Residents' Grandkids Love Spending Time at Charlestown

Becoming a grandparent starts a new chapter of joy and purpose. For residents of Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., the joys of grandparenting are even more special.

"I have six grandchildren. They love coming here to visit!" says Charlotte Kemper, who moved to Charlestown from Owings Mills, Md., ten years ago. "The oldest will be a college senior, and the youngest are ages five and six. They've got everything they could want here."

With a range of engaging activities and fun amenities on the 110-acre campus, there are plenty of ways for residents to spend time and bond with their grandkids.

A staycation

Charlotte's grandchildren appreciate having so many kid-friendly amenities to choose from, making every visit to Charlestown feel like a vacation.

"The first time they walked into the Cross Creek Clubhouse, they were blown away. They thought I lived in a mansion or something," recalls Charlotte, with a laugh. "They're so excited when they arrive."

"I live on the terrace level, so they have [convenient access to] a safe outdoor space to play. We can walk the nature trail, and they have been fishing down at the lake. We've also had picnics together," she says. "There is also billiards and table tennis. There's always something to do!"

A retirement community might be the last place you would expect to find a swimming pool full of kids. But on any given day from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., you'll find plenty of grandkids--accompanied by their grandparents--having fun in Charlestown's all-season aquatics center.

Whether grandchildren are learning to swim, showing off new skills, or simply enjoying time with grandma or grandpa, the pool has become a favorite gathering spot for many families, offering a fun way to stay active while creating lasting memories.

"They love to swim in the pool," notes Charlotte.

And with multiple dining venues on campus, Charlotte can focus on quality time rather than cooking and cleaning up. "We usually go to the Short Line Café. The kids love everything--especially the chicken wings and ice cream. And because the little ones are under the age of six, they eat for free," she says.

Power of quality time

In addition to having fun, spending time with your grandkids can have physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

Research shows that dopamine and oxytocin, known as the "feel-good hormones," increase when grandparents spend time with their grandchildren. Activities like solving puzzles, playing board games, or tossing a ball back and forth can help reduce blood sugar and blood pressure.

"Welcoming people of all ages is vital for sustaining well-being as well as intergenerational relationships at Charlestown," says Community Resources Manager Mary Evans. "Traditions, life lessons, and values passed down from grandparents to younger generations help children develop a sense of identity and belonging while providing grandparents with a sense of purpose and meaning."

Fun with family

To create even more opportunities for residents to spend time with their grandkids, Charlestown plans family-oriented events throughout the year, including a fall festival, summer solstice, concerts, cookouts, and various holiday events.

This August marked the community's first weekend-long Grand Camp, a multigenerational event designed to bring residents and their grandchildren together for two days of fun, engaging activities that encouraged creativity and teamwork.

"Grand Camp was something new this year, and everyone loved it," says Evans. "It's a great opportunity for Charlestown residents to enjoy quality time with their grandkids and create memories that will last a lifetime."

Given the enthusiastic response from residents and families, Evans and her team are already looking forward to building on the success and planning future Grand Camp programs.

'The best time'

When it's time to head home, Charlotte's grandkids start counting down the days until their next visit to grandma's 'house.'

"They love coming here so much, and I love having them. We always have the best time!" says Charlotte.

"Our 110-acre community offers something for all ages," says Evans. "Sharing stories and simple moments with grandchildren can feel deeply rewarding, creating a bond that enriches both generations."

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Danielle Rexrode