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I’ve been diagnosed with cancer. How do I tell my children?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/cassy-dittman-1380541">Cassy Dittman</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/govind-krishnamoorthy-1467986">Govind Krishnamoorthy</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/marg-rogers-867368">Marg Rogers</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-new-england-919">University of New England</a> With around <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/cancer/2022">one in 50 adults</a> diagnosed with cancer each year, many people are faced with the difficult task of sharing the news of their diagnosis with their loved ones. Parents with cancer may be most <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462388914000994">worried about</a> telling their children. It’s best to give children factual and age-appropriate information, so children don’t create their own explanations or <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)33202-1/fulltext">blame themselves</a>. Over time, supportive family relationships and open communication <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00520-016-3214-2">help children adjust</a> to their parent’s diagnosis and treatment. It’s natural to feel you don’t have the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ecc.12018">skills or knowledge</a> to talk with your children about cancer. But preparing for the conversation can improve your confidence. <h2>Preparing for the conversation</h2> Choose a suitable time and location in a place where your children feel comfortable. Turn off distractions such as screens and phones. For teenagers, who can find face-to-face conversations confronting, think about talking while you are going for a walk. Consider if you will tell all children at once or separately. Will you be the only adult present, or will having another adult close to your child be helpful? Another adult might give your children a person they can talk to later, especially to answer questions they might be worried about asking you. Finally, plan what to do after the conversation, like doing an activity with them that they enjoy. Older children and teenagers might want some time alone to digest the news, but you can suggest things you know they like to do to relax. Also consider what you might need to support yourself. <h2>Preparing the words</h2> Parents might be worried about the <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/321/7259/479.full.pdf+html">best words or language</a> to use to make sure the explanations are at a level their child understands. Make a plan for what you will say and take notes to stay on track. The toughest part is likely to be saying to your children that you have cancer. It can help to practise saying those words out aloud. Ask family and friends for their feedback on what you want to say. <a href="https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/childhood-cancers/talking-to-kids-about-cancer">Make use of guides</a> by the Cancer Council, which provide age-appropriate wording for explaining medical terms like “cancer”, “chemotherapy” and “tumour”. <h2>Having the conversation</h2> Being open, honest and factual is important. Consider the balance between being too vague, and providing too much information. The <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462388914000994">amount and type</a> of information you give will be based on their age and previous experiences with illness. Remember, if things don’t go as planned, you can always try again later. Start by telling your children the news in a few short sentences, describing what you know about the diagnosis in language suitable for their age. Generally, this information will include the name of the cancer, the area of the body affected and what will be involved in treatment. Let them know what to expect in the coming weeks and months. Balance hope with reality. For example: <blockquote> The doctors will do everything they can to help me get well. But, it is going to be a long road and the treatments will make me quite sick. </blockquote> Check what your child knows about cancer. Young children may not know much about cancer, while primary school-aged children are starting to understand that it is a <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epdf/10.1177/0165025408093663">serious illness</a>. Young children may worry about becoming unwell themselves, or other loved ones becoming sick. Older children and teenagers may have experiences with cancer through other family members, friends at school or social media. This process allows you to correct any misconceptions and provides opportunities for them to ask questions. Regardless of their level of knowledge, it is important to reassure them that the cancer is not their fault. Ask them if there is anything they want to know or say. Talk to them about what will stay the same as well as what may change. For example: <blockquote> You can still do gymnastics, but sometimes Kate’s mum will have to pick you up if I am having treatment. </blockquote> If you can’t answer their questions, be OK with saying “I’m not sure”, or “I will try to find out”. Finally, tell children you love them and offer them comfort. <h2>How might they respond?</h2> Be prepared for a range of <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00520-016-3214-2">different responses</a>. Some might be distressed and cry, others might be angry, and some might not seem upset at all. This might be due to shock, or a sign they need time to process the news. It also might mean they are trying to be brave because they don’t want to upset you. Children’s reactions will change over time as they come to terms with the news and process the information. They might seem like they are happy and coping well, then be teary and clingy, or angry and irritable. Older children and teenagers may ask if they can tell their friends and family about what is happening. It may be useful to come together as a family to discuss how to inform friends and family. <h2>What’s next?</h2> Consider the conversation the first of many ongoing discussions. Let children know they can talk to you and ask questions. Resources might also help; for example, The Cancer Council’s <a href="https://www.campquality.org.au/kids-guide-to-cancer/">app for children and teenagers</a> and Redkite’s <a href="https://www.redkite.org.au/service/book-club/">library of free books</a> for families affected by cancer. If you or other adults involved in the children’s lives are concerned about how they are coping, speak to your GP or treating specialist about options for psychological support.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/228012/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/cassy-dittman-1380541">Cassy Dittman</a>, Senior Lecturer/Head of Course (Undergraduate Psychology), Research Fellow, Manna Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/govind-krishnamoorthy-1467986">Govind Krishnamoorthy</a>, Senior Lecturer, School of Psychology and Wellbeing, Post Doctoral Fellow, Manna Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/marg-rogers-867368">Marg Rogers</a>, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education; Post Doctoral Fellow, Manna Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-new-england-919">University of New England</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/ive-been-diagnosed-with-cancer-how-do-i-tell-my-children-228012">original article</a>.

