I’m a grandmother to three wonderful teenagers. This summer, they’ve been glued to their phones more than ever. I’ve tried suggesting outdoor activities, board games, and even baking, but I can’t seem to compete with their screens. I’m worried I’m losing my connection with them. Do you have any advice for a grandma who just wants to make a few more summer memories before they’re all grown up?
Sincerely,
Grandma Wants to Connect
Dear Grandma,
Your desire to connect with your grandchildren is a beautiful gift, and it’s a sentiment many grandparents share in this digital age. The key isn’t to compete with technology, but to find a way to join them in their world while gently inviting them into yours.
Instead of suggesting a completely screen-free activity, try a “tech-integrated” one. Ask them to teach you how to play their favorite mobile game or to create a short, funny video with you for an app like TikTok or Instagram. This shows you value their interests and gives them a chance to be the experts.
After you’ve met them on their turf, propose a trade. Say, “That was so much fun! Now that you’ve taught me something new, would you be willing to let me teach you my secret cookie recipe?” Frame it as a fun exchange of skills. You could even use their phones to document the baking process, creating a digital scrapbook of your time together. It’s not about eliminating screens, but about finding a balance where genuine, multi-generational memories can be made.
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