Go to their sports practices and games. Not only will you have fun watching them do something they love, but they will feel happy that they have the support from you. If you can't make it to one of their games, ask if someone who is going can have you on a zoom call so you can watch it live. 

Learn How to Use Technology 

The younger generation is surrounded by technology daily for school and personal use. It provides them with a way to communicate to their friends and family and gives them ways to be entertained. Older generations may not be as familiar with all of the apps used, but don't worry, most of them are very easy to learn and will help you feel more connected with your grandchildren. 

• Zoom or Duo - These are just two of the many apps that can be used for video calling. It's as easy as tapping 2 buttons to join a "meeting" with one or more other people. Once you're all connected, you can see each other face to face on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This makes it feel more personal rather than just talking on the phone. Seeing your grandchildren face to face will make you both feel happy, you'll be able to see any school projects they created, watch their sports games if you can't be there in person, or just catch up on what they did for the day.
   
• Messenger - Messenger apps are very common and have been around for a long time. They are used as a way to chat instantly back and forth. Use these apps to chat with your grandchildren to check in on how they're doing or to make plans to meet up. You're able to send pictures in these messages so share what you've been up to as well. Maybe you knitted a new blanket or completed a new project you want to show them. Your grandchildren will love seeing what you've been doing just as much as you love seeing them.
   
• Facebook or Instagram - These are two of the most popular social media apps. They're used to share pictures and status' of people's thoughts. Depending on their age, it's almost guaranteed your grandchildren will have one or both of these apps that they use. You'll get to see pictures of them with their friends, playing sports, or showing off their skills playing an instrument. This is a great way to stay connected and build a strong relationship with them. You can comment on the pictures or just scroll through an look, or get fancy and build some Instagram story designs with tools.

Spend Time One on One 

The best thing you can do to maintain a healthy and strong relationship with your grandchildren is to spend one on one time with them. Have them over for a sleepover and partake in activities with them. These will help create a bond and memories they will take with them.

• Play Games - The most classic way to spend time together is to play games together. There are tons of board games and card games out there for all ages. Find games that you'll all enjoy and play them often.
   
• Cook/Bake - Share old family recipes with them by baking and/or cooking. During the holidays they can help you whip up the dishes to share with the rest of the family.
   
• Watch Home Videos - Break out the old home videos and watch them together. If your grandchildren are grown, this can be a great way to bring up old memories from when they were younger. Seeing these videos will start a conversation. Go all the way back to the oldest home videos you have, perhaps of their parents as kids, or even yourself. It will be fun to see how different life was.
   
• Read Stories - Depending on their age, read stories with them. Young kids love being read to. You could even go to a library and pick out some books together to read. If they're learning how to read, get a book that involves reading from different characters and you can put on a "play" together.