Diary of A Modern Gran | Granny Gets Dizzy
“You’re kidding? You’re going right to the top? It’s taller than a house!”
That was my first thought when my grandchildren took me to the local climbing wall at the weekend.
“Don’t worry, Gan Gan,” says five-year-old George. “It’s not that difficult.”
“Yes, chips in Rose,” aged seven. “We’ve done it once before.”
It’s my own fault. I invited myself along when my son-in-law said he was taking the children while my daughter is away for the weekend with some old school friends. How I admire the way that this generation of young couples seems quite relaxed about one of them going off with a short break while the other holds the fort. It’s so healthy to have a break!
Of course I offered to be of some help to my son-in-law, although he is more than capable. I really love being with the children and I’m so lucky to live round the corner. So when they said the words “climbing wall” on Sunday morning, I jumped at the chance. I’ve always wanted to see what one was like.
In case you don’t know what it’s like, it’s a sort of adventure playground in a room with very high walls. They are divided into long strips with different surfaces like holes or ledges. Kids (and adults) are strapped into harnesses and climb up and up and up…!
If they want to, they can lower themselves at any time.
Now we’re here, my heart is in my mouth. In fact, to be frank, I’m petrified even thought I am going as an observer/helper, rather than a participant. What if they fall?
I need not have worried. It was all very well organised. We listen to an instructor showing us how to put on the harnesses and going over various rules. I say “we” because although my son-in-law and I hadn’t signed up to climb ourselves, we (and other carers) are allowed in with them to stand at the bottom of the walls.
We are shown how to clip the children in safely to the abseil line long whichever section of the wall they choose, using a metal thingamajig at the end of the mat which was below the wall. If the mat is laid out flat, it means someone else is already climbing that section. It’s really important, you don’t tread on the mat, otherwise someone could land on top of you.
George immediately sets off for the heights. I can barely look. Rose follows suit on another wall. But after a while, something strange happens. I actually start to enjoy watching them instead of looking through closed fingers.
I really admire my son-in-law for encouraging them to keep going, even when they were a bit nervous. I can see them growing in confidence.
The time goes past really quickly although Rose is a little upset at the end. “I didn’t get right to the top, like George.”
“It doesn’t matter,” I say. “In life, you don’t always have to get to the top to be successful. Just stop when you’ve had enough and enjoy what you can and want to do.”
Afterwards, while we’re chilling out in the café, my lovely daughter texts. “Is everyone alright?”
“We’re fine,” I text back. “Here are some pictures!”
Meanwhile I’ve been inspired to have a go myself. In fact, I’ve already rung round some granny mates and we’re planning a day out at the climbing wall in a few weeks’ time.
Watch this space!
Ask Agony Gran
“I recently went to stay with my son and daughter-in-law, and my three grandchildren, aged between four and nine. To my horror, I found that the children watched the iPad during meals. My daughter-in-law said they were watching educational cartoons. I wanted to say that I thought it was far more educational to have family conversation, but I thought that might cause problems. So I held my tongue. However, I am due to visit them in the summer holidays and really feel I should say something. What do you think?” Name withheld
Jane says:
My immediate reaction is to stay mum! Obviously the choice is up to you, but personally I’d be very wary of telling your son and daughter-in-law that they are doing something wrong. It could so easily lead to a family argument, which might take a long time to heal. If it was a matter of safety, it would be different. However, maybe these videos are educational. Perhaps the children are learning something while they eat.
It might not be the way we did it as parents. And it might not be the way our parents did it. I remember being told off for wanting to read a book at the table. But times change. If I were you, when you visit next time I would sit next to them while they eat and watch the video with them. Ask them what the storyline is and get interested. This will lead to more of a two-way conversation and break down any barriers. You might even learn a few things yourself!
On the other hand, you could be a disapproving granny, which won’t really endear you to the children– especially as you aren’t able to visit very often. Good luck.
The Funny Things They Say
Thanks to Anne for sending this in.
“My grandchildren and their parents came round to our place to watch the coronation. When the commentator said that they were about to put the crown on King Charles’ head, my four-year-old grandson piped up, ‘Then why does Grandad wear his crown in his mouth?’”
We loved that, Anne. Thank you. Please keep sending the funnies in. You can email them to us at moderngran@dcthomson.co.uk.
Feedback
Your column about encouraging your grandchildren to do their homework during the teachers’ strike took me back to the time when I helped my then ten-year-old daughter with hers. The teacher wrote at the bottom, “Ten out of ten to Susie’s mother!” Claire from Luton
“I liked reading about your school reunion and meeting your old history teacher. My granddaughter is being taught by the daughter of my old English teacher!” Sally from Cardiff
Family News
This week, we spotted a news article which predicted that long marriages would soon be a thing of the past. How do you feel about that? Does it make you wonder what marriage will be like for your grandchildren and great-grandchildren? We’d love to hear your thoughts on this. You can email us at moderngran@dcthomson.co.uk.
Where To Take The Grandchildren
Looking for a day out? I’ll bring you a new suggestion every week.
This time we’re taking a walk on the wild side at Shepreth Wildlife Park, Royston, Herts. Tel 01763 262226, sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk
A wonderful wildlife sanctuary with tigers, otters, monkeys, leemurs, meercats and many more animals. Don’t forget to visit the Nocturnal House!
Children’s Book of the Week
This time I’ve picked Only Children by David Baddiell, illustrated by Jim Field and Steven Lenton. Harper Collins, £12.99, age 8 plus.
We loved these three stories about a magical babysitter, steam trains and seaside holidays!
