Carol has always enjoyed gardening. As her young grandkids got a bit older, they started joining her there. She takes them out to help plant seeds or pick tomatoes, and she answers hundreds of questions from them about what she’s doing, why she’s doing it that way, and why she does certain things with tomatoes and other things with cucumbers. Now, they’re eager to help whenever they’re visiting.
What’s your hobby? And how can you share it with your grandkids?
Maybe you enjoy woodworking or photography, stamp collecting or knitting, painting or cooking, scrapbooking or playing guitar. The list, of course, is almost endless.
But as Carol’s example shows, the point is to invite your grandkids into it with you. Maybe there won’t even need to be much inviting; they’ll notice how you’re spending your time and their natural curiosity (and their desire to be with you) will take over.
For you, maybe this is a reminder about what you already do, and you have many memories of these shared activities with your grandkids. Or maybe this will open a new avenue in your grandparenting. In either case, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Safety is a top priority.
Many of us aren’t used to seeing the world from a child’s perspective. We have our routines and probably don’t think much about the potential dangers and threats that can come with things we do all the time. We’re in the habit of taking necessary precautions, but curious children like to explore new things and may not realize how sharp, heavy, hot, or toxic some things can be. We have to be extra mindful of all those things that come with our hobbies and pastimes.
Kids will slow you down.
Maybe part of why you enjoy your hobby is getting things done. If you know you can weed your entire garden in an afternoon, but then two grandkids ask if they can help, then it’s time to adjust your expectations and try to finish two rows. Or maybe a car repair project requires your focused concentration, but with grandkids nearby you pivot to tackling something more kid friendly. If you’re sewing a bridesmaid dress for a friend’s daughter, that can be a fun way to spend time with a grandchild, but getting that “help” will mean going slow and being extra careful to make the seams straight. On a fishing outing, you might spend so much time helping with your grandchild’s pole that you don’t even cast out your own.
Being productive is great, but don’t be frustrated when it takes much longer with grandkids. Allow them to change your agenda and make it more of a fun, teaching time.
This is bonding time.
That’s really the main thought to remember. If you step back and consider what’s happening in addition to the activity or project in front of you, having your grandkids around is an opportunity. You get to invest in them, whether you’re teaching them a skill or just making memories together.
Grandparents, keep pursuing those hobbies. Do things that help keep you young, bring joy to your life, and make you “you.” And find opportunities to invite your grandkids into the experience.
How have you shared a hobby or pastime with your grandkids, and what benefits have you seen? Leave a comment and share some wisdom on our Facebook page here.
