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What are you Passing On?
Our youngest granddaughter turned one a couple of months ago. She still seems so tiny, but compared to the pictures we scrolled back to from a year earlier, she has grown so much. Honestly, there are days I feel like that regarding my own kids! It seems like not that long ago, they were the ones having first birthdays, and showing off their new skills to whoever would watch. I was told back then that time would go fast, and I was told that as I got older it would go faster yet. In the midst of it all I don’t think I believed it. But they were right. And it causes me to think all the more about what I am passing on and how important creating memories with family truly is.
Back to the Basics
Now this post is definitely not meant to be all doom and gloom! Rather, it is just a back to the basics reminder of ways grandparents can influence and create memories with their grandkids. Creating memories with family is about capturing the essence of “togetherness” and building a foundation that lasts through generations.
We use the acronym L.A.S.T.I.N.G. and we believe the best way to take LASTING action is to be consistent, mindful and spontaneous. You literally have an unending buffet of opportunities!
What is L.A.S.T.I.N.G.?
Let’s do a little refresher of LASTING opportunities. As you read through the list below, pause for a moment to think of the ways you can implement each area into your relationship, focusing on creating memories with family.
L = Learn
We have skills and knowledge our grandkids (and sometimes our grown kids) need. How fun is it to teach someone to make a simple meal, tie some knots, or plant a garden? What is it that you can teach your grandkids?
Earlier this year my husband (Papa) spent numerous video chats with our oldest granddaughter teaching her how to do a rubik’s cube. Over time they got it! Now it’s a fun activity she can complete on her own, but it will always be “her and Papa’s thing”. These shared learning experiences are essential for creating memories with family.
A = Active
While distance can make this one a little bit tough, spending time just doing things with the grandkids provides incredible memories. Many of my recreational moments happen via zoom or FaceTime.
Paperball is a simple (yet really fun) game our family made up and loves to play virtually. You can read how to play here. Activities like these are perfect for creating memories with family, even when you’re apart.
S = Story
We need to tell our stories! Our grandkids can learn so much about their family’s history through our tales of the past. They don’t have to be long and drawn out, especially for younger kids.
Last year I wrote a blog post you might find helpful in this area. Check out Why Grandparents Stories Matter for Your Family’s Future. Storytelling is a powerful tool for creating memories with family, bridging the past with the present.
T = Talk
Our grandkids need seasoned adults in their lives. People who are a layer removed from their parents who are on the job 24/7. Grandparents are the perfect fit! Having ‘everyday’ kinds of conversations with your grandkids is so important. Also, weaving desirable character traits, and faith (depending on your family’s beliefs, of course) into your conversation in a natural way opens the door for continued dialogue on tough subjects in the future.
I = Invest
The stories of my husband’s grandma teaching us about managing money have lived on in our lives for over 34 years now, and will continue to influence us and impact us into our retirement years. Helping our grandkids understand what it means to be money smart, and quite honestly how to invest their time and talents as well, will help them for years to come!
Want to be more confident talking about money with your grandkids? Checkout 3 Ways Grandparents Can Teach Financial Health. Financial lessons are another avenue for creating memories with family that have lasting impacts.
N = nurture
Who shows love better, or offers more encouragement than a grandparent? This one’s easy for us! Sometimes though in our quest for nurturing our grandkids we forget about our grown kids. Don’t let your relationship with your grandkids be your sole focus. An encouraging and healthy atmosphere for your entire family is key! Read more about Bonding With Grandchildren: Setting Yourself Up for Success By Respecting Your Adult Children.
G = Gather
As grandparents we have a unique opportunity to help a grandchild understand how they belong in the family and to help them know what it looks like to develop familial relationships across generations. BINGO is one of our favorite games to play virtually and in-person we are going through a huge Cootie phase right now. Whether it’s playing a game, sharing a meal, virtually or in-person, gathering the family all together helps develop relationships across generations. Gathering is fundamental to creating memories with family, making each moment together count.
The Benefits of Consistent Connection
Creating memories with family through consistent connections, like regular snail mail, can be incredibly beneficial. Snail mail offers a tangible way to show your grandkids you are thinking about them. They get excited checking the mailbox, anticipating what surprise might be waiting for them. This excitement builds a sense of connection and belonging.
Moreover, writing and receiving letters helps improve literacy skills and encourages creativity. It provides an opportunity to share stories, impart wisdom, and exchange ideas. This simple act of sending mail can have profound effects on your relationship, making it a cherished ritual for both you and your grandkids.
We are so grateful for your commitment to grandparenting. At Over the River we are committed to sharing tips and ideas for all of these areas, and hope that they will help you build a LASTING relationship with your grandkids and create moments that turn into memories.
Remember, creating memories with family is not just about the grand gestures but also the small, consistent acts of love and connection that truly make a lasting impact.
By focusing on these principles and integrating them into your daily interactions, you are ensuring that your legacy is one of love, wisdom, and cherished memories. Happy grandparenting!