Family & Pets

7 things you should pass on to your grandkids

No one wants to think about what will happen when they’re no longer around, but thoughtfully choosing what to leave to your family will ensure your memory endures long after you’re gone. Here are the 10 things you should pass on to your grandchildren to help them remember you as you always were. <ol> <li>Your passport(s) – What better token of your life is there than a chronicle of all the incredible places you’ve visited? Your passports will inspire those you love to pack up their bags and follow in your footsteps.</li> <li>Your wedding album – By passing on your beloved wedding photos, long after you and your partner are gone, your love story will continue to inspire generations after you – and maybe offer some style ideas to vintage-loving brides-to-be in your family!</li> <li>Something belonging to your parents – If you have an old possession that used to belong to a parent, grandparent or even great-grandparent, giving it to your grandchildren will ensure their ancestors will live on through future generations.</li> <li>Something sentimental – Photo albums are all well and good, but passing on something you love, which is truly special to you, will always remind your grandchildren of you. Just imagine their smiles as they look down on a watch or ring gifted to them by their beloved nan or pop.</li> <li>A photo of the first time you met them – Who could forget the first time they meet their newborn grandchild? Share this moment with them and write on the back of the photo just how you felt when you held them for the first time.</li> <li>Your favourite music, books, and movies – There’s nothing like music to bring back memories of people and places. Fill a bag (or load a USB) with your all-time favourite songs, books and movies so your family will always have something to lift their spirits when they’re feeling down.</li> <li>Stories – while possessions are great, stories and memories are what will endure for decades after you’ve gone. Any chance you get, share a memory or a story with your loved ones, whether it’s about your life or theirs, and get a conversation going.</li> </ol> Images: Getty

Retirement Life

The most beloved grandparents in film

Grandparents – they’re wise, loving and occasionally grumpy. They also make some of the best characters in films. So grab the popcorn, gather the grandkids and show them how amazing grandparents are! Queen Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries Played by the graceful Julie Andrew, the ruler of the fictional country Genovia needs to teach her granddaughter and heir Mia (Anne Hathaway) how to be Queen. It’s the growing relationship – from heated arguments to acceptance and understanding – between the two that makes this movie. Aurora Greenway in Terms of Endearment In possibly the best movie made about the mother-daughter relationship, Oscar-winning Shirley MacLaine plays the mother who puts years of hostility behind her to care for terminally ill daughter Emma (Debra Winger). However, it’s her role as a grandparent that brings her ultimate redemption becoming the guardian to her three grandchildren. Warning: tissues are a must in this film. Grandma Annie in The Proposal Although she has no grandchildren, Betty White always plays the most hilarious nanas. Grandma Annie’s 90th birthday party is the big event where the romance between Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds finally comes to fruition. Even 60 years into her career, Betty White’s comical facial expressions will still make you laugh. Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory The bedridden grandfather decides to take his first steps into the outside world for his beloved grandson Charlie. The grandfather and grandson together experience a fantastical adventure of a life time, a trip to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. The Grandfather in The Princess Bride The anonymous grandfather played by Peter Falk entertains his sick grandson (Fred Savage) with a good-old fashioned adventure story. Although reluctant at first, the grandson is soon just as caught up as we are about the tale of the masked man saving the beautiful princess. Carl Fredricksen in Up Although not technically a grandfather, the animated story of a grumpy 78-year old man who forms an unlikely friendship with 8-year-old wilderness explorer Russell is a beautiful story of the generations’ comings together. Because of Russell, Carl learns to live again, something he never thought possible after the death of his wife many years ago. Images: Wolper Pictures

Movies

Why you should encourage your grandchildren to write stories

In an article published in <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/41405103" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Language Arts</a>, educators who were interested in encouraging children to write were asked why it was important for children to be encouraged to write. Their reasons were varied and interesting, and worth considering for anyone who has a young child in their life – let’s take a look at some: 1. To entertain As humans, we tell stories for many reasons, but perhaps the foremost reason is that we want to entertain one another. By encouraging children to write their own stories, they can discover what entertains them, as well as what entertains others – well-told, engaging stories. 2. To stimulate the imagination By creating from nothing a story full of characters and original plots, a child’s imagination grows and develops. 3. To search for identity When children write their own stories, they can use the conflict and characters to take their first steps on their search for identity. The power simple stories can have on a child’s self-development is remarkable. 4. To improve reading and writing skills Children need to read and write, so we may as well find a way to make it more interesting for them. Not only will writing help kids learn how to read, it can also help them understand literary devices (suspense, twist, dramatic irony, etc.), and grammatical structures. Now that we’ve explored some of the reasons creativity in writing in our kids, let’s find some ways to help get them started: 5. Inspiration exploration When you’re spending time with your grandchildren, make a game out of looking for fun story inspirations. Interesting newspaper headlines, a unique-looking house, a colouring-in book. You could even keep a box full of story inspirations to explore together with your grandchildren. 6. Unblank the page Anyone who has ever sat down to write knows there’s nothing more intimidating than a blank page. To help kids out, try giving them the opening line to a story. You can create these yourself, find a list of opening lines on the internet, or even borrow the opening line of a book on your own shelf. 7. Work all of the mind If you find that your grandchildren have difficulty focusing on just words, encourage them to explore other aspects of their own creativity by using visuals. Storyboards, illustrations, or even writing the story as a comic book can help stimulate storytelling. Image credit: Shutterstock

