Grandparents are so much more than occasional babysitters, so if your children have blessed you with a new generation, you have a chance to enrich their lives (and your own) by starting some traditions that help them learn some of what you know without them feeling that they are being taught. Here are a few ideas you can use "as is" or adapt to fit your circumstances:

• Explore your "stuff" with them with attic, basement, garage and closet tours. They'll learn about you, their family, and history generally through all the stuff you've accumulated over the years.

• Go fishing. Boys and girls alike are always up for a little fishing, either on a boat, off a dock or in a nearby pond. They like the gear, and the process, and if they actually catch fish, they're faces light up in delight.

• Take a girl on a "beauty day" visit to the salon or mall, or do something at home. Even a simple nail painting session can be very relaxing and the perfect time for a girl-to-girl
  chat.

• Do something that interests your grandchild. Take a granddaughter to the ballet, or the grandson on a train ride - whatever interests them and gets them excited.

• Tell them stories, no matter how old they are. Read books, make up stories, create some together and write them down in a notebook (and illustrate them, too). 

• Write each grandchild a letter. Write one when each is born, then others when they each reach milestones in their lives.

• Teach them a skill. Do you crochet, build furniture, paint, cook the best chicken and noodles in the state? Show your grandchild how to start a budget, how to care for cows, how to grow blackberries. Whatever you know, share some of it with them.

• Make something together. The possibilities are endless.

• Go on a nature walk or visit a park or zoo. If you aren't physically fit, it's a great way to get back into exercise. If you just don't have the energy, try children's museums or nature centers.  

• Play a game, throw a ball. The possibilities here are endless too.

• Take your grandchild on a trip. It's a great learning opportunity, creates special memories - and doesn't need to be long or costly.

• Volunteer together. Go to a food bank or rescue mission to donate food, clothing or toys, then go out to lunch. 

• Just show up. Attend as many sports, scout meetings, dances and other events as you can. Never forget that your presence is definitely looked forward to and appreciated by your grandchildren.