Older Adults
Those with lived experience can be a Pueblo Everyday Hero! The children of today need the wisdom of your experience. Take the time to talk, your stories can inspire them. Remember, everyone is someone's grandchild.
Older adults have a great amount of experiences that we can teach Pueblo’s youth which can carry valuable information to learn from. Below are some examples of what older adults can do to help youth succeed academically and build positive behaviors.
Academic Performance
Keeping in Touch with School Activities
Ask them what they are learning in school, for example, what books are they reading, and maybe you can ask them to read a chapter or few to you.
Motivate Them to Follow Future Goals and Plans
Let them know how valuable it is to follow your dreams and demonstrate how to be confident in pursuing those goals.
Participate in Their Schools
Even if you live far, plan a trip to visit their school function, meet the teachers and ask questions about volunteering or be a guest speaker of a career you once did.
Positive Youth Behavior
Life Lessons
Older adults can talk about their decisions that weren't the best and can guide youth to make better, healthier choices.
Talk About Hobbies
This can be a great idea as hobbies can boost their mood and lower stress. Hobbies also make children stay out of trouble because when there is nothing to do, that is when risky behavior starts. Here are some ideas for you to introduce them to some hobbies.
Gardening: teach youth how to plant a garden to boost eating fruits and vegetables.
Fishing: take your grandchildren fishing; tell them to put away all the electronic devices and take in the scenery and fresh air.
Yoga: this can help with their mental health and can give them some tips on when they are feeling stressed and some breathing exercises to help.