Senior Living Advice: Making Memories with your Grandkids
By BETH DOW, Home Helpers Home Care
I absolutely love spring!
There’s just something magical about feeling the warm sunshine again, smelling the fresh blooms, and breathing in that crisp, clean air. The days are longer, my screened-in porch is finally back in use, and best of all – I get to spend more time outside with my grandboys!
I have four grandsons — two close by and two in Baton Rouge — and my husband and I are always looking for fun ways to make memories with them. Whether it’s a big adventure or just a small, silly moment, these are the times we treasure the most.
If you’re looking for fun, simple ways to connect with your grandkids this spring, here are a few ideas to get you started:
Plant a Garden Together
Kids love getting their hands dirty, so why not put that energy to good use? Whether you plant colorful flowers, fresh veggies, or a little herb garden in pots, it’s a great way to teach patience and responsibility — plus, it’s just plain fun to watch something grow together!
Go on a Nature Walk (or Scavenger Hunt!)
Spring is a season of discovery, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors. Turn a simple walk into an adventure by creating a scavenger hunt: Look for a red flower, a butterfly, a bird’s nest, or a cool-shaped rock. Older kids might enjoy snapping photos of their finds or sketching them in a nature journal.
Fly a Kite
There’s nothing like the pure joy of watching a kite dance in the breeze! Find an open field, a park, or even a spacious backyard, and let your grandkids experience the thrill of getting their kite up in the sky. It’s simple, timeless fun and a great way to sneak in a little exercise, too!
Have a Picnic — Anywhere!
Pack a basket with sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a few special treats, then head outside for a picnic. You don’t have to go far — even spreading out a blanket in your own backyard can turn an ordinary meal into something fun and memorable. Add a storybook or a quick round of “I Spy” to keep the smiles going.
Get Crafty with Springtime Creations
Spring is full of inspiration for crafts! Decorate flower pots, make homemade bird feeders, or press flowers to create bookmarks and greeting cards. Younger kids might love finger-painting butterflies, while older grandkids can try more detailed art projects.
No matter what you do, the most important thing is simply spending time together. Grandparents have a special way of making ordinary moments feel extraordinary, and spring is the perfect season to soak up those little joys.
So, step outside, enjoy the sunshine, and start making memories your grandkids will never forget!
Beth Dow is a Dementia and Alzheimer’s Educator, CAEd and Geriatric Care Manager. She is also the owner of Home Helpers of GA & AL in Newnan. Readers can contact her by email at [email protected].
