Preschool Activities for Grandparents' Day

Preschool Activities for Grandparents' Day

Grandparents Day is a special opportunity to honor the unique love and wisdom that grandparents (and grand-friends!) bring into a child’s life. For preschoolers, it’s also a perfect chance to practice kindness, creativity, and communication. Whether you're planning a classroom event or at-home celebration, we've gathered some fun and easy Grandparents Day activities for preschoolers that will create lasting memories.

In addition to these activities you can visit our My Family and Home Theme in the Activity Library for Family activities appropriate for Grandparents' Day as well! 

Read Aloud Books About Grandparents

Storytime is a beautiful way to help children understand and appreciate the role grandparents play in their lives. These preschool-friendly picture books are perfect for reading together during Grandparents Day celebrations.
Recommended Grandparents Day Books:

• “Llama Llama Gram and Grandpa” by Anna Dewdney
  A heartwarming story about an overnight visit filled with love, adventure, and a little homesickness.
  
• “The Grandma Book” by Todd Parr
  A colorful, inclusive look at all the different kinds of grandmas in the world.
  
• “How to Babysit a Grandpa” and “How to Babysit a Grandma” by Jean Reagan
  These silly, sweet stories flip the script and let kids take the lead.
  
• “Just Grandma and Me” by Mercer Mayer
  A classic Little Critter story about spending a fun day with Grandma.
  
• “Because Your Grandparents Love You” by Andrew Clements
  A gentle story about how grandparents show their love in meaningful ways.
  

Extension idea: After reading, ask children to share their favorite memory with a grandparent or draw a picture of something they love to do together.

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Grandparents Day Craft Ideas for Preschool

1. Handprint or Footprint Keepsake
Create a simple painted handprint with a poem or message like:
"These hands may be small, but they hold a big love for you!"
Materials: Paint, cardstock, markers, optional poem template
Tip: Laminate for durability and display it at home or give it as a gift.

2. "I Love My Grandparent Because…" Drawing Page
Have preschoolers complete the sentence “I love my Grandma/Grandpa because…” and illustrate their answer. Add a photo or child’s portrait for extra personalization.
🖍 Great for practicing language development and expressive art.

3. Grandparents Day Cards
Use pre-made templates or fold construction paper to create personalized cards. Add drawings, stickers, or even dictated messages.
Encourage children to share something kind or silly they love about their grandparents.

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Grandparent Interview Activity

Help children learn about their family history with a simple interview activity. Use prompts like:

• What was your favorite game as a kid?
• What did you eat for lunch at school?
• What was Grandma/Grandpa like when they were little?
  

Members can download this free Grandparents' Day Activity Set!

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Host a “Grandparents & Me” Tea or Snack Time

Invite grandparents (or family friends) for a special snack or picnic in the classroom or home. Provide simple refreshments and let children perform a poem or song they've practiced.
Bonus idea: Have kids sing a song like “Skidamarink” or “You Are My Sunshine.”

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Create a Classroom Book 

Create a Binder "Book" containing drawings, photos, or dictated stories about each child’s grandparents. It's a great day to build community in your classroom.

Quiet Time Activities or Stations

Set up independent activity centers for quieter moments during your celebration:

• Grandparent Puzzle Station: Use photos to create custom puzzles.
• Letter or Card Writing Table: Encourage writing or drawing letters to grandparents who live far away.
• Family Tree Craft: Let children create a simple family tree using cut-outs or finger painting.

No Grandparent Nearby?

Not all children have a grandparent in their life. Consider:

• Inviting local “grand-friends” or seniors to visit
• Celebrating any special older adult in the child’s life
• Focusing on honoring anyone who helps and loves the child

🎉 The goal is connection, not perfection!

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Grandparents Day in preschool is a meaningful way to build family bonds, promote emotional development, and create joyful memories. Whether through crafts, stories, or heartfelt conversations, these activities help children express appreciation and practice empathy.