1) Pray for each one by name each day.
You can do this. We have 12 counting the one due in 6 months and I rarely miss a day.

2) Sit around a table and talk to them during and after a meal.
Plenty of people pay good money for entertainment far less rewarding than this. You’ll hear some quotes you will never forget. And your shared laughter will be priceless.

3) Look for “teachable moments”.
Never just say, “no”. Always explain why. Or, use an inappropriate commercial on TV to teach them why you disagree and what is a better option.

4) As soon as they enter your home or you enter theirs for a visit, act like a pet dog acts when his beloved owner comes home from work.
I am not a naturally demonstrative person so I have to work on this one. But, oh my, it’s so easy to act this way with grandkids!

5) Always give firm, wrap around hugs.
Let them know you will stop at nothing to protect and care for them.

6) Communicate your expectations for their behavior while in your home.
At “Cousins Camp” every Summer, we post a list of rules and we talk about them at the end of each day. Kids need parameters to feel secure and appreciated.

7) Teach them something fun, like how to catch fish.
Whatever fun activity you enjoy most, they will learn to enjoy it, too. As long as they get to learn by doing.

8) Talk about God in casual conversations.
Waiting for that “perfect moment” may never come. The key is to be honest and sincere when talking about your own experience with God.

9) When they need a word of correction, deliver it in a way that conveys your unconditional love for them.
Your method of accomplishing this one may look different to mine. Just intentionally remember that your love for them is unconditional.

10) Always, always, always take great care to never do or say anything hypocritical in their presence.
Kids can discern hypocrisy quicker than a mama bear senses danger for her cubs. And this one is a biggie. Of course, hypocrisy will do some damage to your credibility with them. But there will also be gradual loss of respect for authority. It will result in confusion in their trusting minds as well as lead to cynicism. We already have too much of that in adults these days!