Spending Meaningful Time with Grandparents
Every member has unique talents and skills that they bring to the family. Skills that, if we were to lose a family member tomorrow, we would be losing all that knowledge. And grandparents, being the most experienced at life (and wisest), have a bundle of life’s tasty tidbits of knowledge and passion to pass on.
While it’s always a good time to record them, Grandparent’s Day is very special for devoting time to indulge grandparents in their interests, their passion. They are always doting on grandchildren and grown children, let them have the spotlight. Show them that they have made an impact on your life and, with this film, will continue to do so once they are no longer here.
It’s really quite easy - grab a recording device such as a smartphone or tablet or camera and grab a grandparent (gently). Have them talk about their passion, their interest or talent while you and the kiddos record and ask them questions; how did you become interested in this? What advice would you have for someone wanting to start? Can you show me?
No ideas coming to mind right away? Here are some to help brainstorm:
A recipe. For a sauce, dessert, even a cocktail? Has it been in the family? Does it hold special meaning? Prepare it together or let them take center stage, like it’s their very own cooking show. Narrate the steps out loud. If the recipe isn’t printed already - write/type it, save it and share it with all members. You can also have it printed on a keepsake, like a wooden cutting board or framed, lots of ideas on Etsy!
A special talent. Knitting, woodworking, painting, ceramics, crafting, playing an instrument…pick a project to do together from start to finish. If it takes a bit of time, you can time lapse - there are a few free apps that do this for you. I believe most modern phones even have the feature built-in. Capture past projects they are most proud of.
Interests or passions. Do they have a passion for fashion? Obsession with organization? Love of landscaping? Talk about it. Interview them like they are a subject matter expert - asking their opinions and preferences and refraining to voice yours! (Just this once!) Let them speak freely and share all they know and love.
The majority of my films are interviewing clients about their life story - what their childhood was like, memories of their wedding and starting of a family. While we may touch upon their talents and hobbies, we don’t dive deep into them. Their interests are also a very important part of your family’s history. Taking the time to record them acknowledges their important role in your life and the family’s history.