Creating a Family Tradition with Your Grandkids:Some Unique Ideas

You've raised your kids and worked, saved money and met your goals and some of your dreams. So now life it a little less hectic (hopefully) and you can enjoy it and your grandkids more. How can you make the time you spend with them even more special so that it will influence them past their childhood? Develop a family tradition that's just between you and your grandchildren. There are a lot of activities you can do together but it will mean more if it's something unique and original. Here are some ideas of traditions you can begin with your grandkid that will last as they grow and teach them from your valuable wisdom.

1. Keep a journal of their visits. This is a good idea if you live a distance away. When they are little, you can ask them what they want you to write down about the time they've spent with you and then let them draw a picture. When they get older, you can both write in the journal what was special about the visit. This will teach them to appreciate their family.

2. Visit jobsites that help the community, such as the firestation, ambulance or local veternarian. You can bake some cookies to take as a way of saying "thank you for all you do". This will teach them about different career choices and also to appreciate the service others provide for them.

3. Grow a garden together, even if it's just one plant or flower in a pot. Parents are often too busy to do something like this and kids love to watch things grow. It would be even better if it's something they can use, such as tomatoes or herbs. They will learn to care for and appreciate nature and living things.

4. Volunteer together. Even little children can go to nursing homes and visit the elderly or help bag up goods for the homeless or pick up trash in public areas. This will teach them to care about others and realize that their actions can impact other people.

5. Start a hobby together. Or let them help you with one of your hobbies. Rather it's doing crafts, playing golf, or going hiking, they will enjoy it more because they can spend time with you. It will teach them something about you and they might discover an interest in something they didn't expect. At the very least, it will teach them to appreciate having fun.

Children value traditions because it gives them a connection with their family. Creating a tradition that is unique and special to you and your grandchild will be a bonding experience that will last a lifetime.