She’s a modern Glammy, he’s a zippy Papster. Grandparents these days may have trendy titles, but their they can still be counted on for unwavering love and encouragement.
The designation of National Grandparents Day, on the second Sunday of September (September 8), offers a chance to shower your grands with extra appreciation.
A leisurely phone chat or Skype call is great if you're far. A hug delivered in person works for those in the neighborhood. Kids may also love surprising their grandparents with an original poem, photo collage, or craft. Diamond poems are perfect for young children, who can fill-in-the-blanks of this verse by supplying nouns, verbs, and adjectives that describe their special relationship. You'll find the printable example here.
We checked grandparents.com for other fun ways to celebrate. Here are a few ideas.
CELEBRATE WITH AN INTERVIEW
Kids love stories, and grands love to spin tales about their youth. Record your child’s interview with a grandparent. Have her prepare questions such as “What were your favorite school subjects?” and “What did you learn from your mom and dad?” Type the Q & A and make a booklet to share.
CREATE A COLLAGE
Another winning idea is to make a photo collage. Arrange photos of your child celebrating holidays or traveling with his grandparents. Decoupage the photos, or simply tape pictures together before framing.
MAKE A MEMORABLE APRON
To please a grandparent who enjoys cooking, decorate an apron using iron-on inkjet transfers from a craft store. Choose a cute photo, print the picture on transfer paper, and iron the image on fabric to make a barbeque apron for Grandpa. Or buy ingredients for the heirloom strawberry shortcake recipe and give everyone time together in the kitchen. Videotape the cooking session for a keepsake of your family’s culinary tradition.
West Virginia housewife Marian McQuade — the mother of 15 and grandmother of 43 — is credited with campaigning for a day to honor grandparents. President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation that created National Grandparents Day in 1979.
So be sure to say thanks to those grands in your life and let them know you appreciate their support.