Children are naturally curious, and new experiences will typically inspire them to ask a lot of questions, but they may also cause some uncertainty. While these are common reactions children have when visiting their grandparents in assisted living facilities, there are some steps that you, as a parent, can take to prepare them for the experience and ensure it goes smoothly.

4 Ways to Help Your Child Make the Most Out of a Visit to Assisted Living

1. Remind Kids to Be Respectful

Before arriving at the facility, explain to your child that their grandparent is now sharing their home with other older folks and that these individuals are their neighbors. Stress the importance of being kind and respectful to neighbors. Remind them of the little pleasantries—like saying hello and saying please and thank you—and emphasize how much these small acts of kindness mean.

2. Plan an Activity

Kids are happiest when they are engaged, and both grandchildren and grandparents often enjoy a shared activity. Before you go to the assisted living facility, consider activities that will be fun for your parent and child to partake in together. Suggestions might include a puzzle, a card game, or an easy craft project.

3. Use Inside Voices

There will be a whole new environment for your child to explore once you reach the assisted living community. They may be feeling excited about this new adventure, but beforehand, remind them to use their inside voices. Tell them that they are visiting someone's home and should try to speak at an appropriate volume.

4. Check in With Your Parent

It's no secret that children can sometimes be exhausting. Be mindful of how your parent is doing during the visit so you can be sure not to overtax or emotionally drain them. When the opportunity presents itself, ask Mom or Dad how they're feeling. If they need to rest, honor and respect that.

Following these tips will facilitate a happy and beneficial family visit to a grandparent in an assisted living community. If your parent is looking for a senior care facility to call home, consider Country Villa Assisted Living. With locations in Freedom, Pulaski, and Omro, WI, they offer vibrant senior living communities with world-class amenities, caring and compassionate staff, and a supportive and congenial atmosphere. To arrange a tour, call (920) 422-4620, and visit their website to learn more about the activities they offer.