During the cold winter months, kids can quickly get bored. As a grandmother who enjoys spending time with grandkids, I know it’s hard to compete with tablets, video games, and TV programs. But my grandkids always enjoy having me do something with them. If I am engaged in the activity, they stay engaged too. Here are some things we like to do together. I hope you will add some ideas to the list!

• Playing games: Whether it’s Uno, Sorry, Candyland, or Old Maid, they love sitting on the floor and playing games. Sometimes I need to referee, but we always end up laughing.
• Art projects: Markers, colored pencils, crayons or paint can keep me and my grandkids at the table for hours. Sometimes we color pictures in coloring books, while other times we use plain paper to create our own designs.
• Playdough: My granddaughter and I spend hours creating cakes, cookies, and cupcakes from playdough. Then we pretend we own a bakery and customers come to visit us or call on the phone to place their special orders. We even make wedding cakes!
• Reading books: Even when children are reading on their own, they still enjoy being read to. Let your grandchildren choose books they want you to read. Children especially enjoy books with humor, so use this as a fun, entertaining time with some teachable moments along the way.

The above ideas are nothing new, and that’s not the point.  The secret ingredient is you.

Here’s to happy indoor days with Grandma!

Crystal