On September 8th celebrate the unique, loving relationship between grandchildren and grandparents on National Grandparents Day!
Whether they’re miles away or just around the corner, grandparents are there for us with love and affection, advice and guidance, and stories we want to hear over and over again. The bond they share with us is special and powerful. They connect us to our family and heritage while encouraging us to cherish the present. This National Grandparents Day, pick up the phone, write a letter, or spend quality time with your grandparents! Do a favorite activity together, cook a family recipe, or ask them to tell a story about their life you’ve never heard before. And if you aren’t able to connect with your grandparents, consider bringing your family to volunteer with seniors or lend a helping hand to an elderly neighbor.
To kick start your quality time with grandma and grandpa check out the articles, activities and book suggestions below!
Encourage Family Time, Any Time
Nurturing “Grand” Relationships
Grades PreK-3
The relationship between grandchild and grandparent can be a special, distinct, and incredibly powerful connection in a child’s life. Consider these helpful strategies for developing lifelong bonds between generations.
How “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” Can Help Parents and Grandparents
Grades PreK-3
“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” is purposefully and intentionally designed to help not just children but all of the caring adults in a child’s life. Here are three ways caregivers can use “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” to support kids.
Let’s Share a Story: “Our Favorite Day” | Let’s Learn
Grades K-2
In this video from Let’s Learn, Katherine Rodriguez-Agüero reads Our Favorite Day by Joowon Oh. This story follows a favorite day between a granddaughter and her grandfather.
Activities, Crafts & More
Pinkamazing Family Game
Grades PreK-2
It’s family game time! Your family can take turns drawing, acting, singing and dancing in this game with fun and unique prompts from Pinkalicious. As many as six players can join in on the fun!
Discover Family History With a Heritage Scavenger Hunt
Grades PreK-3
Introduce your children to their heritage by going on a scavenger hunt for objects around the house. Find 3 to 5 items that represent different parts of your heritage and have a discussion. Children will use DIY cardboard cameras to take a picture of the items they find.
Great Picture Books About Grandparents
Grades PreK-3
Grandparents can play a big role in children’s lives. They can share advice, and adventures, and pass on family traditions, too! Grandparents (and grandparent-like figures) can provide comfort and support, appreciating their grandchildren for who they are. In these read-aloud stories, grandparents and grandchildren take delight in quality time and the loving relationships they’re building with each other.
Creating Your Own Family Album
Grades K-3
Celebrate ways your family is special by making a family album together!
How to Connect With Long-Distance Loved Ones
Grades PreK-5
As much as it’s nice for families to live close by, that’s not always possible. With creativity and commitment, there are lots of ways to help your kids connect with far away loved ones. Here are 10 ideas to try!
For more activities, crafts, and games visit PBS KIDS and PBS KIDS for Parents!