Family & Pets

When babysitting your grandkids is not the retirement plan

Megan Giles is a retirement designer for women. She supports and coaches women approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a lifestyle that is fulfilling, meaningful to them and lights them up each day. You’re retiring, or maybe you’re about to cut down to part-time hours and you can smell freedom in the air. You have the schedule for a pilates studio on your fridge, a list of restaurants to try, and a couple ideas for that abandoned corner of your garden. At last you have time to do all of those things you’ve always wanted to do. And then the phone rings. “Mum, now that you’re not working, it would be great if you could look after [grandchild] on a Friday…” And your heart sinks. You love your grandchild to bits, but a regular baby-sitting gig is not part of your plan. While this is the perfect scenario for many people approaching retirement, it’s important to recognise that it’s not for everyone. What happens if your family has other ideas for your life after work, e.g. caring for grandchildren, or they have assumptions about what you can and can't (or shouldn't!) do in retirement. Do you acquiesce and abandon your dreams or do you recognise the value of your time and dreams and decide to ‘just go for it’? The trouble with choosing to pursue your own path is the huge amount of guilt this can bring up, particularly for women. You feel that you should be there for your children and grandchildren. You know that your support will make their life easier as they have demanding jobs and because the cost of living and day care is expensive. Or perhaps you convince yourself that you do have the time and energy because, well, you’re not working anymore. But the risk that goes with this is that you start to feel resentful because you’re not being true to your dreams. Broaching this with adult children, however, can be a tricky thing to do. It brings up conflicting emotions including love, guilt, joy, fear and obligation and the last thing you want to do is make a loved one feel bad. In recognition of this, the following provides tips for sharing your retirement ideals with your family in a positive way: <ul> <li>Make an uninterrupted time to talk. While it might be an easy time to catch your children, try to avoid the early evening ‘witching hour’ when feeding and bathing can create mayhem</li> <li>Share your goals. Rather than assuming your family know what will be important to you, let them know what you would like to get out of retirement, particularly while you are active and have good health</li> <li>Articulate your concerns or fears. Let them know, for example, that you worry about being able to keep up with your energetic grandchild, or that you risk letting them down in the longer term when you decide to go travelling and can’t do that regular Tuesday ‘gig’</li> <li>Listen to what it is that your adult children are seeking and see if you can come up with alternate options together (it doesn’t always have to be one thing or the other)</li> <li>Let your family know that you love and care for them unconditionally. Not being able to provide regular baby-sitting duties does not mean that you love them any less</li> </ul> As the saying goes, you first have to look after yourself before you can look after others and this applies especially in retirement. However uncomfortable it may seem initially, have the conversation in order to understand and align both your and your family’s expectations, and then give yourself permission to follow your dreams in retirement! Images: Getty

Retirement Life

5 common questions about cruising with grandchildren

Travelling with your grandchildren can be a rewarding experience. By the same token though if you're not properly prepared it can be quite a trying experience. In many ways that's why cruising is such a great option for family holidays. With everything taken care of a lot of the problems that normally come with travelling with children simply don't exist. In case you need a little more convincing, here's the answers to five of the most common questions about cruising with grandchildren. 1. Will our grandkids get bored? Cruise lines are becoming increasingly family friendly and incorporating a range of activities all the kiddies will enjoy. Some cruise lines offer kids clubs which are dedicated spaces with camp-like programming, others have activities like scavenger hunts, cooking classes and sports tournaments. 2. Will our grandchildren be able to eat the meals? On bigger cruise ships most menus have a kids menu that caters to children’s tastes and buffet usually has a range of kid-friendly options that will have your grandchildren happy enough. 3. Can grandkids bring their portable game devices aboard? Most cruise lines are more than accommodating when it comes to things like portable video game players, tablets, e-book readers and computers. There are generally also game systems set up in kids clubs for your children to enjoy. 4. Will my grandchildren be safe in common areas? Generally yes, but it’s also important to be responsible. Consider cruise ships like mini-floating cities carrying thousands of people you do not know at any one time. So it stands to reason that you’re doing yourself a huge favour by taking the general precautions that you’d take elsewhere. 5. Is it worth taking my grandchildren on a cruise? Of course it is! Travel is the only purchase in life that makes you richer, as they say, and instilling a thirst for travel in your grandchildren is a gift that sees their possibilities expand. And cruising really is one of the safest, most convenient ways to show your grandchildren the world. Images: Getty

Cruising

Royals share unseen photo of Queen Elizabeth with her great-grandchildren

The royal family have shared a touching tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth on what would have been her 97th birthday. The late monarch was beaming as she was pictured with some of her grand-children and great-grandchildren, in a sweet snap taken by the Princess of Wales in Balmoral last summer. “Today would have been Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s 97th birthday. This photograph - showing her with some of her grandchildren and great grandchildren - was taken at Balmoral last summer,” they captioned the photo shared on Instagram. Queen Elizabeth was pictured with two of her grandchildren and eight of her 12 great-grandchildren. In the photo, Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn, stood tall and proud behind their grandmother. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis stood in the second row alongside Isla Phillips, 11, and four-year-old Lena Tindall, who was perched on the left arm of the sofa with a cheeky grin on her face. The eldest of the late Monarch's great-grandchildren, Savannah Phillips, 12, sat next to her great-grandmother looking particularly poised in a dotted red dress. Mia Tindall, nine, sat on the other side of the late Queen, while carefully holding her baby brother, Lucas, in her lap. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTCXEqtQ1G/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTCXEqtQ1G/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)</a> </div> </blockquote> However, some of the great-grandchildren were missing including the children of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the son of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank, and the daughter of Princess Beatrice and Edo Mappeli Mozzi. The Instagram post comes seven months after the Queen's death. Image: Instagram

