Easy Things Grandkids and Grandparents Can Do Together

Why a shared activity helps#

An afternoon with Grandpa can slowly turn into everyone in the same room, doing different things. A shared activity gives the kids and their grandparent something to do side by side.

The National Council on Aging notes that fun activities can be good for both grandparents and grandchildren.

You know your kids best, so you're a big help here. NCOA suggests that grandparents ask the children's caregivers what the kids are interested in. Anything built on what your kids already like is a good place to start.

The ideas below are sorted by time and energy. Most are free and can happen at home.

Ten-minute ideas#

Short and simple works well when a visit is brief or the kids are restless.

One idea from NCOA is to take turns naming colors of the rainbow and sharing what you find. It needs no supplies. It can happen at a window, on the porch, or in the yard.

An hour together#

An hour is enough to make something and enjoy it afterward.

NCOA suggests that grandparents and grandkids bake a treat or try a new recipe. Everyone gets a job, and everyone gets a snack at the end. Let the kids pick the recipe if you can.

An afternoon project#

For a longer visit, choose something that can grow over time.

NCOA's list includes starting a collection, such as rocks, stamps or postcards. A collection gives the kids and Grandpa something to hunt for, sort and talk about. It can also carry over to the next visit, so there's something to come back to.

When energy is low#

Some days Grandpa will have less energy than others. That's a good day for something gentle, not no activity at all.

NCOA describes a movement activity where the grandparent and the children decide on the movements together. Because of that, it can be adapted to all skill and ability levels.

The rainbow color game above also asks for very little. It's mostly looking around and taking turns.

Pick one for the next visit#

You don't need a full schedule. Choose one idea and plan it around what your kids are interested in. Set out any supplies before the visit starts. Then let the activity do the work.

If you're also stretched thin, you might find Making room for yourself (without the guilt) helpful.