It's important for children to spend time with their grandparents. According to a study by Oxford University and the Institute of Education, London, there are significant benefits to grandparent/grandchild bonding. Grandparents offer wisdom and care, and can contribute to stability and an increased well-being throughout all stages of a child's development. The research also shows that the best results happen when a grandparent is more active, so here are three exciting suggestions to take the grandkids to on their next visit. 

Go Karts Go

Twenty minutes into town from Sugar Valley is the action-packed Go Karts Go, Broadmeadow. It features a 700 metre long racecourse consisting of fast-paced straights and corners of varying difficulty, making it the longest commercial Go-kart track in Newcastle. Adults can choose a Rimo Schumacher Senior Kart, which has a four-stroke engine and can speed up to 70 kph, while children can opt for the smaller Junior Kart, which is easier to drive and learn in. Double karts are also on standby when you want a safe, tandem experience with the very young. 

Pulse Climbing

If your grandchildren would prefer to scale heights rather than race tracks, then Newcastle's only indoor rock climbing centre will certainly delight them. You don't have to be a fitness expert as there are numerous walls of varying skill level to scramble up. Or if you'd prefer just to watch then you can help as the belayer, the person who holds the rope. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times, however anyone over that age is free to roam and climb to their heart's content. Entry fees start from as low as $10 with no time limit!

Nobbys Beach

Lastly, a great children's activity that is sure to run their energy down – without running yours too much – is always the beach. Around half an hour from Sugar Valley is Nobbys Beach, one of the safest swimming beaches in Newcastle. There are free barbecue areas and picnic spots, accessible toilets and regular, everyday lifeguard patrols. Walking north along the beach will take you to Nobbys Lighthouse, which offers brilliant views of the city after a short climb, and a hop to the south leads you to the Newcastle Ocean Baths for an even safer, relaxing swim. 

Remember, happy senior living isn't just involving yourself with your friendly retirement community, it's also getting out and getting active with the family, both for your health and theirs.

Ageing - Health