2 Bridging the Generation Gap Overcoming Differences with Children and Grandchildren

 

Recent research shows that the issues on which the generations differ frequently aren't ideological issues. More often they are simply variations in how the different generations live their lives, which makes bridging the generation gap much simpler. Here are some easy ways to get closer to children and grandchildren--and some that may not be so easy!

Bridging the Technology Gap

The greatest difference perceived between the generations is the way that they use technology. In a 2009 survey, when asked whethertechnological advances - cell phones, the Internet, social networking sites and email - have made the world better, the pattern was clear: those aged 18 to 49 were more likely to respond in the affirmative than those aged 50+. Savvy grandparents can use this difference to ask for help in learning the new technology. It's probably best not to try to learn everything that the younger generation knows. The best strategy is to zero in on a few things that you would like to learn to do, such as managing photos online or downloading music, and enlist your children or grandchildren to teach you how to do them. The time together can be enjoyable, and you'll get props for being more open to technology than some of your peers.

Find the equivalents in the text:

Научно-технический прогресс; сайты социальных сетей; ответить утвердительно; понимающий; сосредоточить внимание исключительно на…; привлечь; вызывать уважение; ровесники.

 

Answer the questions:

What technological advances can your grandparents use?

Do you help your grandparents learn to use technological advances?

Do you think that differences in technological skills prevent you from communication with your grandparents?

 

Bridging the Music Gap

Another area in which young and old are reported to differ is their taste in music. Although young people love having their own kind of music, they also often enjoy sharing their musical tastes with others. Ask your children and grandchildren to play some of their favorite music for you and explain why they like it. You may be surprised to find that you like it as well. If you don't wish to hear explicit language, state that up front. You may also find that your children and grandchildren are big fans of your music. Rock is still the favored genre for all groups up to age 65. The Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix are popular among all age groups. So while Coldplay may leave you cold, you may still be able to find some areas of agreement in the oldies category.

I. Find the equivalents in the text:

Музыкальный вкус; разделять музыкальные вкусы; грубая речь; прямо заявить; любимый жанр; оставить равнодушным; старые шлягеры.

II. Answer the questions:

Do you know what music your parents and grandparents are funs of?

Do you share their musical tastes?

Do you agree that the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix are popular among all age groups?  Are you a fun of their music?

Have you ever had about Coldplay?

Do you think that music can be an obstacle between generations?