In this time in history grandparents are providing more care then ever for grandchildren. Whether it is daily care or setting aside a few days in the summer for time together, we will create life long memories with our grandchildren. I have a friend who has her grandchildren over for a few days during the summer. She calls it Grammy Camp.  I love the photos and stories she shares! Here are some ways that we can make the most of our time with grands:

Consider local activities and options for activities

My friend’s primary goal is for them to have time together. What is your goal? Make a list of local places to go, games, work projects or chores, arts and crafts, shopping and ask the grands what they want to do. Pre-prepped craft boxes can be bought on Amazon, the dollar store, or at Walmart.  They save prep time and all supplies are provided. However, never underestimate the power of play dough, like these play dough monsters or a sensory box of rice, such as this one for your littles.

Shopping is part of the Grammy Camp tradition. She gives them money for shopping in individual decorated envelopes.  She described that it is fun to see them shop, select, and pay for the items. What a wonderful time to practice these life skills!

Make a simple but flexible schedule

A daily routine helps young children as it provides stability and predictability. Whether or not children are in your home for a day or a few days, set a routine. For example: wake-up, have breakfast, get ready for the day, go to a park, have lunch, quiet time, afternoon adventure, supper, games/crafts, story time, then bed.

At my friend’s Grammy Camp she lets the teenagers have time to sleep-in, but when she has the littles, they have more structure. She has them set their own rules and says its fun to see what they say.

Food. The Menu.

Planning food ahead is so helpful. Talk to your grands and parents and see what they like and how much they are able to help in the kitchen.  Just having a standard breakfast for all mornings might work better than lots of choices. At Grammy Camp the kiddos help set the menu with lots of veggies and fruit included. They also help with cooking and clean-up depending on their ages. Again, what an awesome opportunity for reinforcing important daily skills!

Take photos! 

It’s easy to take photos these days. Take them of the grands and be sure that you get into the pictures too.  Have them printed or put into a photo book. There are so many options for photo books: Walgreens, Chatbook, Shutterfly, and more. There are very few pictures of me and my grandparents. I wish I had photos of us. Your grandchildren will want photos of you too!

Make memories together!

The purpose of this post is to encourage you to spend time with the children in your life…grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. Whether you have an afternoon or five days together, make a plan with simplicity and flexibility in mind. Spend time together and have fun as you make some awesome memories!