In just a few short days the ringing of the school bell will be heard once more, signaling the beginning of another year. For some kiddos, the first day of school is packed with excitement - getting to see all their friends again, and wearing the new outfit and shoes that mom made them wait for this day to put on.

Many parents have probably already begun sending the kids to bed a little earlier than usual, just to get them in practice. And the night before the big day is spent gathering all of the supplies and packing the new book bag.

Others may not be quite so excited about giving up their leisurely summer days hanging out at the pool or playing games. I fell into the first category.

It has been quite a few years since I have had to get kids ready to go back to school. As I mentioned in a previous column, my youngest just celebrated his 20-year high school reunion! Now, it’s another chapter - grandkids.

On Saturday I will say goodbye to my granddaughter, who is heading to college in Florida. I’m nervous about that, but also very proud and excited for her.

Though I have five grandchildren in school this year, I have found another way to stay connected to the school system. I am a TeamMates mentor. I have two mentees, both entering their sophomore year. I have been with one since sixth grade, and the other since seventh, and I can honestly say mentoring is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Meeting with a young person for the first time, even the first several times, can be a little intimidating. I struggled with wondering what to talk about, and what to do if there is just awkward silence. What if she doesn’t like me? What if I say something weird?

And I won’t lie - at first, it was a little awkward. But before long we were chatting and laughing, and like any friendship it has grown and blossomed as we have spent more time together and gotten to know each other.

It has surprised me a little to discover that, for the most part, kids really do like hanging out with grownups. And they really like when the grownups actually pay attention to them; especially when its a grownup who doesn’t have to. Not a parent. Not a teacher. Just someone willing to be there and listen. The start of school also means TeamMates will be gearing up for another year. I happen to know the program is always needing adult mentors, and there are kids waiting to be matched. I would highly encourage you to consider checking it out if it would at all work in your schedule.

Whether it’s mentoring, or grandparenting, or just daily living, we all have opportunities to pour into the lives of the next generation in some way. The generation gap isn’t nearly as wide as you might think - and the rewards are immeasurable.