It’s wonderful to spend time with family, especially grandkids. Spending time with grandchildren has been shown in studies to help grandparents be healthier, happier, and more alert. Sadly, keeping children active and attentive may be difficult, and all too frequently, you will hear that they are bored. This is especially difficult during the winter, when many outside activities are unavailable. Don’t worry if you’re seeking ways to spend quality time together throughout the next winter months! Keep the following things in mind for grandkids to keep them active and involved throughout their visits:
- Watch a movie together! Make some popcorn and curl up beneath the covers to watch your favorite movie. Your time together is typically focused on what they want to do or watch. When your movie is over, watch one of their favorite movies to make them feel closer to you. They will remember that movie because of its connection to you for years to come.
- Play board and card games! Have a deck of cards on hand (like Uno, which is fantastic for youngsters!), or encourage the grandchildren to bring their favorite games when they come. Instead, teach them some simple card games for a few hours of entertainment.
- Read a book! Take out a book your grandkids like, or pull out a book you enjoy. Reading even one or two chapters will keep your grandchildren occupied for a while.
- Build a pillow fort! Kids enjoy making blankets and pillow forts. Let them get creative and busy playing in your room with the blankets off your bed.
- Cook a meal together! Cook one of their favorite dish with their help. Let them assist with activities like menu planning, setting the table, and eating. Kids will learn how to balance a healthy plate, interpret a recipe, measure and count, and arrange the table, among other things. You may also teach them proper table-setting etiquette, something they may not be aware of.
- Arts and Crafts! Coloring may be relaxing for people of all ages. Paint some images with your grandchildren and place them in your room or common places. Basic crafts may often be enjoyable. All kinds of household items may be used to construct some unique homemade presents!
- Decorate for the holidays! It’s so much joy to decorate your house for the holidays with your family. You may use existing decorations, purchase new decorations, or construct your own decorations with a few art supplies and your imagination. To put on the tree, make paper angels and paper snowflakes. When you set your mind to it, the possibilities are limitless. Play festive music, sing carols, and circle the living room dancing.
- Show them around! Show them around the retirement community. We have a handful of Celebrations Activity and Events that are child-friendly.
For elders wishing to settle in Florida, our community is a clear choice. Schedule a tour today to learn more about our community.
