How can I Impactfully Grandparent if I’m not creative?
If coming up with a day’s worth of activities seems outside your skill set (like I’m intimidated by engineering, accounting and, well, anything math-related), I’ve made it a little easier by sharing what I do. You don’t have to be creative; you just need to be committed to making a difference in the lives of your grandchildren. Hopefully the suggestions and ideas on this site will help you feel ready to step out and set a date with your grandchildren. Take advantage of my Action Plans and just get started.
Can’t I make an impact without all the Bible stuff?
Sure, you don’t have to incorporate a faith element. You could take an Action Plan and skip over the Bible story segment and go directly to all the fun activities. But if you care about having an eternal impact on the kiddos, then I encourage you to give it a try – after all, Jesus is “the way, the truth and the life” (John 14:6). I invite you to read through them as-is and see if you are convicted to include them in your day.
What if I don’t know the Bible very well?
Just learn along with the kids. It’s all packaged up for you in the lesson plans. Key concepts are spelled out so you can discuss takeaways with ease. If the kids have questions you don’t have the answers for, look them up and share answers next time.
How do I stay relevant?
It’s simple. I didn’t say it was always easy. Show your grands that you really care about them. It’s not about wearing trendy clothes or how much you know about current culture. (Although it doesn’t hurt to have some style or know the names of some popular figures in their areas of interest.)
A few tips: Make eye contact when kids speak. Show interest in what they are doing. Ask questions. No lecturing, judging or criticism. Be authentically you. Treat them with respect; expect the same. Be honest about mistakes. Be flexible.
Share your passions. I love horses and now some of my grandchildren go riding with me. It’s the best!
Can I make an impact if I don’t have grandchildren of my own?
YES. Don’t undervalue the impact you can have on a niece, nephew or neighbor’s child, especially if they do not have actively involved grandparents. Building intergenerational relationships with a foundation of Christ-like love will make a profound difference in the world.
Wow, being an Impactful Grandparent sounds like a lot of work! Can’t I just babysit my grandchildren?
Yes! You can just hang out or babysit your grandchildren. But I’m talking about also designating specific times with a planned agenda that you initiate to foster intentional connection.
What if the kids aren’t really into what we are doing?
It happens! And it’s OK. Is the craft too difficult? Maybe the game isn’t holding their attention.
If so, just move on. Don’t be afraid to deviate from The Plan.
If the kiddos are going bonkers and need to expend some energy, just head to a park for playtime. The key is to spend time together.
How do I handle behavior issues?
The truth is sometimes things go completely sideways. In a one-on-one situation, handle it on a case-by-case basis. It’s hard to make a broad generalization here. Regardless of the offense, it’s important to establish boundaries to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
In a group setting, bickering and squabbling can threaten to ruin the best-laid plans. I find it helpful to use a huddle approach to problem-solving. For one thing, they know it’s part of what we do (that’s how we start each day). It’s a great tool to rally the troops. The huddle concept creates a “we’re all on the same team” feeling. Problem resolution is not fun, but it can end up being a valuable life-long tool. You can help them learn to express feelings, grow in empathy, brainstorm solutions and resolve issues. I facilitate discussion and ask thought-provoking questions to gently guide them. Then, when possible, I let them decide on the best solution.
Why do you charge for Action Plans?
I wrestle with this question more than any other. I want us to have real community where we feel supported, encouraged and free to share ideas, struggles and all things grandparenting. The time I invest in writing materials, creating content, and testing out every single activity I recommend takes time. And money. I promise you, the goal isn’t to get rich. The goal is to enrich lives.