Bonding with your grandchildren

As the grandparent, you're not obligated to play the role of scheduler and rule-enforcer the same way a parent does. While you certainly want to enforce rules that keep your grandson/grandaughter safe, (to make life easier we will use "him" from here on) you probably have more time to simply relax with him.

Grandparents typically have more patience for slowing down to the child's pace than do busy parents.

With time on your side, you can devote your full attention to his interests. Notice what catches his eye, what makes him smile or laugh. He's giving you clues. If he enjoys rolling a particular ball, roll it with him until he is done.

One grandmother comes to mind as a great example of this. Well into her 70s, she sat on the floor with her granddaughter to play horses until the granddaughter was tired of the game. She also read countless stacks of books, brought to her one by one ? not until the grandmother was bored with the routine, but until the granddaughter was finished. That kind of devotion builds a bond and precious memories that last a lifetime.

Show your grandson the world. This doesn't have to mean trips to America, or outside your own town for that matter. Young children are fascinated with the work that goes into building bridges or digging a hole with heavy equipment. They marvel at the packages stacked inside a delivery truck, or the racks of cookies coming out of the oven at the grocery store bakery. You can build warm memories simply by taking the time together to explore the world around you.

Go to the park, camera in hand. Children love to see pictures of themselves, almost as much as grandparents love pictures of their grandchildren. Read the paper for events at your local parks, local museums and other child-friendly activities. With a little homework, you'll find concerts, art-related events and plenty of other things to do.

Go for a walk in your neighbourhood or on the many trails in town. Listen to what your grandson is interested in and be open to trying new things together. One activity might be a popular outing for a while, but don't force traditions. Be willing to move on.

Share your knowledge, as is appropriate for his age. Teach him to cook, work with wood or wash a car. Keep on hand some favourite toys and activities. Most importantly, share your time, encouragement and love.

adapted from an article on Statesman.com