Grandparents' Day is a nationally recognized holiday which takes place on the Sunday after Labor Day each year as a time "to honor grandparents, to give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children, and to help children become aware of strength, information, and guidance older people can offer." President Jimmy Carter signed the official proclamation for the holiday on August 3, 1978.
Grandparents' Day is a great opportunity to help your kids learn more about your family's stories and history by spending some time with a grandparent.
If you are lucky enough to live near grandparents, plan a special visit together or share a meal. If they live far away, make a note to call, draw a picture, make a craft, send a card, or whatever you would like to show appreciation on their special day. If your grandparents or your child's grandparents have passed away, you can find old family photos to share stories and memories about them. Whatever you do, let's do something special on this day to make a greater connection between grandmothers, grandfathers, and grandchildren!
Here are 5 Local Things to Do:
1. Go to Church: Maybe your church will have a special program for this occasion
2. Get Coffee or Ice Cream: Treat your grandparent to a sweet treat in Elberton
3. Antique Store or Craft Fair: Home Sweet Home has lots of interesting things to see (They are closed on Sunday so be sure to plan ahead)
4. Share a Meal: You can meet up at a favorite restaurant or cook a meal at home
5. Go for a Walk: A nice walk around the block or at the park can lead to a nice conversation and create new memories
Here are 5 Cute Crafts and Gift Ideas for Grandparents:
1. Mail a Hug Hand Print Craft
2. Fun Facts about My Grandparents Printable
3. "I Love You Because..." Paper Flower Craft
4. Photo Bookmarks Laminated DIY Craft
5. Personalized Photo Book from Shutterfly
Fun Questionnaire for Grandparents:
1. What did you do before there were computers and internet?
2. What was your favorite toy or game when you were a kid?
3. Do you remember... this moment in history (Moon Landing, Important Presidents, Y2K, 9/11?)
4. Tell me about your first job, your wedding day, or your first house?
5. What were my parents like as kids? What funny things did they do?
After you've spent some time listening and sharing these special moments with Grandma and Grandpa, you should write notes and take pictures, if possible. Then you can cherish these memories and come back to them next year. As life changes, you will always have your family history. Have fun with learning about and preserving your family memories and celebrating your grandparents!
** We know that some families may no longer have grandparents living or may live too far away to make this a good option. Your kids can still benefit from the wisdom of older generations! You might be able to contact friends and extended family members to show love and support to grandparents outside of your own family. **
