It was my distinct pleasure to sit down this afternoon with four local grandmothers (and one great-aunt) and talk about the needs of this community. These grandparents are doing everything under the sun with their grandchildren, including play doh, cooking, sewing, baking, painting, gardening, tea parties, dress up, and in the words of one enthusiastic grandparent "doing a lot of clapping!" Some even mentioned making snow-angels and ski-jumping on the wii.
They expressed concerns about the intense schedules children keep these days, while noting a lack of activities for children too young for kindergarten. They hope for more kid-friendly cultural events in the area and more opportunities for kids to make cross-cultural connections. Also on the wish-list: a clean, safe place to have playdates outside of private homes (and not associated with fast food).
Most of all, there was a great sense of joy in the room. Thanks again, ladies, for a wonderful afternoon.
