Archive for Fun Activities
Becoming a Lifelong Reader
Posted by: | CommentsBecoming a Lifelong Reader
Sadly today, so few children read for the pleasure of it. With busy parents, daycare and after-school programs, homework and favorite TV shows, kids often don’t know about the pleasures of reading or 
simply don’t care. Make it your mission to turn your grandkids on to the world of reading. Here are some ideas to get started:
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Start a small library at your home.
If you feel as though you are outdated in your choices, there are plenty of people around that are connected and can guide you in the right direction. Try your local library or bookstore to start. -
When it comes time to read
, remember that your grandchild doesn’t read the same way that you do, nor are they on the same reading level. You may want to read the books yourself before you read it to your grandchild, so that you can liven it up with funny voices and faces. Have patience and repeat a phrase as many times as your grandchild asks. Let them be involved in the reading. Take a break so that they can ask questions or allow them to try to figure out the story through the pictures for a couple of pages. -
Don’t let your grandchild get distracted.
Turn off the television so you both can concentrate on the story. Make reading a daily 15 – 30 minute routine. Have enough reading material around that you’ll never run out. Show them that there is also more to read than just books. Introduce them to magazines, comic books, cookbooks and other fun alternatives.
Reading can further your bond, enhance a child’s imagination, help them become more creative, and offers something else to do other than watching the TV or computer for hours on end. By instilling your love of reading into your grandchild, you will surely make them a lifelong reader, and they’ll thank you for it.
Memories from 1978
Posted by: | CommentsMemories from 1978
Here is the front cover of the local newspaper that my “Farm Grandma and Grandpa” were on, showing off their bountiful pumpkin harvest that year. (I decorated the face on the pumpkin in between them and was so excited that they included it in the photo!)
Click the photo to see the full version
Storytime With Your Grandchildren
Posted by: | CommentsStorytime With Your Grandchildren
A great idea to try is to record a story for your grandchild. Although you are not a professional storyteller and might not be confident in your speaking abilities, your grandchild could care less – they will just be happy to hear you!
You can read a favorite story, sing a song, walk them through an activity you are in the process of doing, or make a combination of all or some of these. You might even want to try something modern like a nursery rhyme rap. Your grandchild will be filled with glee and laughter hearing you rapping, won’t they? Be creative!
You can also do a statement segment featuring lines like “I like you because…..” or “I love you so much when you…..” Nothing could be sweeter than hearing a grandma or grandpa spouting off a list of reasons why they love you, miss you, can’t wait to see you, etc.
Go to Grandparenting.com and record a message right now – it’s free!
Grandparenting With Technology
Posted by: | CommentsGrandparenting With Technology
If you don’t already, you may think about investing in a computer. With internet access, you can easily correspond with your grandchildren on a regular basis through emails and instant messages. This is such an easy way to connect often!
Sending a daily “good morning” email message can help brighten up any grandchild’s day. You can also prepare slide shows of photos or drawings on a number of programs. You can also get a web cam that is easily plugged into your computer, and you can do video “phone” calls over the internet with a free service such as Skype. Imagine the fun you could have (and for your grandchildren too!) by seeing each other over the computer! Plus, your grandchildren will enjoy interacting with you as if you were right there in room with them.
And don’t be afraid of technology! If you’re unsure about a computer or the internet, check with your local library or senior center. Most will offer free computer classes to local seniors to help you on your way.
Grandparents Who Live Far Away (Part 2)
Posted by: | CommentsGrandparents Who Live Far Away (Part 2)
Here is another fun activity that you can send with hugs and kisses to your grandchildren who live far away. If they can’t see you in person, this is still a great way to stay in their thoughts.
Create a video! You don’t need a fancy camera; the “Flip” video camera fits right into your pocket and is very easy to use. Record yourself doing some of their favorite activities or places you like to visit together. Older grandkids might enjoy a “tour” of your home, or you could even take them “around town” to the park or local ice cream. Imagine the excitement of not only getting mail from grandma or grandpa, but also in seeing you on the screen, talking right to them!
Just because you live far away doesn’t mean your grandchildren can’t be an integral part of your life!
Grandparents Who Live Far Away (Part 1)
Posted by: | CommentsGrandparents Who Live Far Away (Part 1)
There are some easy ways to put a little zest into your long distance relationship with your grandkids. Here is a fun activity that you can send with hugs and kisses. If they can’t see you in person, this is still a great way to stay in their thoughts.
The first activity is a photo display. Cut out shapes of things that are interesting to your grandchild, such as a dog, a boat. or house. Find favorite snap shots of you and him/her doing these kind of fun activities (together, if possible). Paste them onto a paper background and take it somewhere to get laminated. Add a personal note from you – maybe they will want to put in on their night stand or in their room, so they can still hug you good night. Let them know that you always think of them just before bed too!
