Building a good relationship with your grandkids may seem like a difficult task to accomplish. Some grandparents don't really feel that they know how to connect with their grandkids or that they have nothing in common. After all, their world is completely different from the days of yesteryear.

The truth is, however, that you really do have more in common with your grandkids than you might think. Work to find out their interests. It may surprise you how much you share or at least you might share the same interests when you were their age. This will give you a place to start. As you find out their interests, work to plan activities around their interests while you are spending time with them. They will ultimately see the effort you are making to spend time doing things with them that they care about and they will appreciate your efforts. It should be noted that activities don’t have to be on a grand level; simply going to a movie, making dinner together, or discussing a book are sufficient activities.

Once you have discovered their interests, the key is to simply spend time with them. It is important to remember that kids these days are usually extremely busy and may not be available for great amounts of one-on-one time. However, being there to cheer them on during sporting events or ballet recitals can show them how much you love and support them in the things that they are doing.

Another way to create a good relationship with your grandkids is to establish an open line of communication. If you have worked to create a certain level of trust you might be surprised how much they will seek your opinion and guidance. When they come to you, remember to spend more time listening and less time telling them what to do; that’s what their parents are for. Many times kids just need someone they can vent to and open up to.

One other important factor to consider is when listening and giving advice when appropriate, remember to support what the parents say and recognize that it wouldn’t be appropriate to go against the parents’ advice or wishes. Grandparents should never be stuck in the middle of an argument. They must remain neutral.

When grandparents have a desire to have a good relationship with their grandkids the most important factor is showing your love towards your grandkids. A grandparent’s love is so important and can be a big contributing factor to the character that grandkids develop. Grandkids will look to you as a mentor, a friend, and a confidant.