How Playing With Your Grandchildren Keeps Your Mind Active
As we get older, it is only natural that we play less than we did as children.
One of the reasons play is so important for children is the learning and developmental benefits they get from it. For example, mastering their hand-eye coordination, learning to problem-solve, and communicating with others.
However, this need to participate in activities and games also applies to adults. While there is no direct evidence yet that keeping our brain active with games can reduce the risk of dementia, it has been shown to improve memory and reasoning skills.
Additionally, games are social, and stimulating our brains keeps our senses, balance, and coordination in check too.
Games and activities also provide a great opportunity to bond with those who play best – children. In fact, one of the most enviable parts of being a grandparent is that you get to have all the fun playing, before being able to hand them back at the end of the day!
Engaging in activities together can be a surprising two-way learning process as well. For example, you may have the skill to pass on such as model-making, knitting, gardening or baking. These are great as they are relaxing activities which also have the lovely benefit of preserving a skill from one generation to the next.
Children will equally get a lot out of being able to explain something to you. As our world becomes increasingly tech-savvy, often they may be more exposed to technology on a daily basis than we are! They will love the opportunity to show their expertise in explaining how something works.
There are also plenty of exciting games out there that can get you started. While for younger children it is important to keep play simple and fun, older children might be interested in more creative, problem-solving activities and asking questions.
THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING WITH GRANDCHILDREN
1. Cognitive Health and Memory Improvement
While there is no direct evidence yet that keeping our brains active with games can reduce the risk of dementia, research has shown that mental stimulation can significantly improve memory and reasoning skills. Playing games with your grandchildren is a fun way to exercise your brain, keeping it agile and responsive.
As you engage in various activities, whether it’s solving puzzles, playing board games, or simply conversing with your grandchildren, your cognitive abilities are put to the test. This mental workout helps maintain your cognitive function and can contribute to a sharper mind as you age.
2. Social Interaction and Emotional Well-being
Games are inherently social activities. When you play with your grandchildren, you create opportunities for meaningful social interaction. This not only helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation but also provides a strong emotional support system.
Interacting with your grandchildren, sharing laughter, and even dealing with the occasional playful disagreement can be emotionally enriching. These shared experiences can lead to stronger bonds and a sense of fulfillment.
3. Physical Well-being and Balance
Physical play with your grandchildren can also have significant benefits for your physical well-being. Activities like tag, hide-and-seek, or simply going for a walk can help you stay active and maintain balance and coordination.
Keeping up with the energy and enthusiasm of children can be a delightful workout in itself. It’s an excellent way to ensure that you stay physically active, which is crucial for overall health, especially as you age.
4. Skill Transfer and Learning
Engaging in activities together can be a two-way learning process. As a grandparent, you likely have a wealth of skills and knowledge to pass on. Activities such as model-making, knitting, gardening, or baking can be not only enjoyable but also educational for your grandchildren. These hobbies allow you to share your expertise and preserve traditional skills from one generation to the next.
On the flip side, children today often have a deep understanding of technology. They may be more tech-savvy than you are, and they love the opportunity to showcase their expertise in explaining how something works. This exchange of knowledge can be an incredible bonding experience and a chance for you to learn from them.
5. Creativity and Problem Solving
Games and activities also provide opportunities for creativity and problem-solving. While younger children may enjoy simple, imaginative play, older grandchildren may be interested in more complex activities that involve creative thinking and strategizing.
Engaging in these types of activities can help stimulate your brain, enhance your problem-solving skills, and foster creativity. It’s a great way to keep your mind agile and adaptable.
Playing with your grandchildren is not just about having fun; it’s a powerful tool for keeping your mind active and your emotional well-being in check. The benefits extend beyond the immediate joy of spending time together; they encompass cognitive health, social interaction, physical well-being, skill transfer, and fostering creativity. So, seize the opportunity to play, bond, and learn with your grandchildren—it’s a win-win for both generations.
Remember, it’s not about winning or losing in these games; it’s about the moments you create and the memories you build together. Embrace the joy of play and cherish these precious moments with your grandchildren.