Grillin’ with My Grandchild^©: multigenerational programming for grandfathers and grandchildren

ABSTRACT

This article describes the Grillin’ with My Grandchild^© multigenerational relationship education program which is designed to encourage the enhancement and maintenance of a meaningful grandfather-grandchild relationship. During this multi-session program, grandfather and grandchild participants engage in several activities which include creating an electronic memory book as well as grilling and eating food together. They learn through facilitated discussion and by sharing personal experiences what it means to be a grandfather and a grandchild. Facilitated discussion about nutritional grilling practices and safe food grilling are implemented at each session. Grandfather-grandchild dyads interact with other familial dyads in their group and experience a sense of community and familiarity. Future research into the relational and psychological benefits of the program are suggested.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Cassandra Spaeth, Michelle Treber, Pat Brinkman, Tammy Jones, Cyndi Renn, and Kevin Lancki for their contributions to the curriculum and to programming.

Additional information

Funding

Initial program funding was provided by SourcePoint, a senior center in Delaware County, Ohio.