Family & Pets

The benefits of doing arts and crafts with grandkids

Arts and crafts activities have a wide range of relational and health benefits for you and your grandchildren. Whether you make a craft activity, do embroidery or do painting and drawing to allow them to express their creativity, you will create special memories with your grandchildren. Here are some key benefits of doing arts and crafts together. 1. Flexible bonding Arts and crafts is an activity that can be enjoyed one afternoon or can be continued over various visits to your grandchildren. Working together on a project and seeing it through until completion is a fun and genuine way to bond with someone. Grandchildren will also see the effort you taken to prepare something fun for them. Arts and crafts will allow you to invest in your relationship by doing an activity that will create special memories as you make your art and then at the end of your project you will have physical memorabilia of the time you spent together working on your craft. 2. Fun learning Immersing yourself in arts and crafts have a huge range of health benefits for both you and your grandchildren. Arts and crafts can hone fine mother skills due to the repetition of various small movements and concentration. It can also improve coordination as hand movements have to be direct and precise. Arts and crafts can also improve concentration levels and visual processing abilities. Visual processing is a skill that is key in a child’s early years as they learn names and identification of primary colours and objects. 3. Improves self-esteem Once a child has finished creating a craft activity they will have a sense of accomplishment because they created something. While you are doing the arts and crafts with your grandchild, you will have plenty of opportunity to observe their skills and encourage them along the way. 4. Teaches them to express themselves Arts and crafts allow children to express what is on their minds as they tend to be very visual with the emotions and thoughts they are experiencing. Activities such as painting and drawing is particularly great for children who are shy as it will give insight to what is on their mind. Images: Getty

Family & Pets

Fun camping activities for the whole family

Dust off the tent and grab the sleeping bags because it is well and truly camping season! A traditional summer pursuit for many families, camping is not only great fun for all ages but a wonderful family bonding times. If you’re camping with the extended family this season, here are some activities that will engage even the most disinterested kid. Get ready for some wholesome fun that does not involve technology! Scavenger hunt Make it a competition so everyone, even the adults, get involved and active! As you will likely be around nature, create a nature-themed hunt. It can be as simple as collecting items like leaves of certain colours, different shaped rocks, snail shells or even spotting different types of bugs and animals. In this case, get everyone to take a photo of the item. Make sure you warn kids of things to avoid like certain poisonous or prickly plants that might be around. Obstacle course Create the ultimate outdoor obstacle course to challenge the whole family. It can be as easy or hard as you want so set it to accommodate all ages and activity levels in the family. Obstacles like crawling under picnic tables, skipping stones, long jumps on a beach, hanging off a branch are all options. Use what is at your campsite and race each other with the ‘losers’ having to cook dinner or collect firewood. Nature watching Since the whole family will be in the thick of the bush, take the time to get to know nature better! Most national parks and campsites will have brochures of types of animals and birds in the area or grab a guidebook and go bird and animal watching. Or learn about the different types of flora in the area. Just be sure to respect nature and not damage anything. Learn new skills A camping trip is a great time to teach the kids how to read maps and compasses (or brush up if you are rusty). Reading a map and compass is quickly becoming a lost skill but one which is still important. Make it a bit more fun by going orienteering. Create an easy compass course and see how well the family follows directions. Cook up a treat If you are lucky enough to have a big campfire blazing away at night don’t waste the opportunity and cook up some camp favourites. The classic damper is a great option, otherwise toasting marshmallows while sharing stories is the perfect way to unwind at night. Or you can create s’mores, an American favourite of marshmallows and chocolate sandwiched between crackers. Ghost stories Even the most disinterested grandkids will be engrossed with a night time session of ghost stories around the campfire. Engulfed in the blackness of night with not much signs of civility, the scare factor is heightened. If nobody can think of any good ones (we recommend you have some prepared to scare everyone!) or the grandkids are too young, play the game where everyone contributes a sentence which slowly builds an often outrageous and hilarious tale. Image credit: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

How grandchild proof is your home?

We all have adventurous little ones in our life who are full of beans and personalities who love nothing more than to explore everywhere and anywhere. Is your home safe for these explorers? It’s a given: little ones can (and will!!!) climb and crawl anywhere and everywhere! Here we have a few helpful tips to ensure your home is a safe place for young children to explore explore! Did you know that accidental falls are among the most common types of injuries that are sustained in the home when it comes to children? Given this, you’ll want to make every effort to keep stairs and hallways clear and clutter-free to make room for your child to explore without tripping. It might also be a good idea to consider temporary fencing around stairways, steps and hallways. Safety gates at the top or bottom of stairs should be securely fastened to the wall and have a locked handle that can be used with one hand. These will prevent toddlers from climbing stairs unsupervised. As you all probably know, grandchildren love to climb, look at everything and pull on anything in their sight. To make sure spaces are as safe as possible, guard any hazards you can see when you look around the house. For instance, conceal window locks and blind cords from adventurous babies. Furthermore, ensure window, back doors and so on are locked Modern technology has many benefits and it’s a tool you can use to help with safeguarding your home. For example, place baby monitors around the home. Baby monitors can provide you peace of mind and now also connect to a smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer allowing them to be managed through a wireless network for parents on the go. Lastly, many child safety products can be DIY installed and keep children safe from hazards such as sharp corners on drawers and tables, power points and stairs. Do a search on the internet or head to your local hardware store or places like Target or Kmart for budget-friendly options. Image: Getty Images

