Summer often brings families together. With school out and more free time, the long, warm days are perfect for visiting grandparents. For those with loved ones in a senior living community, these visits can be the highlight of the season and mean more than you might think.
The tricky part is finding activities that work for everyone, from energetic toddlers to teens on their phones and great-grandparents. The good news is that the best summer activities with grandparents are usually simple, flexible, and easy to adjust. Here are some ideas that everyone can enjoy.
Spend thoughtful time outside
You do not need a big trip to enjoy summer. A slow walk in the community gardens, feeding the birds for a few minutes, or a picnic on a shaded patio can give everyone some fresh air and a new view. Container gardening is also great for all ages. Kids can dig and water, while grandparents share tips about which flowers grow best. Make sure there is water and a comfortable place to sit, and keep things relaxed. It’s also wise to pay attention to the heat index, as both children and older adults are more sensitive to the heat.
Make something together
There is something special about working together on a project. You can bake a recipe that has been in the family forever, decorate cards, press flowers from the garden, or use a craft kit. Kids love the chance to get messy. Older adults often light up at the chance to pass along a skill or tell the story behind that recipe. Nobody will remember whether the cookies came out right. They will remember the afternoon.
Trade stories and memories
A visit is a great time to talk through family memories. Look through old photo albums, ask questions like “what was it like when you were my age,” or record some favorite stories on your phone. Younger kids can draw pictures of the stories they hear, and teens can help make a short video or digital scrapbook. These small ways of keeping family history matter to everyone for years to come.
Keep it playful
Games are a fun way for all ages to connect. Card games, dominoes, puzzles, bingo, and trivia can include almost everyone. Choose a game that everyone knows so no one feels left out, and you might find out that Grandpa is the checkers champion.
Swap skills
A simple way to connect is by teaching each other something new. Grandkids can show a new app, game, or photo trick, while grandparents can teach a card trick, a knitting stitch, a few words in another language, or how to whistle with a blade of grass. This way, everyone gets to be the expert for a bit.
A few tips for an easy visit
Short, relaxed visits are often better than long, busy ones. Plan around your loved one’s energy and make sure there is time to rest. Bring one activity ready to go so you are not searching for ideas, and let your loved one set the pace. Most importantly, remember that just being together is what matters most.
Visiting a grandparent in a senior living community is more than just spending time together. You are building a bond that helps every generation in your family.
At Claiborne Senior Living communities, we love seeing families enjoy summer together. Our team is here to help you plan a visit that works for everyone. To find out more, visit your nearest Claiborne Senior Living community.