Some of the reasons grandparents are great:

• They are funny. They use words kids don’t hear in other places, like whipper-snapper, davenport, picture show, pocket book, thing-a- ma-gig, catawampus, or cattycornered.

• They tell family stories and exaggerate them to be good for a laugh.

• They show old pictures and home movies that make you laugh.

• They like to talk to you. Everything you say is interesting. They haven’t heard your words and curious questions a thousand times like parents have.

• They like to be asked questions. There are never too many questions for grandparents. After all, they usually don’t see you everyday.

• They get excited for your accomplishments, sad about your disappointments, and always encourage you.

If you are a parent and are lucky enough to have grandparents in your child’s life – celebrate them. Children need as many people in their circle of love as possible. The more there are the better it is.

However, not all family situations are ideal.  Some grandparents are not able to be in their grandchildren’s lives. If that is true in your case:

Be on the lookout for friends and other family members who are the right age. Ask yourself: “If those folks had a chance to get to know my children, would they love them the way I want grandparents to love them?” If your answer is “Yes, I think they would,” invite those folks into your family:

• Seek them out at worship centers, community centers, and neighborhood gatherings to get to know them and have them get to know you.

• Have them over to participate in family dinners and special occasions.

• Invite them to go on walks, go to the playground, or come along for other family activities.

• Visit them at their home.