Today’s grandparents are more active than ever and can play the role of babysitter, weekend guests, and surprising playmates. So, if you’re looking for fun things to do with your grandchildren on their next visit or the next time you go babysitting, here are some fun ideas for outings and activities to enjoy with your grandchildren the next time you’re together.
NATURE WALK
Take the children to a nearby park to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature! Throughout your little hike, don’t hesitate to pick flowers with them or collect leaves or any other treasure that nature may offer you to create an unforgettable memory.
Walking is great exercise and a great way to get some fresh air. If the grandparent or small child has a dog, it encourages you to go out for a walk even more. The most important thing grandparents and grandchildren can do together is to talk and communicate. It’s easier to do this by doing an activity together.
READ YOUR FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK TOGETHER
Put away all screens and take out one of your childhood classics to read a little before bedtime. Take any children’s literary classic, with a whimsical universe and endearing characters.
BRING OUT OLD FAMILY PHOTOS AND HOME VIDEOS
Set up the projector to browse through old slides or curl up on the couch for a home movie marathon. It’s a fun way for your grandchildren to catch a glimpse of their own parents when they were little.
PLAN A SPECIAL OUTING
When there are several grandchildren, it is difficult to spend enough time with each of them. But if you can arrange an afternoon out with everyone for a special outing, it’s a moment you’ll cherish forever. Choose a zoo or aquarium preferably or spend the afternoon in the neighbourhood park.
Visiting the zoo is another ideal outdoor activity that grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy together. The zoo is always a fun place for children. They have the chance to see animals they’ve never seen before and zoos always have fun activities that adults and children can participate in. A day at the zoo is an activity that children rarely forget. No matter how you choose to spend your time together, your grandchildren will love it.
DECORATE T-SHIRTS
This may not seem like the most obvious activity, but it is fun and will certainly keep younger grandchildren busy if the weather is bad and you can’t venture outside. Decorating t-shirts is always a fun craft idea for kids. Go to your local craft store to pick out your t-shirts and all the items you’ll need to decorate.
PLAY WITH COCO TOGETHER
Playing Coco with your grandchildren will allow you to share good times! You will be able to answer together to questions of adapted general culture, learn about the wildlife, … A pleasant way to pass on your knowledge, while having fun. Laughter guaranteed.
CREATE A GARDEN TOGETHER
Gardening can be a delightful and educational activity for grandparents and grandchildren. It teaches children about nature, responsibility, and patience as they watch their plants grow. Here are some steps to create a garden together:
- Choose a suitable location in your yard or balcony.
- Pick easy-to-grow plants or flowers, like sunflowers or herbs.
- Gather gardening tools and materials such as soil, pots, and seeds.
- Plan the layout of your garden together, allowing the children to express their creativity.
- Water and care for the plants regularly, making it a routine activity.
EXPERIMENT WITH COOKING OR BAKING
Cooking or baking together can be a fun and rewarding experience. It not only teaches valuable life skills but also allows for quality bonding time. Here are some ideas for culinary adventures:
- Choose a simple recipe that your grandchildren can help with, such as cookies or homemade pizzas.
- Let them measure ingredients and mix them, fostering their involvement in the cooking process.
- Discuss the origins of the ingredients and the importance of healthy eating.
- Enjoy the finished product together, possibly hosting a mini family tasting event.
ENGAGE IN ART AND CRAFTS
Art and crafts can unleash creativity and provide a wonderful outlet for self-expression. Here are some engaging craft ideas to try:
- Create greeting cards for family members or friends using colored paper and decorations.
- Make seasonal decorations, such as ornaments for holidays or flower arrangements for spring.
- Try painting on canvases or rocks, allowing each child to express their unique artistic style.
- Host an art show at the end of your crafting session to showcase everyone’s creations.
EXPLORING LOCAL CULTURE AND HISTORY
Visiting local museums, historical sites, or cultural events can be an enriching experience. Here are some activities to consider:
- Plan a visit to a local museum or historical site, discussing what you expect to learn.
- Participate in community events or festivals that celebrate local culture and traditions.
- Engage in storytelling sessions, sharing family history or local legends.
- Encourage your grandchildren to ask questions and explore their interests in history and culture.