Grandparents hold a special place in family dynamics—they’re a blend of wisdom, humor, and unconditional love. Yet, as generations evolve, it’s not uncommon for grandparents to feel disconnected from their grandkids. Beneath their warm smiles and quiet encouragement, many grandparents have unspoken wishes about how they’d love to spend time with their grandchildren. Here are eight meaningful activities grandparents secretly hope their grandkids would do with them.
1. Listen to Their Stories
Grandparents are living time capsules, carrying decades of memories, lessons, and adventures. They dream of sharing stories about their childhoods, struggles, triumphs, and life-changing moments. Whether it’s tales from a time before technology or funny anecdotes about their own parents, these stories create a bridge between generations. By listening, you not only gain a deeper understanding of your roots but also show them that their experiences still matter.
2. Ask Them for Advice
Life throws challenges at all of us, and grandparents—having seen and experienced so much—yearn to pass on their hard-earned wisdom. Whether it’s advice on relationships, career decisions, or navigating life’s uncertainties, they want to help you find your way. Asking for their guidance not only makes them feel valued but also strengthens the bond between you.
3. Spend Time Outdoors Together
Many grandparents have fond memories of a time when life was slower, and outdoor adventures were a daily routine. They’d love to share that simplicity with their grandkids—whether it’s gardening, fishing, birdwatching, or simply taking a walk together. These activities provide moments of connection and offer a chance to create shared memories in nature.
4. Cook or Bake Family Recipes
Grandparents often hold the keys to family culinary traditions, and nothing makes them happier than passing on these secrets to the next generation. Learning to cook or bake with them is more than just making food—it’s about preserving family heritage. Whether it’s a beloved pie recipe or a treasured holiday dish, these moments in the kitchen are filled with laughter, storytelling, and connection.
5. Teach Them About Technology
While grandparents have decades of wisdom, the digital age is still a mystery for many. They wish their grandkids would spend time teaching them how to use smartphones, tablets, or social media platforms. Sharing your knowledge with them isn’t just practical—it also creates a unique role reversal where you become the teacher, fostering mutual respect and learning.
6. Share Your World with Them
Grandparents long to know more about the world their grandkids inhabit. Whether it’s introducing them to your favorite music, explaining trending internet culture, or showing them a skill or hobby you love, sharing your interests helps them feel more connected to you. It’s a way of saying, “I want you to know me better.”
7. Take Time to Simply Be Together
Often, what grandparents want most is your presence. Whether it’s sitting on the porch, watching TV, or enjoying a cup of tea together, the simple act of spending time without distractions means the world to them. These quiet, unhurried moments allow for authentic connection, reminding them—and you—that love isn’t always about grand gestures.
8. Capture Memories While You Can
Many grandparents wish their grandkids would take the time to capture memories together. Whether it’s snapping photos, recording family stories, or creating a scrapbook, these keepsakes become treasures that both generations can cherish. Taking the initiative to preserve these moments shows how much you value your time with them, creating a legacy for years to come.
Moments That Matter
Grandparents are a source of wisdom, love, and tradition, but their greatest desire is to feel valued by their grandchildren. By engaging in these activities, you not only deepen your connection with them but also honor the irreplaceable role they play in your life. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to show your appreciation—start making memories today that both of you will treasure forever.
Which of these activities resonates most with you? Are there any special ways you’ve connected with your grandparents that others should try? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.
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