"This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Dale Atkins, author of "The Turquoise Butterfly." It has been edited for length and clarity. I learned everything I know about being a grandparent from watching my own mother with my sons. She loved spending time with my kids, doing anything and everything they wanted to do. We were lucky that she was active and engaged until she died at 98."
"The best way to build rapport with your grandchildren is by simply showing up and showing interest. My mother did this, traveling to swim meets and holiday parties, even when she would have rather been in her garden. Even if you're not interested in the same things as your grandkid, it's OK to pretend - they'll appreciate it. If you're sharing an experience, like taking your grandkid to a museum, don't try to teach."
Grandparenting can be learned by observing an actively engaged elder who prioritized presence and followed grandchildren's interests. Showing up for events and sharing activities without trying to teach builds rapport. Grandparents should focus on supporting both children and grandchildren, sometimes setting aside personal desires to be helpful. Acknowledging generational differences and accepting new interests fosters positive connections. Presence, flexibility, and interest-driven engagement encourage conversation and lasting bonds across generations, even when grandchildren's preferences differ from a grandparent's own hobbies or expectations.
Read at Business Insider
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