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Do you have any habits? I don’t mean bad habits (which many of us think of when we hear that word) but rather positive ones, like getting adequate exercise, drinking 64 ounces of water daily, and/or spending time outside. Positive habits can be good for your health and your grandparenting!
If you, like me, are always looking for ways to improve your relationship with your grandkids, consider picking up one (or all) of these seven habits that will make you an even more unforgettable grandma:
1. Listen to what your grandkids say
I know I don’t need to tell you, my fellow Devoted Grandma, to listen to your grandkids, but it is something that I cannot stress enough! Do you know how you feel when someone isn’t listening to what you’re saying? Your grandkids feel the same way and can tell whether or not you are paying attention. Always give them the same time and attention you would give a fellow adult (and then some) – it will cement your relationship even more and boost their confidence.
2. Master the art of storytelling
Whether you’re telling your grandkids about the shenanigans you would get into as a kid or telling a fairy tale from memory, mastering the art of storytelling will make these tales even more memorable and entertaining to your adoring audience! (If you have yet to tell many stories, you can start with small anecdotes and work your way up to longer and more in-depth stories.)
3. Become a master chef (or baking champion)
Grandmas and delicious food go hand-in-hand, so if you have not mastered a dish or two or perfected your cookies and cakes, I highly recommend you begin practicing! As a kid, having Sunday dinner at my grandma’s was the highlight of the week (I can still smell her famous roast beef, potatoes, and carrots…), and I pray that my grandkids have those same fond memories of their grandma’s home.
4. Encourage curiosity
Kids say the darndest things, but they also ask some of the best questions. Let them ask away and answer it to the best of your ability! You may get stumped on some things they ask (half the time, I am incredibly impressed with some of the things they come up with!), which is when you can praise them for their insight while you Google the answer.
5. Turn every visit into an adventure
You, Grandma, have the unique superpower to turn even the most mundane things into an incredible adventure! A trip to the grocery store can become a treasure hunt, a stroll in the park a wildlife expedition, a day at home a culinary escapade… You get the idea! This habit makes your visits exciting and encourages their imagination and creativity. And the best part? You’ll have as much fun as they will!
6. Be a beacon of unconditional love and acceptance
Children thrive in an environment where they feel loved and accepted for who they are, and Grandmas are usually experts at this! Be the safe haven where they can express themselves without fear of judgment or criticism. In the face of mistakes or failures, let your grandkids know that it’s okay to stumble and that it doesn’t make them any less lovable.
7. Be their biggest cheerleader
Not only can (and should!) you be a beacon of love and acceptance for your grandchildren, but also their biggest cheerleader. From celebrating their first baby steps to beaming with pride at their high school graduation, let them know you’re always there, cheering them on from the sidelines. Show up to their soccer games, ballet recitals, or school plays. Send them encouraging notes, or better yet, tell them in person how proud you are. It’s not a bad gig, Grandma – enjoy every minute!
Conclusion
Becoming an unforgettable Grandma isn’t about grand gestures, expensive gifts, or constant indulgence but about the time, attention, and love you pour into these little moments. By adopting these habits, you ensure that the memories your grandkids make with you are not just happy but also meaningful, building a bond that’s truly special and lasts a lifetime.
