Funtastical Blog
"Are you ready to unlock the magic of grandparenting?"
Envisioning Grandparenting to Create a Magical Childhood
Growing up, my father was a disciplinarian. Although he never struck us, he threatened us with his belt or the pida, a Polish paddle defined as a wooden handle with leather straps. Again, he never hit us, but we were not allowed to defy the rules of the house. I grew up in a strict Polish Catholic environment, with thoughts of breaking the rules were not tolerated. But after becoming an adult and having kids of my own, the dynamics changed. No longer was my dad concerned about spilling milk or calling my sister a pig. He was the fun grandfather, with continual pranks and antics with the grandkids. This transformation is what I would like to be when the grandkids arrive.
Finding Your Groove: How to adjust to your new role as a grandparent
Welcome to 'Finding Your Groove: The Grandparent Edition.' I don’t know about you, but I always thought that …grandparents are old, gray hair wrapped into a tight bun, wrinkly smiles and when visiting there was always the smell of something yummy wafting from the kitchen.
I never “got the memo” on grandparenting, I don’t have gray hair, never wore it in a bun and as for baking, let along cooking, the only thing wafting from my kitchen is still smell of something recently burnt.
Comfort Food of the past: Grandparent's Role in Expanding Kids' Horizon
What was your favorite comfort food when you were a child? Mac and Cheese? Sloppy Joe’s? Meatloaf? French Fries? Something else?
For me, it was Polish sausage and sauerkraut. My Busha (a diminutive form of Polish grandmother, but we called her Bushi) was the best cook in the universe. Walking into her house was like walking into heaven. The smell of sauerkraut simmering on the stove permeated the house all the time.
Memorial Day Memories are More than Traditions
Honoring those that gave their lives for their country while serving in the military is the true meaning of Memorial Day. But as a child, it was time for a parade, picnics, and an extra day off from school. We decorated our bikes and dressed according to the theme, patriotic. It was our mini version of a parade float—a celebration time.
Grandma’s Flower Power
Do you have a memory so intense that it feels like it was just yesterday?
We are all the sum parts of what influenced us as children, and I am no different.
Before I was ever tasked to weed a garden, I remember being amazed every summer when my grandmother’s peonies took bloom? For us it was incredible. The peonies were on the sunny side of her house
No Boredom for Kiddos at Grandma’s Camp
Choosing a name for your camp is a personal decision, but many grandparents opt for a generic name like "Grandma’s Camp" or "Grandpa’s Camp," or they may personalize it by using their name. My parents called theirs Camp Cadillac for their grandkids at their lake house in Illinois. Before retirement, my parents dreamed of owning a Cadillac and afterward, they were happy to own several. "Camp Cadillac" is a nod to their post-retirement ownership of several Cadillac cars.
The Fire Princess and her Secret Realm
Did you ever meet a fire princess?
Some of you might think that meeting a fire princess might be easier to do as a child, but I didn't have the opportunity to meet one until I was well into my 20s. She appeared unexpectedly one evening, and I quickly learned a fire princess could always be called upon.
Unlocking Success: The Importance of Teaching as a Key to Learning
The first five years of a child's life are critical for brain development. During this time, the brain is rapidly growing and forming connections that will shape a child's future learning and development. It is important to provide young children with nurturing and stimulating environments to support healthy brain development. So, conversation and teaching are key, during the greatest brain development years.
Intentional Grandparenting Series
These insightful books are designed to strengthen the bond between grandparents and their grandchildren, offering a fresh and humorous perspective on grandparenting. With a mix of wit and wisdom, CJ Corki addresses the common challenges faced by grandparents today, providing practical advice and engaging activities that make grandparenting both fun and meaningful.
