The Gifts of Being Grand: For Grandparents Everywhere (Marianne Richmond)
Marianne Richmond Series
on Goodreads (46)
What’s inside...
The Gifts of Being Grand by Marianne Richmond celebrates the joys and rewards of grandparenthood with lyrical poetry and vibrant illustrations. The book reflects on the past experiences of parenting, the celebration of one's own children, and the delights of being a grandparent. It highlights the special gifts that come with this stage of life, including a new name, hugs, kisses, patience, adventure, and fun. Ideal for both seasoned and new grandparents, this book serves as a heartfelt reminder of the richness of grandparenting.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some special moments you remember sharing with your grandparents?
How do the gifts the grandparents give in the book make their grandchild feel?
Can you think of a gift that you would like to give to your grandparents? What makes it special?
How do the grandparents in the book show their love and care?
What does this story teach us about the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading, emphasize the emotions conveyed through the illustrations and text to help your child understand the depth of the grandparent-grandchild relationship.
Relate the scenarios in the book to personal experiences your child has had with their grandparents to make the discussion more tangible and meaningful.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine other gifts that represent love and care, which can be shared between generations.
Use the book as a starting point to share your own stories or memories about your grandparents, fostering a deeper family connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family connections
Explanation: The book celebrates the special relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren, highlighting the love, wisdom, and guidance that grandparents provide.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and maintain close ties with all family members, understanding the importance of familial support and togetherness in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for life's simple moments
Explanation: Through various scenarios depicted in the book, it teaches children to cherish the simple and often overlooked moments with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to find joy in everyday situations such as a walk in the park or a quiet evening storytelling with grandparents, fostering a sense of gratitude and mindfulness.
Example Lesson: Respect and empathy for the elderly
Explanation: The narrative portrays grandparents in a positive, respectful light, allowing children to see the elderly as individuals who offer valuable life experiences and lessons.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop respect and empathy for older people in their communities, promoting intergenerational harmony and understanding.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: The book illustrates how grandparents often give their time, attention, and love unconditionally, teaching children the happiness that comes from giving without expecting anything in return.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be generous and thoughtful, applying this attitude in sharing with and caring for others around them, whether it be at home, school, or in broader social contexts.