Grandparents are a special group. After working hard to raise their own children (thanks, Mom and Dad!), now they get to kick back and enjoy precious time with your little ones.
Even though times have changed, grandparents remain wonderful guides when it comes to parenting. They can offer you a much-needed break after a long week, and their homes are always filled with love, laughter, and treats (even if the rules are a bit more flexible 😉).
Grandparents’ Day is the perfect time to show appreciation and spend quality time together. Instead of just gifting, focus on fun activities that bring everyone closer. So, check out our list of activities for this holiday and help your kids and their grandparents create new and unforgettable memories!
1. Frame a Special Memory
When you have kids, the number of pictures you take goes through the roof! Why not turn those memories into a craft project that kids and grandparents can do together?
Photo frames are always a hit, and the Decorate-Your-Own Sparkly Photo Frame lets your kids add their own creative touch. It’s also a fun way for grandparents to join in the crafting! They can work on the craft together, and when it’s finished, it becomes a special keepsake that Grandma and Grandpa can proudly display.
There’s nothing more meaningful than creating something unique as a team. Your kids will have fun, and grandparents will receive a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift they helped make!
2. Get Crafty with Something New
If Grandma and Grandpa are running out of wall space, create something different with a unique craft kit! The kids can work together with their grandparents or make these special surprises with you.
Bring some science home with these Craft Your Own Lip Balm kits. You can make this gift extra special by pairing Grandma’s new lip balm with a cute purse—add a gift card and other trinkets, and you have the perfect gift!
If Grandma and Grandpa are into accessories, make friendship bracelets with Style Your Own CharmWow—a DIY charm jewelry set for kids, complete with trendy charms and beads. Who needs Pandora when you have crafty kiddos? And the best part, everyone can join in the fun!
3. Relax with an At-Home Spa Day
Does Grandma love a trip to the nail salon? Recreate the experience at home for her and your kiddos! And don’t forget Grandpa! Even if he’s never been a fan of rainbow nails, he may love getting pampered by the kids.
Break out the foot bath and your most colorful nail polishes. Find some recipes for DIY face masks (these edible masks are great for younger kids) and cut up some cucumbers. It’s time to help Grandma relax!
If the kids want to add some extra glam, check out our Mermaid Makeup Kit and Hair Chalk and Glitter Set. If Grandma feels adventurous, she could leave spa day with brand new purple highlights, glitter tattoos, and ruby red lips! No worries—everything washes out with soap or shampoo and water.
4. Create Unique Art [Free Printables]
Give Grandma and Grandpa something special to hang on their wall! Gather art supplies and let your kids create something new for their grandparents. You can use construction paper, crayons, markers, stamps, and Purple Ladybug Stickers—let them go wild! Add a colorful card with our Scratchy Scratch Paper, and you’ve got a gift that’s ready to be loved!
For long-distance grandparents, encourage your kids to make a unique, handwritten card just for them. Your kiddos can share their favorite toys, shows, or school stories and decorate the notes with colors, stickers, and doodles. You can snap a pic to send digitally or mail it over for an extra special surprise. Grandparents will love receiving those handwritten letters in the mail—it’s a heartfelt way to stay connected, even from afar.
Looking for something hassle-free but just as heartfelt? We’ve got FREE Grandparents’ Day printables that kids and grandparents can work on together!
Click to download your FREE printables!
5. Plan a Special Day Out
Load up the kids and head out for a special day with their grandparents. Not sure where to go? Here are a few places to explore:
- Local zoo or aquarium
- Botanical garden
- Storytime at the library
- Science or history museum
- Outdoor concert
- Beach day trip
- Kid’s theater production
If long walks at the zoo aren’t the best choice for your parents, try something more stationary, like story time or a show. Planning for everyone’s needs can be a little daunting, but with some forethought, you can all have a great time. Add in a stop at a favorite restaurant or ice cream shop, and you’ll have a fun-filled day for everyone!
6. Bake Up with a Sweet Surprise
Little kids love to help out in the kitchen, especially if you’re baking something sweet. Enlist your child’s help in picking out a delicious treat to make for their grandparents. Then get to baking!
Is Grandma a master baker? Invite her over to take part in a baking day. Choose simple recipes, like brownies or cookies (this recipe is super simple and delicious), to keep the kids involved. Or melt some chocolate and go nuts decorating some chocolate-dipped peanut butter crackers. You can even keep it super simple with chocolate-covered pretzels. But no matter what you’re making, have the sprinkles and colorful candies ready!
Share a treat, then pack some for Grandma and Grandpa to enjoy at home. Not only have you created delicious treats, but you’re making new traditions and memories together. And that is something truly sweet. 💜
Grandparents' Day is Fun for Everyone!
Involving the kids is the best way to create something magical for your parents. And it strengthens the bond between grandparents and grandkids.
Create new traditions with a baking day, spa time, or annual spring outing to the gardens. Then watch your kids’ relationships with your parents grow. It’s truly something special to watch your parents in this role. Help them get the most out of it with these fun memory-making gifts.
What’s your favorite way to spend time with your kids and their grandparents? Let us know in the comments!