Home Hints & Tips

How to deal with losing touch with grandkids

Losing contact with your grandchild, or perhaps more accurately getting cut off from them, is perhaps the worst thing that can happen to grandparents but unfortunately, it happens and it’s on the rise. Each situation leading up to an estrangement is different but it commonly occurs after the marital breakdown of parents. The family conflict ripples out and grandparents are unfairly, but often collateral damage. The emotional toll it takes can be immense and heart-breaking but what can be done? Repair relationships Family conflict occurs and is exacerbated by poor communication. The best way to begin amends is to build bridges. Even if you’ve been unfairly hurt, remember this person is still your grandchild’s parent. It can be difficult but you need to respect that. Apologise – Be sincere. No caveats or justifications. You might not have done anything wrong or you might not even know what you did wrong to cause this rift but this is not a time for egos or personal pride. Remember this is the father or mother of your grandchild and they are the parents. They may have made mistakes but they are still the parents. Make peace for the sake of making peace and to mend the relationship, because if you want to see grandchildren, you will need a relationship with both parents. Make it about the child – Parents going through a separation or divorce are often wrapped in their own conflicts. Yet parents will hopefully do what is best for their child. It might be self-evident that grandparents are good for children but this might not be obvious to parents who have been through emotional turmoil, bitterness and separation. Approach in a sensitive, non-accusatory and non-judgemental way and explain the importance and usefulness of grandparents to children. Remind them the positive role you have taken in the past and that grandparents are not only a source of comfort to children in difficult times but can be the rock of stability in these trying times. You can offer practical help like picking up from school as well as reminding that keeping in touch will help children’s sense of family identity and history. Talk it out – Sometimes your children (and in-laws) simply have no idea that their parents are feeling so devastated and grief-stricken. They might not have considered the effects of their behaviour on others or presumed you would take your child’s side. Reassure them that you don’t want to take sides, just that you want what is best for your grandchild. Seek legal help This should be the last option because starting legal action will almost always end any hope of repairing the relationship between parents and grandparents. Even so, there is no guarantee that going through the courts will provide a happy outcome. Within our current legal system, grandparents do not have an automatic right to have a relationship with a grandchild. According to Legal Aid NSW, anyone who has an ongoing relationship with the child, or any other person who can show that they are concerned with the care, welfare or development of a child (including grandparents) may apply to the Court for Parenting Orders. A Parenting Order can be an order that you can spend time with or communicate with the child. It will be up to the Court to decide what will happen, based on what is in the child’s best interests. Image: Getty

Family & Pets

“I hope you didn't travel all the way here to ask that question”: Princess Mary shuts down journalist

Princess Mary refused to stoop to her sister-in-law’s level when a journalist questioned her about Queen Margrethe of Denmark's decision to strip four grandchildren of their royal titles. The Australian-born Princess was on a royal tour of Vietnam when a journalist asked about the Queen’s decision. But Princess Mary was not having any of it and quickly shut down the question and put the journalist in their place. "I have nothing more to add to what I already said,” Princess Mary interjected. “I hope you didn't travel all the way here to ask that question. Do you have any other questions?" This however did not stop the journalist from going on saying: "Princess Marie told me that your relationship is complicated.” "I have nothing further to add,” the Princess replied, ending the conversation. The footage was shared to Twitter showing a composed Princess Mary shutting down the journalist and their incessant questions about the Queen’s decision. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> “I have nothing more to add to what I already said. I hope you didn't travel all the way here to ask that question. Do you have any other questions?” "Princess Marie told me that your relationship is complicated." "I have nothing further to add." 🎥BT <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrownPrincessMary?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CrownPrincessMary</a> <a href="https://t.co/2SLo3ZG7Cw">pic.twitter.com/2SLo3ZG7Cw</a> — ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristinsQueens/status/1587695273274376193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2022</a></blockquote> Queen Margrethe II of Denmark <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/denmark-s-queen-strips-grandkids-of-royal-titles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stripped four of her grandchildren of their royal titles</a> in hopes they will be “able to shape their own lives to a much greater extent”. The Queen has two sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim, and eight grandchildren. Her sons, their wives, and children all have the titles of count and countess of Monpezat, referring to Margrethe's husband, who was born Henri de Laborde de Monpezat. Prince Joachim’s children - Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13 and Princess Athena, 10 - will not be able to use their “prince” and “princess” titles from January 1, 2023. Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary’s children are not affected by the decision. Princess Mary was dragged into the family drama when Joachim and his second wife Marie said the relationship between Mary and Frederik is “complicated”. Princess Mary defended Queen Margrethe’s decision, saying that change is never easy. “Change can be extremely difficult and can really hurt,” Princess Mary said. “I think most people have tried it. But this does not mean that the decision is not the right one. “… And I can understand that it is a very difficult decision to have to make, and also a very difficult decision to receive.” Images: Twitter

