Family Day is a perfect time to celebrate one of life’s most cherished relationships—the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. This connection goes beyond family ties; it’s a source of love, learning, and joy for all generations.
In Canada, over 7.5 million people aged 45 and over are grandparents. Most of us have lasting memories of times we spent with our grandparents during our childhood, but also during part of our adult life. Spending a weekend with grandparents was synonymous with freedom. Listening to them tell anecdotes about their youth or that of our parents was memorable. The shared laughter was a sign of a great bond. And what about sweets and a few pennies given in secret!
Spending time with grandchildren can have incredible benefits for older adults, including:
- Emotional well-being – Sharing stories, laughter, and traditions strengthens family bonds and boosts happiness.
- Cognitive stimulation – Engaging in activities like reading, puzzles, or learning new technology keeps the mind sharp.
- Physical activity – Playing outdoors, walking, or dancing with grandkids adds fun movement to your day.
- Passing down wisdom – Sharing life lessons and family history helps create lasting connections and strengthens cultural heritage.
Here are a few ways to celebrate Family Day or make any day spent with grandparents and grandchildren special:
- Plan fun activities like baking, crafting, or playing a favourite board game.
- Share a story from your childhood and encourage your grandkids to do the same.
- Connect virtually with grandchildren if distance is challenging—video calls, online games, or even a shared journal can keep the bond strong.
No matter how you spend Family Day, take the time to celebrate the love and connection between generations—it’s a gift that benefits everyone!
