The grandparent-grandchild relationship can be filled with deep love, joy and connection. But these strong bonds dont just happen by accident they require nurturing just like any other relationship.

The majority of Americans 69% say its very important for grandparents and grandkids to have a close relationship, according to a recent YouGov survey . However, nearly a quarter of respondents reported that their grandparents have been not very or not at all influential in their lives.

If your relationship with your grandkids isnt as close as youd like it to be, read on. Below, therapists share some of the most significant things grandparents can do to fortify the bond with their grandkids.

1. Take the initiative.

Dont fall into the trap of sitting back and waiting for your grandchild to come to you. Youre the adult here (or at least the more senior one) which means you have both the opportunity and responsibility to reach out by taking initiative to be part of that grandchilds life, said Dallas marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein . Show them you care by being proactive about building the relationship.

That can look like attending the childs sports game, calling the grandchild when they come home from a trip or discussing shared movie and book interests, Epstein said. Children want to feel like the adults in their life want to spend time with them. Grandparents have the powerful opportunity to show up as an adult that truly delights in their grandchilds life.

2. Show curiosity about their interests.

Taking time to get to know who your grandchild really is is one of the most impactful things you can do as their grandparent. It will help them feel heard, valued, and understood, creating a deep emotional connection between you, said clinical geropsychologist Regina Koepp, founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging .

One way to start? Practice active listening. This means giving your grandchild your full attention, making eye contact and genuinely responding to what theyre saying, Koepp said.

Its true that your grandkids are growing up in a world thats far different from the one you were raised in or even raised your children in, Epstein said. Approach these differences with a sense of curiosity and try to withhold judgment.

The childrens interests may seem strange, the trends may feel unfamiliar and the language hard to follow, she said. Grandparents will build closeness with their grandchildren by showing up with curiosity rather than judgment.

That doesnt mean you need to be well-versed in every last detail of their favorite video game or able to rattle off the starting lineup of their favorite sports team. But being open-minded about their hobbies goes a long way.

Children will pick up on being judged and create distance, Epstein said. Those grandparents who can show some curiosity and engage their grandchild on their own terms will find that grandchild much more excited to spend time together.