Grandparents do the bulk of encouraging their grandchildren even from afar. They will also make it a point to get involved in the lives of their grandchildren in whichever way that life permits. There are many smart ways to help grandparents create a strong bond with their grandchild. Here are some ways that you can take into consideration.
Praying for Them
Prayers are the first and best thing that you can do for your grandchildren. It does not depend on proximity as you can pray from anywhere and at any time. Pray for them daily, hoping that they remain healthy and safe at all times. You can also pray for their relationships with family, friends, and even God so they will be surrounded by people whom they love.
Spending Time with Them
There are many long-distance parents but that should not stop you from spending time with them. If it is really difficult to physically spend time with your grandchildren, you can always meet up virtually. There are many digital platforms that allow you to communicate with your loved ones through video. You can remain present in your grandchildren’s lives even when you are far apart. Once in a while, drive the extra miles or even fly over to your grandchildren if your situation permits.
Cooking for Them
Everybody loves a good home-cooked meal. Show your affection to your grandchildren by cooking their favorite meals. They will appreciate the time and effort that go into keeping them full with the dishes that they have always loved. At the same time, you can bond at the dinner table by asking about their hobbies and interests and sharing some interesting stories that will lighten the mood.
Writing to Them
It is perfectly fine to go traditional even in today’s digital age. Write letters or postcards to your grandchildren so they have a memento that they can keep and cherish. Phone or video calls only last several minutes but letters and postcards can be kept forever. You can also send in a gift along with your letters or postcards to let your grandchildren know that they are always in your thoughts.
Cheering Them on
Celebrate your grandchildren’s achievements and milestones. Make a great deal of their accomplishments. Let them know how proud you are of them. If you are living nearby, attend their concerts, piano recitals, theater performances, soccer tournaments, and others. They will appreciate your presence and know that you are always there to show your support. It will definitely boost their morale and lighten their spirits before an important event.
Telling a Story
Everyone loves a good story or two. Tell your grandchildren a story that they have never heard before. Let them know about your childhood or any other interesting facts that you have experienced when you were younger. You can also whip out the good old photo albums and go through each photo together, narrating the story behind them as you go along. You can even make scrapbooks out of the old photos and get your grandchildren involved in the process.
