Grandparents Day (26 October) is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the irreplaceable role grandparents play in children’s lives, not only as storytellers and caregivers but also as play partners who make childhood moments unforgettable.
Dr. Maral Amani, Pediatric Physical Therapist and Child Development Expert at Lovevery, compiled actionable, research-based strategies to foster connection from the newborn stage to school age. These tips not only strengthen bonds but also create enduring memories.
Record Story Time
Reading stories aloud is timeless. Record yourself reading a story and send the video to your grandchild’s parents. Position the camera to face you, hold the book up for them to see, and read slowly while pointing to the images. Pause occasionally to allow your grandchild to respond. It’s even better if they have a copy of the book at home to enjoy alongside your reading.
Send Thoughtful Surprises
Finding the perfect gift for your grandchildren can be tough, but many grandparents enjoy gifting the Lovevery Play Kit subscription. This service delivers developmentally appropriate toys and books automatically every 2 or 3 months, providing a hands-off opportunity for grandparents to regularly provide delightful surprises for little ones. Play Kits are available individually with no subscription required for one-off gifts.
Create a Personal Photo Album
During your in-person visits, take photos of your adventures together and print them out. Compile these pictures into a small photo album and give it to your grandchild. They can flip through this album to “read” the story of your special memories together. Babies, in particular, love looking at images of faces, helping them become familiar with your loving expressions even when you’re apart.
Make Video Calls Meaningful
Video chats are a powerful way to stay connected. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasises that interactive video calls don’t count as “screen time” since they mimic face-to-face conversations. Regular calls with fun activities like singing or storytelling can bridge the gap between visits.
Bond Through Shared Hobbies
Instead of asking the same few questions, consider participating in a hobby together while apart. Whether it’s planting flowers, painting, or cooking the same recipe, participating in parallel activities fosters connection. Choose a hobby based on your grandchild’s interests, ensuring it’s developmentally appropriate. Be open to changing the selected hobby if they wish to try something new. Remember, the focus is on bonding, not just the hobby itself.
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