When my two-year-old grandson calls, he first asks for Papa. Then, he requests to see Ruby. Even though I am holding the phone, he doesn’t want to converse with me until after I’ve satisfied his requests. I am in third place…behind the dog. I’m the one who purchases his presents and bakes his favorite treats, but my husband and canine enjoy favored status over me. Go figure.
Similarly, when I was taking my 4-year-old granddaughter to a children’s play area, her 7-year-old big brother whispered, “You should ask Papa to go with you…he’s more fun.” Ouch! That stung. Dealing with grandkids requires a thick hide. I’m glad my grandchildren adore their playful grandfather, I just hadn’t anticipated that he might upstage me. Guess I’m going to have to up my game!
The kiddos routinely change their interests and preferences. Sometimes, it can be a challenge to connect with them. It can feel like throwing darts at a moving board. Our grandkids range from newborn to teenager. The wide age range can make it tough to find an activity in which everyone is a willing participant. We’ve discovered that tasty treats increase the probability of success of a family activity. At least that’s my excuse for indulging in gooey goodies…and me and my sweet tooth are sticking to it (literally).
Sometimes, we divide and conquer. Pickleball for the older kids and the park for the youngsters. Other times we bribe…I mean incentivize…the older kids to help the littles with a craft or baking activity in anticipation of a more enticing activity when the wee ones are asleep (like an escape room). Grandparenting in an ever-changing family landscape is an evolving role. Too bad kids don’t come with a personalized instruction manuals.
For me, the actual activity doesn’t really matter. It’s simply an opportunity to interact and bond with my grandchildren while they’re still willing to be seen with me in public. Carpe diem!
