How can I budget specifically for time with my grandkids?

Create a small monthly “joy-spending” line for experiences—day trips, camps, gas money, and treats—so memories don’t get squeezed out by regular bills.

How do I keep my money working in retirement?

Use a retirement-ready mix that supports a steady “paycheque” (RRIF/pension income) plus growth assets for the longer term. Automate deposits so spending stays consistent.

What protection should I have against unexpected costs?

Maintain a cash buffer and appropriate coverage for health and home expenses. That way, a surprise bill doesn’t derail your plans with the grandkids.

Do TFSA withdrawals affect my tax bracket or OAS?

No. TFSA withdrawals are tax-free and don’t count as income for OAS. They’re useful for funding family activities without triggering clawbacks.

When should I start CPP and OAS if I want flexibility for family time?

Delaying can raise guaranteed income later and reduce taxable withdrawals early. The right start date depends on longevity, other income sources, and cash-flow needs.

Retirement Lifestyle Planning

Episode 47: How to Spend More Time With Your Grandkids Without Worrying About Money

Published December 8, 2025

Grandkids grow up fast—money worries shouldn’t slow you down. In this Money Monday, Darren Devine, CFP, CLU, shares a simple framework to spend more time with the grandkids: budget for experiences, keep your money working in retirement and protect against the unexpected—so saying “yes” feels easy and guilt-free.

Key takeaway: Align your cash flow with what matters most—time with the grandkids—then automate it. A lifestyle-first retirement plan turns “Can we afford it?” into “Let’s go!”

Talk to us today

Darren Devine, CFP®, CLU®

Financial Planner, Sun Life
President of Devine and Associates Financial Services Inc.

If you’re a grandparent, you know there’s nothing better than time with your grandkids. But too often, money worries get in the way —whether it’s rising costs, unexpected expenses or just not knowing if you’ll have enough to last.

Darren here, Financial Planner with Sun Life and President of Devine and Associates. I have been working with families like yours for over 20 years and these are the 3 key items we plan for:

1. Budget for Experiences, Not Just Expenses

It’s easy to focus on bills, but what about building in a budget for experiences — like family trips, summer camps or simply gas money for more visits? Planning for these kinds of events helps make sure those moments aren’t squeezed out by day-to-day costs.

2. Put Money to Work in Retirement

Your savings don’t have to sit idle. With the right mix of investments, your money can keep working, giving you more freedom to say yes to ice cream outings or a weekend getaway.

3. Protect Against the Unexpected

A medical expense or home repair can throw plans off track. Having the right protection in place means you can focus on family, not finances. If your goal is more time with your grandkids and less worry about money, a retirement plan built around your lifestyle can help.

Thanks for tuning into Money Monday. Don’t forget to like and comment for more episodes filled with tips to help make your financial journey a breeze. Until next time, I'm Darren Devine, and you can always talk to us today at DevineAndAssociates.ca

Talk to us today

Episode 47: How to Spend More Time With Your Grandkids Without Worrying About Money

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Darren Devine, CFP®, CLU®

Financial Planner, Sun Life President of Devine and Associates Financial Services Inc.

1. Budget for Experiences, Not Just Expenses

2. Put Money to Work in Retirement

3. Protect Against the Unexpected

Financial Planner, Sun Life
President of Devine and Associates Financial Services Inc.