The more often you do it, the easier it becomes. If the
mechanics of writing or drawing is the problem, then audiotape. The
point is to interact and communicate with a grandchild so that the
youngster knows of your caring, and that caring is normal. Grandchild
will readily grasp that Grandma or Grandpa wants to share, and that
sharing is fine.
The type of communication most desired by my grandchildren until their
fifth or sixth years, and under the circumstances of the distance between
us, was the letter-story. The written stories evolved out of our infrequent
family get-togethers. Occasionally, an idea for a story called for follow-
up negotiations over the telephone to clarify plots, scenes, and characters.
My grandchildren liked the stories, and both they and I enjoyed the
discussions that preceded the writing. The give-and-take stimulated our
imaginations and creativity, and often provided me with opportunities to
pass along family history.
Today's youngsters know more about the world than children of
previous generations, one of the many benefits of our expanding
telecommunication capabilities and greater education and travel
opportunities.
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