In years past, a home consisted of three generations (sometimes even four) of family. The live-in grandparents had daily exposure to grandchildren and served as educators and role models, passing along family history and values.
Times have changed and today's Grandboomer is an independent person, most likely living some distance from the grandchildren. Time spent with grandchildren is measured in hours rather than years. But, there is a way to spend quality time with your grandchild(ren) that can be very rewarding for all of you. Take a trip together.
Travel with your grandchildren is not a simple undertaking. It's important to plan the trip so it's enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tips:
* Before you start out, be sure you understand any and all special needs the children may have. This goes for medications, diet, rest, etc. A long talk with the parents is in order.
* Use the age of the children to determine the length of the trip. The younger the child, the shorter the trip. However, since this is to be extended time...the shortest trip should be a week.
* The above yardstick should also be used to determine the distance you travel. You don't want to spend all your time getting to and from your destination.
* As soon as you arrive, call the parents and let the children speak to them. It's reassuring for everyone. The children may want to phone home daily to talk about their adventures. This is a very positive thing to encourage.
* When planning your itinerary, consider the ages of everyone involved and plan accordingly. Remember, this trip is primarily for bonding, so activities should be enjoyable for all.
* Pack some first aid items. This includes such items as a washcloth and some TP.
* Let the children bring favorite toys...from stuffed animals to Gameboys.
* Don't try to do too much in a day. You may not be up to the activities, and the kids will get cranky when overtired.
* Here's a very important tip for a successful trip. The children will enjoy the trip more if events take place at their pace. Let them determine how long you visit a site. If they say, can we leave now, take that as gospel that they've had enough of that venue. It's time to leave. If there's more you want to see, consider coming back another time on your own.
* This is a fun time. If rain, sickness or some other inconvenience interrupts your schedule, have or make an alternate plan. Be upbeat. If you start to get down, the kids will pick up on it immediately and the trip will turn sour in a hurry.
* Selecting places to eat, should include input from the children. You may like Chinese food, but will they? There may be a nice compromise between fast food and gourmet dining. Meal time should be a happy time.
* The same applies to where you go and what you see. Have a good idea of their interests and be sure to include visits to places they'll enjoy. Grandboomers will bet you'll be surprised at how much fun a children's museum or kiddie park can be for you as well.
* If you have more than one child with you, make sure each of you spends time with each child.
Grandboomers could continue this list ad infinitum, but you get the idea. Have a good time together, visit places of mutual interest, don't spend too much time at one location...unless the children want to. Most of all, remember the purpose of this trip is to spend quality time with your grandchild(ren). Put them above all else on this trip and have a good time.
© 2012 Created by Myles Bristowe.