Travel Trouble

6 essential tips for travelling with grandkids

Spending time with the grandkids can be both a rewarding and frustrating experience. While they can be a source of cuddles and homemade artwork, little ones can also bring out the worst in us, leading to family arguments and the testing of even the strongest relationships. So if you are planning a trip with little ones, here’s how to make the most of the opportunity for a family holiday. Get their input Rather than just planning everything out for them, get them to help decide on the itinerary. By getting them involved in the decision making process it makes them feel more of an equal player on the trip. This way they are also less likely to make a fuss when you let them know it’s time to go to the museum now, even when they are having fun in the pool. Lay out the ground rules Let the grandkids know what is going to happen in terms of who pays for what. This could be theme park entries, souvenir purchases, or meals and snacks. This will eliminate issues down the track. Decide on a fair use for electronic devices Though you may not be as obsessed with your smartphone, tablet, gaming console or laptop – your grandchildren might be. Allow them to use their devices for at least a short time each day on your trip, but first check with their parents on the family rules. Feel free to put your own rules in place, such as no devices during meal times. Plan for relaxation time Down time needs to be allowed for each day, as being on the go can be exhausting for both kids and grandparents alike. Build this into your schedule, whether that means naps for little ones, watching movies or just relaxing by the pool. Allow for changes to the plan Don’t be too rigid with your schedule as kids can of course be unpredictable with their moods. If you notice the grandkids are getting tired or emotional it might be a good idea to skip a planned activity in favour of more down time or some time apart. Older children might want to make an unscheduled stop based on a recommendation from someone they meet on the trip. Always take their ideas on board rather than dismissing them, and go for a group consensus if it will affect everyone. Make your own memories Keep in mind that when things go wrong or the weather is bad, this can be an opportunity rather than a disaster. Use these times to talk to the grandkids about times when your travel plans have gone awry and led to a fun or interesting outcome. Purposely take part in activities that you know they will remember as they grow older – it could be trying a fun new food together, sleeping under the stars, trekking up a mountain to watch the sunset, or getting up early to go fishing on the beach together. Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Tips

5 great spots to take your grandkids in Australia

Want a holiday that really is fun for the whole family? These are the best spots in Australia for kids of all ages. To see the destinations, scroll through the gallery above. 1. Canberra, ACT There’s much more to the nation’s capital than politics. Kids will love the interactive and immersive mix of science and play on offer at Questacon as well as the huge adventure playground at the National Arboretum. Hire bikes to ride around the shore of Lake Burley Griffin or a paddleboat to cruise across the calm water under your own steam. At the National Zoo everyone can pat a cheetah, feed a bear or make friends with a cheeky meerkat. 2. Kangaroo Island, SA Australia’s third-largest island is just off the coast of South Australia and manages to be both a gourmet paradise and a kid-friendly funzone. Families can spend their days spotting seals, feeding pelicans, fishing from jetties, tasting native honey and sandboarding down huge sand dunes. At night, the adults can dine on fresh caught marron (washed down with a few glasses of local wine) while the kids tuck into fish and chips. 3. The Top End, NT Start in Darwin, where kids can splash and shriek to their heart’s content in the Waterfront Precinct’s Wave Pool then come face to face with crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove. The Litchfield National Park is just an hour from the city and a great introduction to native wildlife and wetlands (locals say it’s even better than Kakadu). The park is full of easy bushwalking trails, safe swimming holes, waterfalls and camping spots. 4. Mount Selwyn snowfield, NSW Skiing can be an expensive hobby, even more so for a family. Mount Selwyn in the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales is a great value option for families when compared to the other major resorts. There’s a good selection of easy runs for the kids, as well as tougher ones for the grown ups, plus an easily accessible toboggan run. There are even dedicated kids’ clubs from 18 months old with ski lessons and fun indoor and outdoor games. 5. Port Douglas, QLD The Great Barrier Reef really is for everyone and is easily accessible in a day trip from Port Douglas. Little ones can learn to snorkel or take a glass-bottomed boat ride while older children and adults can try scuba diving. Inland, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway soars just metres above ancient rainforest before descending right through the canopy. And you’ll find a fantastic range of resorts that are specifically set up for families, with plenty of pools, waterslides, games rooms and kids’ clubs. Have you been to any of the destinations mentioned above? Are there any other destinations in Australia you think that are great for grandchildren? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Related links: <a href="/travel/international/2016/06/7-australian-holidays-you-can-visit-all-year-round/">7 Australian holidays you can visit all year round</a> <a href="/travel/international/2016/06/the-power-and-beauty-of-crashing-waves-in-australia/">The power and beauty of crashing waves in Australia</a> <a href="/travel/international/2016/06/adorable-baby-koala-explores-world-for-first-time/">Adorable baby koala explores world for first time</a>

Domestic Travel

Denmark’s Queen strips grandkids of royal titles

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has stripped four of her grandchildren of their royal titles in hopes they will be “able to shape their own lives to a much greater extent”. The Queen has two sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim, and eight grandchildren. Her sons, their wives, and children all have the titles of count and countess of Monpezat, referring to Margrethe's husband, who was born Henri de Laborde de Monpezat. Prince Joachim’s children - Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13 and Princess Athena, 10 - will not be able to use their “prince” and “princess” titles from January 1, 2023. Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary’s children are not affected by the decision. “Her Majesty has decided that, as of 1 January 2023, His Royal Highness Prince Joachim's descendants can only use their titles as counts and countess of Monpezat, as the titles of prince and princess that they have held up until now will be discontinued," the Danish royal household said in a statement. "Prince Joachim's descendants will thus have to be addressed as excellencies in the future. “The Queen’s decision is in line with similar adjustments that other royal houses have made in various ways in recent years. “With her decision, Her Majesty The Queen wishes to create the framework for the four grandchildren to be able to shape their own lives to a much greater extent without being limited by the special considerations and duties that a formal affiliation with the Royal House of Denmark as an institution involves.” Image: Getty

