a guest post written by Cristin Coffey
Grandparent’s Day is a day to come together as a family and appreciate all the things that grandparents do.
Growing up I loved spending time with my grandma, and if there was one thing she loved more than her farm animals it was her grandchildren. I always want to make sure I get my grandma the perfect gift, so for those of you who are searching for some ideas for your grandparents, this is for you!
1: Making a Custom Puzzle Using a Picture of the Both of You
First, this gift is wonderful for two reasons: it is an activity you can do together, and grandparents love having photos with their grandchildren. There are tons of photo websites where you can upload your favorite image, select how many pieces you want the puzzle to be, and have it delivered to you! If you want to have a bonus gift to this, add in a picture frame to hang the photo up once the puzzle is completed.
2: Tickets to a Play or Concert
Your gift does not have to be tickets to a Broadway play. Look for a local theater where you can take your grandparents for a lovely evening and share an experience together. I love going to plays with my grandma and feel like we’re going on a special outing.
While movies are an oldie but goodie, plays have a special charisma to them where you can get dressed up and make a night out of it. Plus, I am sure your grandparents would appreciate a more intimate form of entertainment in this world of screens. You can even throw in dinner, to really tie up the night nicely.
3: Two copies of the Same Book for a Grandparent Book Club
Give your grandparents the gift of reading and the gift of conversation. Pick a book that you’d love to share with your grandparent, and buy two copies: one of them and one for you.
The best part of the gift? The next time they get to see you to discuss the book for your grandparent book club.
4: A Custom Piece of Decor
There are so many things you can customize with a family phrase, photo, or positive message. You can make custom pillows, blankets, or even coffee cups.
Do your grandparents have a beloved pet? Put them on a pillow!
Have so many grandchildren you can’t fit them in a photo? Try a blanket where all the names can fit in a shape of a heart!
The ideas are endless when it comes to customization for your grandparents.
5: Recreate a Special Moment in Their Lives
If your grandparents grew up in the 1950s, roll with the nostalgia and recreate a drive-in movie! Portable projectors are available on Amazon, Walmart, and other convenient locations. Hook it up to a laptop, display the screen on a garage or side of a house, bring around the car and relive some happy moments with your grandparents!
Don’t forget the popcorn! Now kick back and relax.
Grandparents Day is the Sunday after Labor Day
To say “thank you”, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. It is the thought that counts and the quality time is most appreciated. When picking gifts for the older adults in your life, try to think about how it would be useful to them or how it can involve both of you spending time together. Although any day is a great day to be thankful for grandparents, Grandparents Day is a great reason to show just how much you love them.
Cristin Coffey is a student at San Jose State University and a devoted granddaughter. While in college, she also visits isolated seniors in her community through Mon Ami, a companionship service connecting older adults with college students.
