Families For Life | Bonding across generations!
An inter-generational family might have decades between them. When this is the case, inter-generational bonding may seem impossible. Don’t worry because we are here to nip that thought in the bud. Bonding across generations is achievable. Scroll down to find our tips to help the different generations in your family get along!
Inclusivity regardless of age
Ever noticed how younger members of the family are commonly seated separately from the older ones at family events? This creates a clear distinction between the different generations. The young ones might perceive that they should only interact with their generation. Eventually, it could lead to them avoiding conversing with older relatives or only engaging in small talk. You can create a shared space for everyone at gatherings to stop this from happening. If your children keep to themselves, get them to join the family fun with everyone else. Not having distinguished spaces for different groups of the family stops kids from developing the perception that there is a space where they belong.
Encourage inter-generational conversation
Ensure that everyone’s questions, opinions, or perspectives matter regardless of their age group. Making this a common practice during inter-generational family bonding time fosters a safe space for inter-generational conversation. Like adults, the younger generation has their unique take on things, but they might not share it if they don’t feel confident it will matter.
Encouraging inter-general conversation during your family bonding time helps younger family members be comfortable and more open when it comes to conversing with their older relatives. Get the young ones to converse with older family members about common interests. Get them to ask older family members about how things were in the past. Story-telling is a great example of inter-generational conversation. Not only will this pique the interests of the younger generation but it also allows for the older generation to reminisce the good ol' days.
Plan activities that are more general than niche
When it comes to inter-generational family bonding time, it is important to understand that family members from various age groups might have their own set of niche interests. Not all family members will enjoy the niche activities that you plan for family bonding time. You might have a penchant for fishing but it's not something everyone enjoys, turning the activity dull for them. Understanding this helps you plan activities that most of the family generally fancy. There isn’t a definite set of activities that everyone would enjoy. You know your family best. Finding the best family bonding activities can also take some experimenting. For starters, you can plan activities like having a meal or watching a movie together for your family bonding time.
Mutual Learning
Leonardo da Vinci once famously said, learning never exhausts the mind. As old as some of your family members may be, learning is something that always piques interest. Mutual learning is a great way to foster bonding across the various age groups that co-exist in your family. Older family members can share life lessons and advice with the younger family members. The younger family members, on the other hand, can share things about how to maximise the use of some new technological gadgets.
Physical affection is just as important
Amidst all the conversations and activities your family partakes in together, it is important to remember the importance of physical affection. Something as trivial as a hug, a friendly pat, a handshake or holding hands can help strengthen bonds between your family members. A great way to express affection and love between the various family members. Actions speak louder than words. Physical affection helps family members reach a more personal and deeper level among each other.
By following our tips we hope you and your family create some beautiful memories during your bonding sessions. Good luck!