At last, you’ve inherited the title of nana to those adorable grandies, but just because you’re growing into your rocking chair doesn’t mean your job is done. Far from it – nanahood is just beginning!
Understanding how you can best live up to the high calling of being a grandmother means looking at the things your little ones need the most. They definitely need strong and loyal adults in their lives, and this is where you come in.
FIND DIFFERENT WAYS TO CONNECT
Search for new and novel events and activities to connect – things that your grandkids wouldn’t normally do with their parents. Take them to a different part of town; teach them something their parents don’t know how to do, such as jewellery-making or watercolour painting; invite them to the theatre; meet them for a coffee – play together, wonder together, explore together.
A WONDERFUL PLACE TO VISIT
It’s the parent’s job to dish out the rules and discipline but ‘going to Grandma’s’ should mean something special to your grandkids – a place where they feel valued, listened to and loved. Grandma should be the one who’s ready with a big hug, a loving smile and always has time for her adorable munchkins, someone who knows how to make them feel special whilst also teaching them a thing or two about the world. And, as long as it stays that way, your grandchildren will come to you, even in times of trouble.
THEY NEED TO BE SPOILED
This can be the fun part of being a grandma. After all, every child loves a little treat of lollies or cookies (we have an amazing vegan mint chocolate cookies recipe for you 😉 )when they go to Nana’s house.
TEACH THEM ABOUT THE WORLD
We’re not talking about boring lectures and monologues but, rather, passing on your experience through stories. Tell them how your life choices may have informed your outlook, tell them about your past and the family history. A great way to do this is to sit down with a photo album and tell memorable stories and anecdotes about everyone in the family – after all, you’re the best record of what happened in the past and they’ll slowly learn how this relates to them and the world.
ASK YOUR GRANDCHILDREN TO TEACH YOU SOMETHING
Ask them to educate you on what’s going on in their world – the latest trends in music, what they talk about with their friends and what they’re watching online. Show a genuine interest and, who knows, they’ll probably even teach you a thing or two, like how to use your mobile or laptop more effectively.
Read also: 7 amazing features of your phone you’re probably not using (but should be!)
A READY LISTENER
Grandchildren come in all sizes and shapes and all have different qualities, quirks, aptitudes and attitudes. In spite of those, and because of those, each grandchild should be loved regardless.
As a nana you need to have a ready ear that holds no judgement and give your wisdom, guidance and advice where needed. Your grandchildren are often looking for someone who they can confide in and a space where they can talk about their inner thoughts and emotions without fear of ridicule or judgement.
As children grow up, they need important networks and to be surrounded by impactful adults – this is your opportunity to be there for them.
BE THERE FOR THE MILESTONES
From birthdays to kindy concerts and school graduations, make a point of being there, whenever possible, for those important moments. Your grandchildren will remember many of those big moments in their life and it will be important that they recall your presence at those times too.
BE FORGIVING
Sometimes grandchildren will inevitably fail you, hurt you or do wrong by you, in spite of their better judgement and upbringing. They are still finding their way in the world and deserve forgiveness, just like the rest of us.
These are just some of the things that make time with Nana so precious. You want your grandchildren to always love coming to see you.
