Michigan Medicine reports that 73% of grandparents who see their grandkids weekly or monthly rarely feel isolated.
Spending time with your grandkids keeps you active and strengthens your bond. It also helps your mind stay sharp and brings joy to your life.
However, you might wonder about things to do with grandkids. You don't always understand their interests.
Half the time, you don't even get what they're saying. Their slang, memes, and video games may feel like another world.
But that doesn't mean you can't have fun together. There are plenty of ways to connect. Read on to discover fun and meaningful ways to spend time with your grandkids.
A simple walk outdoors can be a great adventure. Take your grandkids to a:
Point out birds, insects, and trees along the way. If interested, bring a small notebook to draw or write about what they see.
For younger kids, make it a scavenger hunt. Create a list of things to find, like a red leaf, a butterfly, or a squirrel.
Older kids might enjoy taking pictures of nature or collecting small items like leaves and stones. Nature walks are a great way to enjoy intergenerational activities while staying active and engaged.
Cooking with your grandkids is a fun way to teach life skills. Choose a simple recipe, like cookies, pancakes, or homemade pizza. Let them help with mixing, measuring, and decorating.
If you have a family recipe, now is the perfect time to share it. Tell them stories about the recipe's origin and why it's special.
If they're old enough, let them take the lead while you guide them. This activity strengthens senior and grandchild bonding and creates delicious memories you can enjoy together.
A cozy movie night is an easy way to relax and have fun with grandkids. Let them pick a movie, or introduce them to one of your childhood favorites. You can watch classics like:
Make the night extra special by setting up a comfy spot with blankets and pillows. Pop some popcorn, grab some snacks, and enjoy the film together. After the movie, talk about the best parts or act out funny scenes.
Board games and card games are great for all ages. They encourage thinking, teamwork, and laughter.
Choose a classic like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Uno. If your grandkids are younger, try Candy Land or Chutes and Ladders.
For a challenge, pick a puzzle and work on it together. The sense of accomplishment when you finish is worth it.
Playing games keeps your mind sharp and helps create a vibrant life filled with laughter and connection. Games bring families together and offer screen-free fun with grandkids.
A short road trip can turn an ordinary day into an adventure. Pick a fun destination, like a nearby lake, small town, or famous landmark. Make the trip exciting by:
Let your grandkids help plan the route or choose a fun stop. Family outings like these create unforgettable memories and give you quality time together.
Sharing old pictures is a great way to teach your grandkids about family history. Pull out a photo album and tell them about the people and events in the photographs.
Kids love hearing stories, especially funny or surprising ones. Show them photos of you as a child, their parents when they were little, or special family trips.
For a fun twist, let your grandkids guess what's happening in the photos before you tell them. This is a meaningful way to connect and share family traditions.
Many local events offer exciting activities for all ages. Check out farmers' markets, craft fairs, or free concerts in the park. Seasonal events like pumpkin patches in the fall or holiday festivals in winter can be great options, too.
Community events often have activities designed for families, making them perfect for a day out. If you live in an assisted living community, attending an event is a great way to spend time outside, enjoy the fresh air, and connect with loved ones.
These family outings can help strengthen bonds and introduce your grandkids to new experiences. Look up family-friendly events in your area and pick something fun to do together.
Reading is a wonderful way to bond with your grandkids. Choose a book based on their age and interests.
If they're younger, read picture books with exciting voices and expressions. Older kids might enjoy chapter books or even reading to you.
You can also share a favorite book from your childhood. Let them ask questions and talk about the story. This simple activity encourages learning while creating special moments together.
Gardening is a fun and educational activity for grandkids of all ages. Let them plant:
Teach them how to care for their plants and watch them grow. If space is limited, try planting in small pots or window boxes. Let your grandkids decorate plant markers to personalize their garden.
Gardening teaches patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for nature. Plus, they'll love seeing the results of their hard work.
Spending time with your grandkids creates lasting memories and strengthens your bond. Whether you explore nature, play games, or attend community events, there are many fun things to do with grandkids. These moments bring joy, laughter, and connection across generations.
You can enjoy different activities with your grandkids if you move to the right assisted living community. At La Marea Senior Living in Carlsbad, CA, we offer a vibrant lifestyle with personalized care.
Our wellness programs help residents stay active, engaged, and happy. Contact us to learn how we can create a fulfilling life for seniors!