I am a grandmother of nine, 2 girls and 7 boys. Each and every one of them is special in their own unique way. This past summer, I came to know two of my teenaged grandsons in new ways, as they came to live with me. It has been an exciting adventure so far. 

Growing up, my grandparents were some of the most influential people in my life. I received unconditional love from them, especially my maternal grandfather. We went on many adventures together, from driving the back roads around his farm to sneaking away for a burger and fries. As I got older and had my driver’s license, I would drive him around the same back roads. He and my other grandparents have long since passed away, but their influence in my life remains. Just last week, I made bread and cookies using my grandmothers’ recipes. This brought back many happy memories. 

With my 18-year-old grandson, I try to be a sounding board when he has big decisions to make. I encourage him to think through the situation or problem from multiple perspectives and weigh his options before he chooses his course of action. I do not always agree with his decisions, but I respect his right to make his own and I’m there to help him process the outcomes without judgment. 

My 14-year-old grandson loves soccer. I am unable to play with him due to my physical disabilities, so I make arrangements as often as I can for him to get together with extended family and friends. When he first came to live with me, he struggled to use his voice to ask for what he wanted and needed. Now, he is finding his voice, he is able to see results from using his words, and his needs are being met in new ways. 

One of my most important roles is connecting my grandchildren to their First Nations culture. Together we have gone to sweats, ceremonies to obtain their traditional or ceremonial names, listened to Elders talk about the different medicines and their uses, and incorporated smudging into their lives. I also connect them to their ancestors by telling stories about those who have passed on, how their lives have shaped ours, and how tradition continues and evolves over time. 

One tradition that my grandsons really appreciate is sitting around the table together to share our meals. Not only is there food to be shared, we also talk about our day, make plans for activities we want to share together, and reflect on how our shared past impacts our future. I must admit, helping with high school math and science is a challenge, but it never hurts to review past learnings and gain new perspectives. Even homework can be a source of adventure. 

What if your grandparents are not around? Visit a local seniors centre, retirement home, or long-term care facility. Many seniors are lonely for many different reasons and could benefit from being adopted by a youth, teen, or young adult. There are so many benefits that can result. Create your own history together, traditions, and stories.