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Grand Fitness
Exercising with Your Grandchildren By Charlene Torkelson
Now after a new set of twins (that's five children with the oldest only 4 years old!), Grandpa Elofson attends weekly classes not only with Johnny, but with Joey and Abby as well. He says the best part is seeing "the excitement and joy in their faces." The children look forward to those classes each week, andElofson loves to lavish special attention on them during those times together. He likes to see the children learn the focus and discipline of gymnastics as well as learning to be friendly and socially balanced as they participate in a group activity. "The bond that has developed" is the best part,Elofson says.
For another great experience with children this age, try a trip to the park. All the climbing, digging and swinging is just right for an active toddler. Some supervision is required, of course, but much of the enjoyment comes from watching. Older children gladly participate as well. There is always something to try when a swing and slide are involved. It's also a great place to meet other grandparents.
As the grandchildren grow older, there are many more activities, and grandparents are great teachers. They are more than willing to share their own interests and talents with their grandchildren whether it is in golf, bowling, ping pong, tennis or fishing. All are activities that children relish with enthusiasm and carry with them the rest of their lives. How many adults claim they first were introduced to a particular sport or skill from a grandparent? Many grateful adults learned skills they use throughout their lifetimes from patient grandparents who had something to share.
How about a bicycle ride or a game of catch? At a recent fifth grade basketball game, I witnessed a lively game of hoop shooting between one younger sibling and his just-as-enthusiastic grandmother before his brother's team took the court. And how many grandchildren remember a weekend of camping and canoeing with grandparents? There are so many activities that grandparents are able to share with grandchildren, providing not only hours of fun but also educational opportunities.
