Rain, Rain, Go Away
Grandparents have a special role in their grandchildren’s lives where they get to create traditions and make memories without a lot of the difficult parenting responsibilities.
Many families have all kinds of fun, out-of-the-ordinary things kids get to do at grandma’s house, but sometimes bad weather can throw a wrench in things. These local grandmothers share their solutions for chasing away their grandkids’ rainy day blues.
Tacia Taylor
“I was often told that when those grandbabies come, you will experience a different type of love. I must admit that is a true statement. My granddaughter, Nola, has brought so much joy to my heart. At the tender age of two, she already loves reading and being adventurous outdoors. On rainy days, she selects her favorite books and hands them to me one by one to read out loud with her. Her other favorite rainy day activity is sampling new food ideas for my business. Nola has some allergies that require me to be creative in crafting New Orleans cuisine but without food allergens. Cooking with Mimi will be the next rainy day activity when she becomes age appropriate. My plan is to teach her my recipes and allow her to take the family business to higher heights!”
Debra Lusk
“I am an educator, so I do my best to encourage my grandchildren to read or do artwork when we are restricted to inside activities. However, staying at home is not always acceptable to them. In that case, we have to be a little more creative, and thankfully, there are some great indoor options in Chattanooga that are both fun and educational. The Tennessee Aquarium, Children’s Discovery Museum, and High Point Climbing and Fitness are always good options. Of course, since I’m the grandmother, sometimes I just let them play in the rain if it’s safe. Playing in puddles can be so much fun, and it’s hard to say ‘no’ to those grandchildren!”
Joanne Beckman
“For an outing on a rainy day, my grandson really enjoys the Tennessee Aquarium. The otters are very entertaining – they make him laugh out loud with their antics! He gets right next to the large tanks and looks at the fish swimming. He loves to spot turtles and alligators in the swamp area. Other favorites are the butterfly garden, the Stingray Bay tank where he can touch the stingrays, and the Undersea Cavern where he can walk under the tank and look up at the fish. Of course, rainy days are great days to stay in and read books. If it’s not storming or raining too hard, he loves to put on his rain jacket and boots and play in the puddles!”
