My grandmother would tell me stories of her childhood before bedtime when I would stay overnight. These tales ranged from exciting and happy, to suspenseful and serious. I clung to every word she said, and would request stories she had already told me before – because I LOVED hearing them. I cherished getting a better picture of what her life was like back then. Story time was quality time spent with someone I love deeply, and who loves me just as deeply back. Listening is a powerful thing to do and makes people feel important, relevant and above all – loved.
There are also many children’s books crafted by authors to share with your grandchildren, too. All-in-all, the message here is this; the more time and experiences you share with your family, the fuller and happier your (and their) life can be!
You might consider crafting a story from your personal experience. These ideas may seem so simple, but grandchildren weren’t around to experience anything like your youth, so share away!
- The day the grandchild/parent was born
- School Days, First dance, Sporting events
- Extracurricular activities/hobbies
- Historical moments
- First job / favorite job
- Proudest / most exciting moments
- How you met your spouse
- Adventures with friends and at home
Recommended Children’s Books
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney: It’s a new school year, and Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into middle school, where undersized weaklings share the hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving.
Cat in the Hat by Dr. Suess: It’s a rainy day and Dick and Sally can’t find anything to do . . . until the Cat in the Hat unexpectedly appears and turns their dreary afternoon into a fun-filled extravaganza!
Cowgirl Katie by Fran Manushkin: Katie is crazy for horses! She pretends her bike is a horse, but its missing a mane and tail. But one day, her dad surprises her with a trip to a ranch, where she’ll get to ride a real horse. Finally Katie’s horse dreams are coming true!
Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey: George and Harold have created the greatest superhero in the history of their elementary school—and now they’ve accidentally brought him to life!
Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst: From the moment Alexander wakes up, everything goes wrong! At the end of his rough day, Alexander learns some days are just like that. All kids experience this type of day, and will be glad to find they are not alone!
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish: From dressing the chicken to dusting the furniture, Amelia Bedelia does exactly what Mr. and Mrs. Rogers tell her. …But somehow things never turn out quite right.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White: This classic novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte.
Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson: The popular Hank the Cowdog series is based on the humorous antics of the canine Head of Ranch Security. In this first book, Hank and his little buddy, Drover, set out to solve a series of baffling murders on the ranch. Is Hank a suspect? An Outlaw? Can he clear his good name?
Frog and Toad Together by Arnold Lobel: Five chapters tell of the adventures of Frog and Toad and is a study of their friendship. From the first enchanting story to the last, these five adventures of two best friends are filled with humor and tender affection.