National Grandparents Day is more than just a sweet gesture it’s a celebration of love, storytelling, and the special bond between generations.
For teachers, parents, and even little ones, finding fun and meaningful grand parents day activities is a chance to bring families closer while making grandparents feel like the superheroes they are (with or without the cape).
From crafts to games, songs to snacks, this post is packed with creative ideas that will help kids show their love and appreciation in adorable, unforgettable ways.
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Celebrate With Creative Grand Parents Day Activities
Memory Book Making
One of the most heartwarming grand parents day activities is making a memory book. Start with blank pages or a printable template and let kids write down or draw their favorite memories with their grandparents.
Pages can include “What I love most about my grandma/grandpa,” “The funniest thing they ever said,” or even “Their favorite food is…” Add photos, stickers, and drawings for extra flair. Parents or teachers can help by binding the pages with yarn or ribbon.
This is more than just a craft it’s a keepsake that grandparents will treasure for years. Plus, it encourages reflection, literacy, and emotional connection all in one heartfelt project.
Handprint Hug Card
This simple craft packs a huge emotional punch. Trace a child’s hands on construction paper, cut them out, and connect them with a long strip of paper as “arms.” Write a message in the middle like “This is a hug for you!” or “I love you THIS much!” It’s an easy, affordable grand parents day activity for kids that makes every grandparent smile.
Add personal touches with decorations, glitter (if you dare), or even a small poem written by the child. This works great in classrooms too kids can take the cards home or deliver them during a special school celebration.
Easy and Adorable Grandparents Day Crafts
DIY “Why I Love You” Jar
Grab an empty mason jar or small container and fill it with rolled-up notes from the child. Each note can say something simple like “You make the best cookies” or “I love how you read to me.” Decorate the jar with stickers, ribbon, and a tag that says “Open me when you need a smile!” It’s one of those ideas grandparents day crafts that’s easy for kids of all ages. You can also theme it by having one note for each letter of the alphabet or every color of the rainbow.
This thoughtful gift is something grandparents will return to again and again.
Thumbprint Family Tree
Few things say “you’re loved” like a family tree full of tiny thumbprints. Use a printable tree or draw a large trunk and branches on paper. Let each child press their finger into colored ink pads and stamp it as a “leaf” for each family member.
Add names next to each thumbprint, and title the artwork “Our Family Tree.” It’s a fun way to teach kids about their roots while creating a vibrant, meaningful craft. This activity doubles as both art and a conversation starter perfect for school settings or at-home bonding.
Fun and Engaging Games to Play With Grandparents
Grandparent Guess Who
This is a laugh-out-loud game that works great in classrooms or big family gatherings. Ask each child to write down a few fun facts about their grandparent (“She knits scarves,” “He plays the harmonica,” etc.) and put them into a bowl.
Read the facts out loud and let the group guess which grandparent it describes. It’s an interactive way to spark storytelling and connection. Plus, grandparents will love hearing how their quirks and talents are remembered.
Classic Game Day
Bring on the board games, card decks, and puzzles! Set up stations with checkers, dominoes, Uno, Go Fish, and more. These are classic games to play with grandparents that don’t need a screen or batteries. Watching kids and grandparents giggle through a game of Candy Land or whisper strategies in Connect 4 is the stuff of memories.
If the event is happening in a classroom, rotate groups through each game station. It’s simple to organize and everyone walks away smiling.
“Grandparent Says”
A twist on “Simon Says,” this classroom game puts the grandparents in charge. Let them take turns giving silly or sweet instructions like “Grandparent says wiggle your ears!” or “Grandparent says tell me your favorite color.” Kids stay alert, follow along, and laugh with every move.
It’s silly, playful, and perfect for a quick movement break that doubles as bonding time.
Grand Parents Day Activities That Involve Storytelling
Story Swap Circle
Set up a comfy storytime corner with floor cushions, blankets, and a rocking chair. Grandparents take turns reading favorite books or sharing personal stories from their own childhood. Then, kids can tell a story back real or made-up! This mutual exchange is one of the most heartfelt activities for grand parents day because it encourages listening and sharing across generations.
Teachers can even help document some of the stories for a class book to send home as a gift.
Record a “Thank You” Video
Let each child record a short video message for their grandparents. They can say why they’re thankful, share a fun memory, or sing a song. Put all the clips together into a “Grandparents Day Movie” and share it digitally with families.
For in-person events, project the video during a classroom party. It’s a beautiful way to include grandparents who live far away or can’t attend. Plus, kids feel like movie stars showing off their love.
Thoughtful Gifts for Grandparents That Kids Can Make
Personalized Photo Frame
Use popsicle sticks, foam sheets, or recycled cardboard to make custom photo frames. Kids can decorate them with paint, buttons, or stickers. Add a photo of the child, or a drawing if a photo isn’t available. Simple, meaningful, and proudly displayed on every grandparent’s shelf.
Recipe Card Keepsake
Ask each child to share their favorite food their grandparent makes. Teachers can help write out the “recipe” on a card with illustrations.
For example: “Grandma’s Banana Pancakes Step 1: Add a lot of love.” Even if it’s not an exact recipe, the sentiment is sweet and funny. It’s one of those grandparents day ideas that blends creativity and love with just the right touch of humor.
Hosting a Grandparents Day Classroom Celebration
Set Up a “Grand Gallery”
Transform the classroom into an art gallery full of student work. Display their crafts, drawings, or even funny portraits of their grandparents.
Let the kids guide their special guests around the room, explaining their masterpieces. Include signs with phrases like “Art by Ava for her Grandpa Joe.” It builds confidence and pride, and grandparents will adore seeing what their grandchild created.
Tea & Cookies Party
It’s simple but charming. Set up a small table with cookies, juice, and tea. Play soft music and invite children to sit with their grandparents for a little “tea time.”
It’s a calm setting for meaningful conversation, and a welcome break from louder activities. Don’t forget to take pictures for a cute thank-you card afterward!
More related post about Activities:
Grand Parents Day Activities That Build Lifelong Bonds
Planning grand parents day activities isn’t just about filling time with crafts and games. It’s about creating shared joy, connection, and lasting memories between generations.
Whether you’re a teacher organizing a classroom party, a parent helping your child celebrate at home, or even a son or daughter looking for simple ways to show appreciation, the ideas above will make this holiday feel extra special.
From silly games and heartfelt crafts to storytelling and snack time, every little gesture helps children understand the value of family. And for grandparents, there’s nothing better than hearing “I made this for you” from a beaming grandchild. So gather your construction paper, your hugs, and your love it’s time to celebrate.
