Grandparents at PEPS recently shared about the legacy they are creating with their children and grandchildren.
Some have concrete things to give to children and grandchildren, like a historical flag, family furniture, jewelry that has been passed down, and those treasures made as a child.
Others mentioned how they are sharing their experiences and passions, such as the love of travel, a love of the outdoors and hiking, the value of social justice and standing up for one another, spending time with the grandchildren and providing care for them.
Grandparents are also creating traditions like bringing a library book every time they visit or and selecting a special book once a year as a keepsake for their grandchildren.
Photo books can be a meaningful legacy, or digitizing photo albums, uploading and sharing pictures online.
Many grandparents plan to write down their life story, life experiences, and their take on historical events they experienced.
And, what about recording the stories you tell to your grandchildren in your own voice? Another great idea.
You can write letters to your grandchildren in cursive handwriting, a beautiful practice that grandparents can share, that future generations may see less frequently.
Grandparents leave a legacy just by being there, but these ideas – and your own – can help when future generations ask the question, “I wish I knew what Grandma, Grandpa, Mom and Dad thought about….”
Resources
- Story corps and free app
- Samples of books to guide you in writing down your life story
- An article about grandparents’ written legacy
- Buy Nothing Groups – If you want to downsize, and gift items that you no longer need (and your children don’t want!), this might be a great way to gift them to someone who would enjoy them. These groups are organized by neighborhood via facebook and you can find your group here.
- Book: Good to Go: A Guide to Preparing for the End of Life
- Book: The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting: Raising Children with Courage, Compassion, and Connection – try the audiobook. Hint: also makes a great gift for your child(ren).
- Find more resources for Grandparents at PEPS
Things to do with your grandchildren
- Get a Museum Pass with your Seattle or King County Public Library card to reserve and print out an admission pass to participating Seattle museums at no charge.
- PEPS lists of Activities all around our area, includes parks, pools, gardens, animals and more:
- Library story times: Seattle Public Library and King County Library System
- Toddler Time at the Environmental Science Center at Seahurst Park in Burien
- Discover the Olympic Sculpture Park and Myrtle Edwards Park
- Local area parenting magazines, including great event calendars filled with kid-friendly outings: ParentMap; Seattle’s Child; and Red Tricycle.
PEPS recognizes the vital role of grandparents in their children’s and grandchildren’s lives and offers opportunities for grandparents to come together for support, shared information, and learning. Find out more about PEPS for Grandparents, including events, resources, Happy Hours and more!
