Leading by example is often the best way to help little ones learn especially when it comes to respecting and caring for elders in both our families and society.
For those of us who have been fortunate enough to spend time growing up with our grandparents and elders, it’s clear that the wisdom, experience, wisdom, and love they have to share is both remarkable and unique. From the stories they have time to share, their patience and their good guidance can make a world of difference, especially in today’s busy world where parents are often stretched in multiple directions.
Equally important, youngsters bring energy, enthusiasm, youthful viewpoint, and are very social little humans who can usually boost mood and morale. Depending on the circumstances, their presence can not only help stave off the all-too-common loneliness experienced by many seniors in later life but the social connection with grandchildren is also said to have a multitude of health benefits.
Consider different ways to get children involved with elders such as volunteering at the local retirement residence or long-term care home, befriending a neighbour who may enjoy some help with their shopping or gardening, taking out the garbage or running errands. Other ideas include:
Exercise: No need to think about going to the gym. A walk in the park to learn about nature or a little dance to your
favourite music can be a good way to get everyone going. We’ve even heard of multi-gen yoga classes.
Helping with pets: When someone isn’t well or doesn’t have the energy they used to, kids can be a big help in taking a pet for a walk or helping with feeding and grooming. Not only are these good deeds but they also encourage the love of animals and the responsibility of pet ownership.
Travel tales: Hearing stories and seeing pictures of faraway places that neighbours or grandparents have visited are sure to get a little one’s imagination running wild. On the reverse, a shared tale about a time at camp or school field trip from a youngster will help make elders feel included and engaged.
Cards and crafts: A handmade card or gift would make anyone smile be it for birthdays or seasonal celebrations. There are also tons of DIY crafts and colouring sheets online for a child to try before or during the visit.
Technology: Most kids and teens are well adapted to new technology and could be a great help to grandma if she’s struggling with her new computer, iPad or mobile phone.
Arguably for both kids and older adults, time together has a multitude of benefits and rewards with intergenerational learning and social well-being topping the list. So, next time there is an opportunity to encourage kids to engage with their elders, don’t pass it up. You never know what amazing things they’ll learn and the inspiration they’ll give to others.
Natasha Way, Ahki Odayin, a two-spirit person of the Ojibwe People of Wikewemikong First Nations, and Bonnechere Mètis Nations of Ontario. They are an editing assistant, Indigenous and disabilities rights advocate.
Learning about family history
How much do your kids know about the family tree? When they spend time with their grandparents or other elders, they get a first-hand account of people they never got to meet, their names, the relationships they had, and fun family moments together that a library just wouldn’t have.
The next time you take your kids on a trip to their grandparents, why not ask if the grandparents would be willing to share what they remember about growing up, if they’d want to pull out a photo album, what their dad was like, and why are they wearing those fancy pants as a child.
