Will you get some time with your grandkids during the upcoming holiday weekend? For many, celebrating the 4th of July brings many opportunities to bond and create memories, and you might also have a chance to talk about the importance of independence and what makes our country great.
This is what summertime is all about! A few weeks ago we wrote about some things to keep in mind as you relate to your grandkids this summer. This week I want to add a few more ideas, and these are about just having fun. Maybe you can introduce a favorite “classic” summer activity to your grandkids.
What are your strongest childhood summertime memories?
Eating s’mores? Playing games? Catching lightning bugs? Surely your grandkids will enjoy them just like you did. Maybe they already do.
A good friend produced a list of great summer activities for dads with their kids, and they have great possibilities for grandparents too. It’s called Summer Fun Bingo. Click here to get the PDF.
If you won’t get to see your grandkids often enough to complete all the activities this summer, pick three or four and go for it. Maybe you can share the Bingo sheet with your grandchild and let him or her choose a favorite to try first. And if you’re able to check off every item on the sheet, that’s great, but this is also valuable as a brainstorming tool that you can adapt to your situation and your grandchild’s age and interests.
Pull your grandchild away from screens and enjoy a time-tested summer favorite activity together. Maybe you’ll also teach a skill or expand a horizon or two.
Happy 4th!
What would you add to the list? What do you and your grandkids enjoy during the summer? Share feedback and tips with other grandparents on our Facebook page here.