News

Woman welcomes 100th great-grandchild ahead of her 100th birthday

A 99-year-old woman has celebrated her 100th birthday early, with the arrival of her 100th great-grandchild. Marguerite Koller, from Pennsylvania in the US, will be celebrating becoming a centenarian in the coming months. However, Marguerite and her family are marking the occasion early with the birth of her 100th great-grandchild, Koller William, named after her late husband. “I'm just thinking how lucky I am,” Marguerite told <a href="https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/montgomery-county-woman-100th-great-grandchild/3331133/">NBC Philadelphia</a> as she held the newest addition to the family, which also includes 11 children and 56 grandchildren. She makes the effort to be there for every baptism and graduation, her family has said in the past, and “has created an amazing legacy spanning through generations,” her granddaughter, Christine Balster, told the local news station. However, Marguerite’s large family almost didn’t happen, as she planned to join a convent and become a nun. She applied to join the local convent when she was a junior in high school, she told <a href="https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/montgomery-county-woman-100th-great-grandchild/3331133/">6 ABC</a> back in 2015, but by the early 1940s, she met William Koller, who she said “talked me out of it.” The couple then welcomed their first child in the Baby Boom after World War II, when Marguerite knew she wanted to have a large family. “I wanted to have a big family. I think it's difficult being an only child — it's lonely.” The couple went on to have 11 children over the span of almost 20 years. Their kids then had a total of 56 grandchildren, who are now the parents of 100 great-grandchildren. She has since credited that big family with keeping her active, and making her feel blessed every holiday even after her husband died in 2008. “It worked out beautifully,” she said. Image credits: Youtube - NBC Philadelphia

Family & Pets

Readers Respond: What would you like your children and grandchildren to remember about you?

We asked our readers to tell us what they want their children and grandchildren to remember most about them. From the unconditional love to the fun you had together as you grew up, here are some of your loveliest responses: Karen TeNyenhuis Rafael - That I loved them unconditionally, equally and always wished the best for them. Jan Hitch - That they were ALL my world, and I loved them, with all my heart. Caroline West - That I love them and always want the best for them. Janine Mason - All the wonderful times we have had together, and that I love them to the moon and back. Geraldine Robertson -I want them to know that I love them twice. Once for themselves and once for their connection to my children. That is mighty love. Kathleen Sheehan - That we had a world of fun and how our faces lit up when we saw each other. Chaz Gartrell - I want them to remember a strong, free minded, hard working woman who was there for them. Glenn Wilcox - That I’ll love them till the end, they fill a place in my heart that will always be full! Di Armstrong - I’m not perfect and whatever my mistakes were they were mine and I have always tried to do better. Also I love them, I may not be with them for all their lives but I will love them for the rest of mine. Zarka Pesa - That they brought so much joy into my life and that I not only loved them but was "in love " with them. Also that I wished they could be safe and protected throughout their life and to have a good life. To leave a memory of your own, or to check out more of the amazing responses head <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/3340803866149876" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Retirement Life

Queen’s great grandchildren playing outside Windsor Castle

An adorable video showing the Queen’s great grandchildren playing outside Windsor Castle has been shared online. The footage shared to Twitter shows the children in a horse drawn carriage outside the castle with photographers nearby. It is unclear which of the Queen’s 12 great grandchildren are there; it is evident that Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Princess Eugenie’s son August are there. Nearby, Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank can be seen looking on and helping the kids get into place. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> So excited!!! The Queen's great grandchildren at Windsor Castle!!! For sure we will have a new portrait for Platinum Jubilee 😍🫶🏻 This will be awesome 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/oGDnXkVdH6">pic.twitter.com/oGDnXkVdH6</a> — 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 (@NewsCambridges) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsCambridges/status/1519640706150965248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2022</a></blockquote> It is rumoured that the photographers are helping piece together the new portrait for Platinum Jubilee in June or Trooping the Colour. The Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II is being celebrated to mark the 70th anniversary of her accession February 6, 1952. The four day UK bank holiday weekend runs from June 2 to June 5 and will include celebrations, public events and community activities. A reflection of the Queen’s 70 years’ reign will be shared as well. Image: Twitter

Family & Pets

Grandma's hilarious ranking system goes viral

Many suspect their grandma may have favourites, but one family knows for sure where they stand thanks to their grandmother’s brutally honest "leaderboard". US comedian Dan LaMorte posted on TikTok explaining the unique feature in his grandmother's house, where at any time family members can look to see how beloved they are in their matriarch's eyes – and heart. "At my grandma’s house she has a board of the ten grandchildren's faces on magnets, and she ranks us from one to ten. I'm eight," he says proudly before cutting the video off. The comedian's TikTok followers found the system hilariously honest. "I would kill for this kind of transparency in my relationships," said one commenter. "I would have told her that she my #2 grandma," added another. "My grandma used to rank us too. She would regularly tell us of our rankings. She's been gone for 4 years, but I talk about her a lot in therapy," said one commenter. "That was the basis behind this. She used to do verbal rankings so we made her a board to do it visually," revealed LaMorte. In a separate video, the comedian displays the rankings again three months on, explaining some of the reasoning behind the shifts in order. He reveals that the number one favourite grandchild lives next door so she moves her ranking herself and is therefore invalid, while number two is a dentist and number three is a doctor. He also adds that he moved up two places, now at sixth place out of the ten grandchildren. "The key is to coast and wait for the others to mess up. The long game," one commenter suggested. "My great-grandmother's favorite grandchild is my childhood dog, whose portrait takes center stage in her home," said another. Image: TikTok

Family & Pets

Should I take a gift? As borders open, how to prepare for reuniting with your grandkids

