For many of us, visiting our nani's (maternal grandmother's) home remains one of the most cherished childhood memories. The warmth and comfort experienced there are unmatched. While times change, the tradition of families spending summer vacations at nani's home endures.
For parents aiming to raise grateful children, this vacation offers a perfect opportunity to teach kids how to give back to a place that provides unconditional love and lasting memories. Recently, parenting coach Gurpreet Kaur shared a heartfelt reminder for families visiting Nani's home this summer. Through thoughtful suggestions, she explained how children can express love, respect, and appreciation for the home they adore. Here are five lessons to teach children before visiting Nani's home during summer break.
Enter with Gratitude, Not Entitlement
One of the most meaningful reminders was to teach children to approach nani's home with gratitude rather than entitlement. “Someone rearranged their life for this visit, bought things your child loves, planned days around your child's happiness,” she explained. A simple and sincere “Thank you for having us” can set the tone for the entire visit, says Gurpreet.
Sit with Them Without Distractions
The next suggestion is to teach your child to sit with their nani, uncles, and aunts without distractions—phones away, at least once a day. “Not the whole day, just one meal, one conversation, one story. Nani's stories, Mamu's memories. A phone can wait, these moments cannot,” says Gurpreet. These ordinary interactions often become the most cherished memories years later.
Help Without Being Asked
Another important lesson is teaching children to contribute during the visit. Whether helping in the kitchen, carrying bags, setting the table, or looking after younger cousins, the coach reminded families that “the people hosting this visit are doing it entirely out of love.” When children learn to notice effort and help willingly, they develop empathy and respect for relationships.
Respond to Thoughtful Gestures Affectionately
“When nani gives something, when mamu brings something, teach your child to stop completely, look at the person, hold the gift, and say thank you so much. This means so much to me. Specifically, genuinely,” she explained. Thoughtful acknowledgement matters because behind every small gift is time, effort, and affection. Teaching children to respond with sincerity helps them value emotional gestures.
Say a Personal Thank You Before Leaving
Before leaving nani's home, the coach encouraged families to teach children to offer personal goodbyes instead of a quick general farewell. She suggested asking children to thank each family member individually and mention something specific they appreciated. “Nani, your khana is the best thing I ate all year” or “Mamu, thank you so much for taking us out every day.” According to her, these specific and heartfelt thank-yous become “the most beautiful goodbye a child can give.”
Why Expressing Gratitude Matters
The parenting coach's message is simple yet powerful. The essence is that children may remember the fun, but the quiet moments spent there instill values that stay with them for a lifetime. Expressing gratitude to the people who will be part of their fondest memories fosters one of the most meaningful human connections they will experience.
