When I was growing up, I played a game with family friends’ kids called “Sign of the Little People.” We’d rearrange items in a room or place an unusual food item on the table, then erupt into laughter as we chanted, “Sign of the Little People!” Silly? Maybe. Fun? Absolutely – especially for us kids.
Now that I’m a grandparent of seven, living almost a country apart from my grandchildren, I miss the days of sharing silly games and spontaneous moments. While technology like FaceTime and Google Duo makes staying connected easier, I’m still a fan of the old-fashioned charm of snail mail and surprise packages.
So, here are five creative ways to bridge the distance and nurture your bond with your grandchildren, no matter their age or personality.
1. Future Author Box (Perfect for Elementary Schoolers)
Send your budding storyteller a “Future Author” kit. Include basic writing books, a journal, colorful pens, a binder with dividers, greeting card fronts (from a Dollar Tree haul), and glue sticks. Encourage them to create their own storybook, complete with illustrations. Ask them to share pictures of their masterpiece; you’ll both treasure the creative exchange.
2. Do for Others Theme (Great for Elementary-Aged Kids)
Teach kindness through creativity. Send simple snack recipes, colorful tissue paper, and bows. Encourage your grandchildren to prepare the snacks, write a short note, and surprise an elderly, single neighbor, or someone at church. This activity combines fun with a heartwarming lesson in generosity.
3. When Sickness Strikes (Works for Any Age)
Comfort your little one with a care package designed for sick days. Include soothing teas like chamomile, soup packets, kid-friendly medicine, a favorite book or DVD, and a cozy blanket or pillow. Send it quickly – before they’re feeling better – to show them you’re thinking of them even from afar.
4. Travel Buff Package
Spark your grandchild’s curiosity about the world. Gather travel brochures, postcards, and posters from different countries (or even states). Add a travel-themed book and postcards from exotic places. You can find some interesting ones on Etsy, eBay, or your local antique store. It’s a perfect way to inspire dreams of adventure and exploration.
5. Storytime with Grandma (Ideal for Toddlers and Young Children)
My son and his wife have a 16-month-old son, and one way I’ve been able to stay connected is through recording Zooms of myself reading books to him. I still have many Little Golden Books from my own childhood; the same ones I read to my son and his sister during their growing up years. Now, three generation later, I’m reading those same books to my grandson. Pretty cool.
Bonus: Restaurant Memories (For Older Kids and Teens)
Turn dining experiences into a fun project. Gift your older grandchildren with a 1” binder with plastic card holders and 3×5 cards. Encourage them to collect cards from restaurants they visit, jotting notes about their meal, the atmosphere, and even the quirks of their server. Who knows? You might nurture the next famous food critic!
These ideas are just the beginning. Tailor each package to your grandchild’s unique interests and personality. The effort you put into these thoughtful gestures will not only keep you connected but also create cherished memories and a sense of closeness that transcends distance.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your first package and watch your relationships flourish. Happy connecting!
For more ideas read 5 Creative Ways to Stay in Touch with Your Grandchildren.
Points of Connection:
How do you connect with your grandchildren? Do you have any special ways to stay in touch? What are some favorite activities with small children? How about teenagers?
