Get to Know Grandma This Grandparent’s Day
By Donna Beadle

Children don’t often realize that Grandma was once their age and probably shared a lot of the same childhood experiences. When your children are off to grandma’s house for Grandparent’s Day, treat them to something more than an afternoon of homemade cookies and milk; help your children spend an afternoon learning about grandma’s childhood.

“Unlike reading a fairytale or children’s book together, having Grandma share her life experiences is a true form storytelling that grandchildren can relate to,” says Bruce Lansky, author of “When Grandma Was a Girl.” This book can hold a real photo of Grandma that peeks through each page. Grandmothers can use the book to record their experiences as a youngster.

According to Lansky, children are often interested in Grandma’s school experiences and childhood hobbies. Many children can’t believe that grandma hated math, too, or that they had hopscotch back then.

Lansky recommends the asking following questions to get strolling down memory lane:

Where did Grandma live, and what did she like about her home?

What was Grandma’s favorite toy? What games did she play with her friends?

Did Grandma take any special trips? Where did she go?

What was Grandma’s favorite holiday? What presents does she remember receiving?

How much did things cost when Grandma was a girl?

Grandchildren and adults alike will enjoy the experience of hearing Grandma reminisce about her life as a child. Her story will provide life lessons and a bunch of giggles that show there’s more to grandma than cookies and milk.