As border restrictions lift, family reunions are being planned around Australia. This is an exciting but also uncertain time, particularly for grandparents who have been separated from grandchildren. Over the past months (and in some cases, years), grandchildren will have grown and changed. They may have new interests, routines and skills. You may even have the <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1474704919875948" target="_blank">transformative experience</a> of meeting a new grandchild for the very first time. With older grandchildren, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/grandparent-grandchildren-video-calls-are-vital-during-covid-19-here-are-simple-ways-to-improve-them-141534" target="_blank">digital technologies</a> may have kept you in contact and up-to-date. But with younger grandchildren, this is harder, and it may be time to rekindle relationships. We are researchers investigating the roles grandparents play and the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/21582041.2018.1433317" target="_blank">influence</a> this has on families and communities. So, how can grandparents make the most of this time? The special role of grandparents Due to increased lifespans, grandparents have more time and ability to invest in their grandchildren than <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0963721411403269" target="_blank">ever before</a> in human history. The grandparent-grandchild relationship can be a very special one. A grandparent’s involvement in a child’s life, whether through shared actives or a listening ear, is <a rel="noopener" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1099-0860.2009.00215.x" target="_blank">linked</a> to the child’s well-being. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/429276/original/file-20211029-23-1y65rbj.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents hug a baby." /> Researchers are finding increasing evidence of the importance of grandparent-grandchild relationships. Image: Shutterstock The benefits depend on your family situation, but can include improved psychological adjustment for <a rel="noopener" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1728-4457.2011.00379.x" target="_blank">grandchildren</a>, increased <a rel="noopener" href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S004727941700071X" target="_blank">workforce participation</a> for mothers, and a longer and happier life for <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090513816300721" target="_blank">grandparents</a>. The importance of asking questions When preparing to see your grandchildren again, our first suggestion is to ask your grandchild’s parents what they think is a good idea for your first catch-up. What does your grandchild enjoy doing at the moment? What is their daily routine? Is there anything to avoid? If you are meeting a grandchild for the very first time, bear in mind the parents have gone through huge changes since you last met. As with older children, ask the parents what will suit them in terms of visit type and time. Be <a rel="noopener" href="https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/grandparents/family-relationships/being-a-grandparent" target="_blank">open and honest</a> about what support you think you can provide, and be aware the parents needs may change (they may want more or less help than they anticipated). When it comes to discussing the changes a new baby has brought, grandparents are trying to juggle in their mind the thrill of participating in their grandchild’s life, without disrupting or overstepping parents’ boundaries. From our yet to be published research, we understand this is not a simple matter for many families, but starting the conversation is important in maintaining these valuable relationships. Persistent, not pushy Your grandchildren may be feeling shy when you first meet. So even though this may have been a longed-for reunion, you may need to tread carefully. This is perfectly normal and can be overwhelming for everyone. Just take your time, and let them get to know you again. Your first instinct will be to catch up on the thousands of lost hugs, but it may work better stay close by and let them come to you. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/428728/original/file-20211027-27-42qfit.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents playing with grandkids." /> With young children, you don’t have to plan something fancy for your first catch-up. Image: Shutterstock The good news for grandparents is that several research projects have shown what grandchildren <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.hoepflinger.com/fhtop/Grandchildren.pdf" target="_blank">really want</a> is simply for grandparents to be “there when needed”. So just “being there” – interested and available – for your first visit is perfectly fine. This helps reduce expectations of what you feel you need to do. Gifts Your first inclination may be to bring something exciting to play with together. But on top of seeing each other again, rushing in with a new treat might be too much. You will need to read the room. Consider taking something small, or maybe you can keep something in the car and bring it out once everyone has warmed up. Parallel play Play is obviously central to children’s learning and experience. Early in life, however, this may mean playing alone, which may be confusing for some of us. A good way to work with this while rekindling your relationship is parallel play, particularly if a child is aged between two and five. Parallel play involves playing next to your grandchild and letting them come to you when they are ready. This is one way you might need to put the patience and persistence we discussed earlier into practice. Let grandchildren lead (within reason) In the same vein, don’t feel as though you need to take the lead when working out what to do with your grandchild, either. Or that your idea for reading a certain book or doing a particular puzzle is the one your grandchild will go with. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/428727/original/file-20211027-15-34v14w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents push a grandchild on a swing." /> Seeing your grandchild again could be as simple as a walk to the park. Image: Shutterstock Often, seemingly simple activities like a walk to a park are the most rewarding. Here your grandchild has the opportunity to show you about their world and what they like to do on their terms. It is also a good way to see how your grandchild has grown and developed. We want to show our unconditional affection and love for our grandchildren, <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0038026120916104" target="_blank">this feels natural</a>, and we know it can be so valuable. But in the the early stages of getting to know each other again, don’t put pressure on you or them. Being available, interested, curious and patient is enough. Rebecca Bullingham, a masters student in medical and health science at Edith Cowan University, contributed to this article.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/169731/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-coall-408193" target="_blank">David Coall</a>, Senior Lecturer, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720" target="_blank">Edith Cowan University</a> and <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/shantha-karthigesu-1284704" target="_blank">Shantha Karthigesu</a>, Teaching and Research Scholar, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720" target="_blank">Edith Cowan University</a> This article is republished from <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/should-i-take-a-gift-as-borders-open-how-to-prepare-for-reuniting-with-your-grandkids-169731" target="_blank">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

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Denmark’s Queen strips grandkids of royal titles

Woman welcomes 100th great-grandchild ahead of her 100th birthday

Readers Respond: What would you like your children and grandchildren to remember about you?

Queen’s great grandchildren playing outside Windsor Castle

Grandma's hilarious ranking system goes viral

Should I take a gift? As borders open, how to prepare for reuniting with your grandkids