There’s nothing like the relationship between a child and their grandparents. Whenever I think of family holidays or large get-togethers, I’m flooded with memories of Grandma and Grandpa’s house, hilarious stories, and delicious food. We love everything that grandparents do for our kids and for all the ways they support them and sow seeds into their lives that only a grandparent could. This year, National Grandparents Day falls on September 13th, but how do we show our appreciation for these priceless family members when they live in a different city or state, hundreds of miles away?
Here are a few ways you can show your love to the grandparents in your family:
- Have a virtual brunch together. Order their favorite breakfast for delivery to their house and do the same for your family. Decide on a time to meet via Zoom or Google Meet, have brunch, and share life updates. Grandparents love seeing how big their grandbabies are getting and are always ready to hear stories about their success.
- Have something personalized with all the grandkids’ names on it. Shutterfly and Things Remembered both have awesome deals on quilts, mugs, even sweatshirts that can be ordered online and then monogrammed or personalized. They’ll ship straight to grandparents and offer gift boxes and packages for several occasions.
- Make a video montage with messages from the kids included. Nothing is sweeter than seeing the faces you love most telling you how much they love and miss you. Make it a surprise delivery with a card and some of their favorite snacks to really show your appreciation.
- Start a family tree. Take some time to ask grandparents about their family history and turn it into a keepsake. Whether it be a journal, a scrapbook, or an online document, creating a family tree can be such a good way for kids to connect with their grandparents on a deeper level and to gain some perspective on what childhood was like during their time.
- Learn one of their favorite recipes. Let’s be honest, most of us have “that one dish” that grandma makes that no one else can seem to top. Grandmas have a thing for cooking or baking, even if it’s just a few passed down family meals. Whatever “that one dish” is for your family, nothing will make her feel more connected to you than by walking you through a step-by-step of the recipe. Thank goodness for video chat making this even easier. What a special thing to be able to pass down to the next generation, too!
It can be challenging to connect with grandparents when you are separated by distance. Being intentional about celebrating family, especially from afar can keep everyone a little closer at heart.
Do your children’s grandparents live far away? How do you celebrate them and show them your appreciation when distance separates you?
