Busy summer for grandparents
June
2005
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This summer, more grandparents than
ever are going to be spending time caring for their
grandchildren, according to recently compiled figures from TV
children’s programme, Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks.
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There are 13.5 million grandparents in the UK - an all-time high -
and recent estimates reveal that they provide some 60% of childcare
in the UK.
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Over 90% of first-time mothers get help with their first child
from their mothers.
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Government figures show that the economy would lose out to the
tune of ?1.2bn if childcare was not provided by grandparents.
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It’s not just the numbers: recent
research by the Grandparents Association has revealed a vital mentoring
role, teaching verbal and reading skills to the new generation,
conversing with them in an adult way and taking the time to explain new
ideas with them.
What to do, where to go with the grandchildren
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Storytelling: According to research by the Grandparents Association,
pre-school children identified laughing with and talking to their
grandparents as the ‘best’ thing about them.
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Projects: Start a long-term project such as planting sunflower seeds
in a paper cup filled with earth. You can transplant them during another
visit. Or start a scrapbook collecting together mementos from your
outings together.
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Cooking: Children love getting into a mess in the kitchen - especially
if there's a mixing bowl to lick or chocolate to try! Share some of your
favourite recipes and be prepared for spills.
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Games: Board games offer social interaction, fun and development of
the mind. Grandparents keen to get involved could look at introducing
one of their old favourites e.g. checkers, drafts or monopoly.
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Outings: Not just a trip to the park. Organise fishing excursions,
boat rides, art gallery, aquarium. Try the library for leaflets on
places to go. Get to a local farm. Click on:
http://www.farmgarden.org.uk
to find a farm near you to visit.
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Museums: Call the museum and discuss your grandchildren, their ages,
and their interests to check if a museum is suitableClick on
http://www.show.me.uk
to find a museum suitable for kids near you.
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Videos: OK. Enough of all this activity. Time for a rest. If you run
out of videos for children, try the local charity shop.
The Grandparents Association
http://www.grandparents-association.org.uk
has available online:
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The Grandparents' Treasure Chest: A Journal to Memories to Share with
Your Grandchildren ~ Edward Fays
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Totally Cool Grandparenting: A Practical Handbook of Tips, Hints &
Activities for the Modern Grandparent ~ Leslie Linsley
For a full list of places to entertain grandchildren visit:
www.visitengland.com or call 0845 456 3456 for a free copy of the
Enjoy
England Holiday Planner
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