Strategies A Grandmother Can Use to Get Involved in Her Grandchild’s Interests

Being a grandmother is one of life’s sweetest joys, but sometimes it can feel like there’s a bit of a gap between us and our grandkids, especially when their interests seem so different from what we’re used to. However, that gap can be bridged with a little curiosity, effort, and creativity. Here are some practical strategies to help you connect with your grandchild through their interests.

1. Start with a Conversation

Take the time to ask open-ended questions about their hobbies and passions. Questions like, “What do you enjoy most about [their interest]?” or “How did you get interested in this?” show genuine interest. Listen actively, and let them share their excitement. Avoid judgmental comments or suggestions that might discourage them—this is their passion, and your role is to support and encourage it.

2. Learn the Basics

If your grandchild loves something unfamiliar to you—whether it’s a video game, a sport, or a type of music—spend some time learning about it. Watch tutorials, read articles, or ask them to teach you. Showing that you’re willing to learn demonstrates your support and opens up new avenues for shared experiences. For instance, if they’re into skateboarding, you might watch skateboarding videos together or visit a skate park to see what it’s all about.

3. Participate Together

One of the best ways to bond is to jump in and experience their interests firsthand. For example:

• If they love painting, set up a painting session together. Even if you don’t consider yourself artistic, simply trying your hand at it will show your willingness to share their world.
• If they’re into gardening, help them pick out plants or work on a small project together, like creating a mini herb garden.
• For tech-savvy hobbies like gaming, try playing their favorite game with them (even if you’re terrible at it!). Laughing over your attempts can create cherished memories.

4. Show Up to Their Events

Attend their games, recitals, or showcases. Even if you don’t fully understand the activity, your presence means the world to them. Cheer them on, and celebrate their achievements, big or small. Bring along a camera or phone to take photos, and let them know you’re proud of their efforts. Your consistent attendance can boost their confidence and make them feel deeply supported.

5. Find Parallels in Your Interests

Look for ways to connect their hobbies with things you already love. For example:

• If they’re into baking trendy desserts, teach them a cherished family recipe. You might even combine their modern techniques with your traditional methods to create something entirely new.
• If they love storytelling through books or movies, share your favorite tales from when you were their age. You could even start a little family book club where you both read the same book and discuss it.
• If they enjoy building things, such as with LEGO or crafting kits, perhaps you can reminisce about building or crafting projects you did in your younger days.

6. Support Their Growth

Encourage them by providing resources to help them develop their passions. This could mean gifting them a new set of art supplies, paying for a workshop, or simply sharing articles or videos related to their interest. You don’t need to spend a lot of money; even small gestures, like finding a relevant library book or creating a homemade project together, can be incredibly meaningful.

7. Create Traditions Around Their Interests

Build memories by making their interests part of your regular time together. If they’re into science experiments, make it a weekly “science night” where you try fun, kid-friendly experiments. If they love cooking, schedule a monthly “cooking day” where you tackle new recipes together. Establishing these traditions makes their hobbies feel special and creates a predictable routine they can look forward to.

8. Be Patient and Flexible

Children’s interests can change quickly. Today it’s dinosaurs, and tomorrow it’s space exploration. Be ready to adapt, and don’t take it personally if they move on to something new. Instead, view their shifting interests as an opportunity to learn about even more exciting topics and to stay continually engaged in their world.

9. Use Their Interests to Teach Life Skills

Every hobby has life lessons hidden within it. If your grandchild loves sports, you can talk about teamwork, perseverance, and handling wins and losses gracefully. If they’re into music, you can discuss creativity, discipline, and the importance of practice. Tie these lessons into the values you hold dear, and use their interests as a springboard for meaningful conversations.

10. Celebrate Their Passion

Let your grandchild know how proud you are of their enthusiasm and dedication. Compliment their efforts, even if their interests aren’t something you fully understand. Say things like, “I love how passionate you are about this” or “It’s amazing to see how much effort you put into this.” Such affirmations can boost their self-esteem and motivate them to keep pursuing their interests.

11. Document Your Bonding Moments

Take pictures, keep a journal, or create a scrapbook of the times you’ve spent exploring their interests together. This will not only strengthen your relationship but also provide cherished memories for years to come. When they grow older, they’ll have tangible reminders of the time you invested in their passions.

12. Encourage Them to Share with You

Sometimes, simply asking them to show you their latest project or explain their favorite part of their hobby can make them feel valued. Let them be the expert while you listen and learn. When they see you genuinely appreciating their efforts, it validates their passion and strengthens your bond.

13. Stay Involved Over Time

Interest in their hobbies shouldn’t feel like a one-time effort. Check in regularly about their progress and ask how they’re feeling about it. This consistency shows you’re truly invested in their happiness and helps maintain a strong connection as they grow.

14. Ask for Their Input

If you’re planning activities, let them weigh in on the choices. For instance, if they’re passionate about animals, ask if they’d like to visit a zoo or a nature reserve. Including them in the decision-making process makes them feel valued and ensures that your time together aligns with their interests.

15. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Many modern hobbies have a strong digital component. Don’t shy away from using technology to connect. If they’re into creating videos, you can help by being their videographer or brainstorming content ideas. If they love coding, you can explore beginner-friendly tutorials together. Embracing technology shows that you’re willing to step into their world, even if it feels unfamiliar.

16. Be Their Biggest Cheerleader

Always be their source of encouragement. Whether they’re struggling to master a difficult skill or celebrating a small victory, let them know you’re proud of them. Say things like, “I know you can do it” or “Your dedication inspires me.” Your unwavering support will help them feel confident in pursuing their dreams.

By making an effort to engage with your grandchild’s interests, you’re not only nurturing their passions but also building a stronger bond that will last a lifetime. Remember, it’s not about how well you understand their hobbies—it’s about showing that you care. That’s what being a grandmother is all about!