There is certainly nothing normal about these times. When I sat down to write this month’s column, I realized there are so many variables impacting all of us: it’s hard to come up with a “one size fits all” article that fits under the heading “Fall Festivities” that my editor assigned.
Instead, I’ve decided to address some of the issues parents may be dealing with now and how grandparents might be able to lend a hand. In other words, what can grandparents do about . . .
SCHOOL
Most of our grandchildren are about a month in with remote learning. How are things going for them? If parents are juggling working outside of the home while their child is at home, conflicts are inevitable. Is there some way you can help with that? If you are retired or working part-time, this may be a solution to many problems. There is some risk, of course, based on outside jobs and exposure. But it is something to consider. Not only would it relieve overburdened parents, but it would give you precious time with your grandkids. Grandparents have a lot of experience to offer, and can undoubtedly be an asset to the parents and the schools for at-home learning.
Taking it one step further, perhaps you can help other families or the school somehow. Making phone calls, sending emails, and arranging “learning pods” are things a grandparent can help with.
If you aren’t physically close enough to help out, can you pick up the tab for your grandchild’s out-of-home educational care? There are several local organizations offering supervised care for children of working parents. What a gift you could give parents by providing financial assistance for one of those programs.
HALLOWEEN
Halloween is something kids look forward to for months. Coronavirus is the real boogeyman that has brought Halloween to a screeching halt. Or has it? Haunted houses and parties and door-to-door trick-or-treating are nixed. But Halloween can still be fun. According to statistics found online (so it must be true…lol), 74% of millennial moms say Halloween is more important than ever this year. What can grandparents do to help create a memorable Halloween? How about going HUGE on your decorating by making your house the one the neighborhood kids ask to drive by every night. Fog machines, lights, tons of pumpkins, inflatable décor… all fun to look at and so festive!
Another idea: if your grandkids can come over on Halloween, why not incorporate an egg hunt concept with Halloween? You can find small plastic pumpkins on Amazon to fill with candy and hide them around your yard (or house if there is uncooperative weather). Dress up for the kids and have a family-only Halloween party.
Or can you rent a screen and projector (or use a large television) to put in your driveway to play Halloween movies. If you’re comfortable with it, invite a few neighbors, your grandkids, and some of their friends to bring their lawn chairs and watch movies at a safe distance.
FALL FUN
One more idea for Fall…get outdoors! I’ve always been a big advocate for camping, and Autumn is the best time. The weather has finally cooled down, the trees are changing colors, and it’s apple season in many California areas. Rent an RV and take the grandkids somewhere fun for a few days. Give Mom and Dad a break, and make some new memories. S’ mores, stargazing, long walks, maybe riding bikes…all great activities.
This year has proven to be a challenge, but one thing that continues to amaze me is the ability of people to adapt. We will get through this together.
Tricia Vlasak is a mother, grandparent, and wife. She works in law enforcement when she isn’t writing about parenting, hiking with her dogs, or going on Jeep adventures.