Grandparents Coming for Summertime Visit
How to Make Sure Kids and Grandparents Have Fun during their Stay
May 13, 2009
Spending time with grandparents who come to visit can be rewarding for kids, and grandparents may have a blast while getting to know grandsons and granddaughters. As a parent acting as a liaison between these generations, you can take some steps to insure a successful visit.
Heading Out: Grandparent Bonding Time
In all honesty, your parents really came to see your little ones, not you. Nurturing the special relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren is important, so why not encourage time together, without mom and dad? You might be surprised how well the suggestion of having a "Grandparents and Kids Day" goes over.
If your child is typically in daycare or preschool, consider having him skip school in lieu of family time. Outings with grandparents are certainly educational, and provide invaluable memories.
As Soon as Travel Arrangements are Made, it is Time to Start Planning
What is going on in your neck of the woods that separates your hometown or state as special? View the visit as a chance for your kids and your parents to celebrate where you live, either by going to a local museum or historical landmark or attending a seasonal festival. This is the time to check out attractions you may not have considered before.
- Check local papers, regional publications or websites for monthly events or specials
- Call local museums to find specials and the best days and times to visit
- Ask grandparents to make sure to bring AARP and/or AAA membership cards for extra discounts
Plan for Rainy Day/Indoor Activities as Well
Just in case rain or other weather conditions make venturing out difficult, suggest any of the following activities instead:
- Painting
- Reading aloud
- Cooking
- Playing board games
- Making arts and crafts
- Impromptu puppet theater
Physical Condition of Kids Versus Grandparents
For your children, think about their schedules and what they can physically endure. Are nap times still an issue? Then perhaps you'll want to plan for morning or afternoon-only activities. Make sure to pack age-related equipment (such as strollers), appropriate snacks, and supplies for long outings.
By the same token, grandparents may have physical limitations due to health conditions or recent surgeries. A bike ride around town may still be a terrific idea, as long as participants are realistic about the length of the route.
Think about the Kind of Personalities Involved
Are the grandparents extremely outgoing? Do they like to be outdoors? Perhaps they enjoy museums or aquariums over parks and beaches. Activities need to appeal to both kids and grandparents, otherwise fun might not be as easy.
Remember, matching activities and personalities can avoid headaches, frustrations, and upset family members.
Make Time for Outings as a Whole Family
Maximize grandparents' visit by taking time to do something outside of the home as a whole family involving parents, kids, and grandparents. A visit to a favorite natural setting, a water park, or even just a cookout in the backyard can serve as a platform for celebrating the special relationships between generations of family. The memories you will create will last lifetimes!
