Once your grandchild turns 15, he’s bound to be up for some challenging projects around the house -- even if he doesn't let on how psyched he is. We’ve come up with three interactive ways for you to spend time with your teenage grandkids that even they will find cool!
Talk into the wee hours
It can take a while for an older teen to open up. That's why you may want to book an overnight with your grandchild. When a visit is less rushed, there will be more time to unwind. Before you know it, the details about the last date he went on or the tiff she had with her best friend will start easing out. This can be a long string of hours to keep them entertained, so avoid boredom by making a solid plan for what you'll actually do together.
Plot an evening activity ahead of time. The plan can be as simple as skipping your favorite show so that the two of you can watch his favorite film or TV show instead. (Score major points by surfing the Internet pre-viewing to learn who’s who in the cast of characters).
In the morning, make breakfast together. Teach him a thing or two about how to make an omelet. Then, invite him to cook one for you. Who cares if your entire kitchen gets covered with splattered egg? This is quality time you're spending with your grandson, here.
Bake cookies — from scratch
If your grandchild is a budding Rachael Ray or Jamie Oliver (or, even if not), show him or her a thing or two about baking. Pick a favorite recipe, or, if you're feeling adventurous, try something new together. When the cookies cool and you’re noshing on them over tall glasses of milk, praise your grandchild. One recent study shows that teenagers receive far less praise at their age than when they were younger. All the more reason to compliment them — often — for a job well done.
Invite them to do a project with you
It may seem as if all your teenage grandkids want to do is update their MySpace or Facebook pages. But, there’s a good chance they'll jump at the chance to dive into a household project with you. Customize the project to his or her passions. If she’s mentioned an interest in gardening, pick a patch of soil and plant tomatoes or carrots together. If he’s told you he likes to paint, head to the home supply store to pick out colors for the spare room. Then, splash on the paint together.
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