 |
Grandparenting in the New Millennium
Perhaps the most valuable lesson a grandparent can share is
how to lead a healthy lifestyle," says Denise Hayward, M.D.,
an internal medicine physician at Riverview Medical Center.
"Teach your grandchildren about nutrition while cooking a family
recipe. Eat meals together. Even engaging in fitness activities will
teach great behaviors and keep you young at heart, too."
Even before a child is born, grandparents can begin building
a special relationship. For instance, you might accompany your
daughter or daughter-in-law to an ultrasound to view the fetus.
Technology can be a great way to nurture emotional relationships
— whether you live in the same town or in different countries.
Here are some ideas:
- E-mail or fax letters, jokes, or words of encouragement to your grandchildren.
- Try videoconferencing. This can allow you to talk to and see each other in real time.
- Set up a Web site for your grandchildren to visit. You can post stories, photographs, and favorite recipes.
- Create a video or audiotape of yourself telling a story or singing a song.
Don’t worry if you prefer less high-tech communication.
Children still love going to the zoo and out for ice cream. They
also enjoy getting phone calls and letters in the mail.
Keeping Healthy
Will you be babysitting young grandchildren soon? To help keep them safe, think like a
child. Little ones can reach dangerous items — such as medications — on a table, in
a purse, or in a drawer. "Children easily mistake medicine for candy," notes Riverview
Medical Center pediatrician Michael S. Markoff, M.D. "Thousands of children are treated
in emergency departments for accidentally swallowing medications. Make sure all medications
are out of reach and securely contained to keep your little ones safe."
|
