GRAND Magazine - June 2009 - 36

Welcome Words for tense times dr. Watson agrees that in almost any situation, “i” statements can be used effectively by grandparents. Among their benefits is the fact that they require only a one-word response: “thanks.” “i always enjoy watching you play.” “i was proud of you today—for many reasons.” “i notice how you and your teammates stick together, no matter what.” “i like your friends. All of you seem to be close, win or lose.” child who knocked the puck in the wrong goal or dropped the fly ball, ‘You are more than that one mistake. Other players made mistakes today—and you made some good plays earlier— remember?’” As for times when an older grandchild may ask for feedback following a losing game or a technically shaky performance, a grandparent should give tactful but honest responses, with an eye—when possible—to offering concrete tips. “First,” Watson says, “if you want your grandchild to continue to seek you out for information, give credible responses. Don’t say, ‘Oh, don’t worry. No one noticed when you forgot to tag the base.’” Equally unhelpful are general remarks that may seem personal in nature, such as telling your grandchild to “be a winner” or “play more aggressively.” Instead, if you have technical suggestions, don’t be afraid to offer them—for exam- ple, “Stand closer to the plate when you bat,” or “Keep an eye out for teammates who might be open when you’re not.” Best of all, grandparents often have more free time to help the child work on needed skills. Quality time is ensured when a young point guard can practice her foul shooting with grandma or grandpa rebounding. In the same way, a baseball, a couple of gloves and an intergenerational pairing can make for an hour of fun—not to mention the pleasant lifetime memories. For grandparents inclined and able to play even more active roles, Watson points out that many sandlot leagues are crying out for volunteers. “Our own league requires a ‘commissioner’ for each division of each sport, and the parents are worn thin. These are positions for which grandparents are well suited—tasks that can be done by individuals with enthusiasm, good organizational skills and flexible schedules.” G the perfect bleAcher purse • is large enough to hold a bottle of water • has a secure zipper closure (for the inevitable tipping or tumbling moment) • has a horizontal (anti-tipping) shape with a flat (anti-tipping) bottom • contains breath mints, chewing gum, safety pins, bobby pins • contains individual (for your grandchild only) sandwich bags with over-the-counter aids for headache, indigestion and— especially—diarrhea! • contains at least two packets of Kleenex (one to use and one to share) • contains single dollar bills and loose change (for snack machines) 36 GRAND JUNE 2009
GRAND Magazine - June 2009

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of GRAND Magazine - June 2009
