Grandparents serve a unique and important role in a child’s life. Many of the things that grandparents already do can make a positive difference in a child’s mental wellness, no extra training needed! Sharing stories, teaching skills, cheering kids on and spending time together all help children feel loved, capable and connected. These everyday moments can have a lasting impact on how children see themselves and the world around them.
Here are a few simple ways grandparents help children feel confident and supported.
Let Them Help
Being trusted with age-appropriate tasks helps children build confidence and feel capable. Some tasks you can ask them for help with are:
- Mowing the lawn
- Gardening
- Making cookies or a family recipe
- Setting the table
- Fixing a car
Teach Them Something You Enjoy
Learning a new skill from a grandparent is about more than the activity itself. It creates quality one-on-one time with someone who cares about them, gives them a chance to succeed, and builds confidence. Here are some hobbies to share:
- Sewing, crocheting, knitting
- Making model cars
- Playing an instrument
Check in Regularly
Kids feel special and cared for when a grandparent reaches out. It reminds children that someone is thinking about them and is interested in what’s happening in their lives. Besides giving kids a chance to share about their interests, checking in regularly builds trust that they have another caring adult to go to when they need love and support. Here are some ways to check in:
- Call them on the phone or video call.
- Send a letter! Kids love receiving mail.
- Invite them over for a meal or to get ice cream.
Share Family Stories and History
Learning about family history can help kids feel connected to something bigger than themselves. Knowing about your family background helps children understand where they come from and creates a sense of belonging. Building connection and belonging can be especially important as children grow. Here are some ways to help them feel connected:
- Show them pictures of your family growing up.
- Tell them about your family members.
Ask Parents How You Can Help
Supporting parents is another way of supporting children. Ask your grandchild’s parents how you can best help. When parents have help and encouragement, and a little extra breathing room, that strengthens the support system around the child. It also creates meaningful opportunities for you to spend time with your grandchild. You might be able to help with:
- Childcare
- Clothes shopping
- Rides to activities
Grandparents don’t have to be mental health experts to support a child. The conversations you have, the traditions you share, and the time you spend together help children feel loved, supported and capable. Those everyday moments may seem small, but they can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental wellness.
Interested in more resources for connecting? Download our Conversation Starters. Want more simple, expert-backed tools? Visit childrensdayton.org/onoursleeves to join the movement and get more free resources straight to your inbox. Every tool is designed to help families talk about mental health in kid-friendly ways, right at home.
