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Teenagers are strange creatures. Sometimes, you are incredibly proud of the independent people they are becoming, and other times, you demand to know who they are and what they did with your beloved grandchild. Don’t worry, grandma – your grandbaby is still there but needs different guidance and direction these days!
One easy way to bond with and help your teenage grandchild is by assisting them in finding their passion! Even if they already have a beloved hobby or something that lights them up, you can use these tips to help them better themselves even more:
1. You be the curious cat
Remember when your grands (or heck, even your kids!) would constantly ask questions like, “Why is the sky blue?” every two minutes? Channel that energy by asking them open-ended questions about their interests! Questions like, “What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned lately?” or “What’s something you’ve always wanted to try?” are great places to begin.
2. Introduce them to new adventures
Whether it’s a pottery class, a local theater show, or even an unusual cuisine – introducing them to diverse experiences can ignite hidden passions they didn’t know they had. Bonus? It’s a sneaky way to bond!
3. Reflect on their natural inclinations
Was there something your grandchild loved doing when they were little? Maybe painting, singing, or dancing? Sometimes, childhood hobbies evolve into lifelong passions. Rekindle that spark by re-introducing them to it in a way that better suits their age.
4. Listen more, advise less
I know, I know – it’s tempting to guide your grands toward “sensible” choices. But sometimes, just lending an ear and listening to their dreams and fears can illuminate their true path.
5. Encourage exploration
Let your grandkids know it’s okay to dabble. In fact, you should encourage it so they can really figure out what it is they love! They can do anything, from trying their hand at photography today to baking tomorrow. Remember, it sometimes takes a few tries before they find that one thing that truly resonates. (If you ask me, this is a good thing!)
6. Celebrate their failures
This sounds harsh, I know, but hear me out, as each failure can be a stepping stone to finding what they’re genuinely passionate about. Share stories of your own mishaps and how they led you to something better. When you do this, you make yourself even more relatable and give them the confidence to persevere.
7. Connect them with mentors
Do you have a friend who’s a fantastic violinist or a gardening pro? Introduce them to your grandchild! Mentors can offer guidance, share their journey, and provide a realistic peek into the world of their passion.
8. Remind them there is no limit
Oh, the pressure! Society often makes it seem like children need to have their lives all figured out by 18. (Is it just me, or is it even worse for this generation than it ever was for ours?) Assure them that it’s okay to be uncertain because sometimes passions evolve and change as they grow, and that’s perfectly okay.
Conclusion
Finding one’s passion isn’t a race but rather a journey. And with your support, Grandma, they’ll find their way, one exciting discovery at a time! Enjoy this special time with your grandchild, as you are helping them grow into the person they are meant to be.
