Many people have missed sweet conversations and visits with grandparents during the pandemic, so celebrating National Grandparents Day on September 13 may be bigger than ever. There are still ways to honor and celebrate them this year, whether six feet or six states away!
Experience History
According to Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm in Olathe, Grandparents Day is a great opportunity to share 1860s living history with the whole family. Activities may include stagecoach rides, seasonal farming activities, visiting the Mahaffie House, blacksmith and cookstove demonstrations, as well as self-guided tours of exhibits in the Agricultural Heritage Livestock Barn and the Heritage Center. One grandparent admitted free with one paying grandchild admission. Admission is $7/adults, $5/children ages 5-11, 4 & under are free. Olathe residents receive $2/off admission.
Interviews
Whether you or your child is the reporter, you can set up a phone, video, or in-person interview with the grandparents. There are so many great questions to learn more about them—”Does your name have a special meaning?” “What was your favorite job and why?” “What is your favorite city to visit?” “What do you remember most about being ___ years old?” The grandparents can turn the tables and interview the grandkids as well!
Do Some Work
Mow Grandma and Grandpa’s yard, clear out the weeds, paint the tarnished trim, clean the floors…whatever chores they might be avoiding, knock them off of their list.
Eat and Play
Chicken N Pickle in North KC has Grandparents Day listed on its events page along with “Celebrate your grandparents by bringing them to Chicken N Pickle, where we have fun for all ages!”
Paint Together
Pinot’s Palette offers painting classes, and the Olathe location has one on Grandparents Day to paint “Autumn Birch Trees.” There are several other choices on different days to fit your taste and schedule. Not only can it be a creative way to spend time together, but you’ll also have a keepsake to remember the day.
Go Virtual
Too late to mail something? Not a problem. Check out the grandparents cards on Kisseo.com to send a cute one via email, Facebook, Twitter, or other platform. You can choose from different sentiments like “Best Grandmother Award” and add a personal message.
Whether or not you have your own family to honor, there are many “grandparents” who would love to hear from you. During the pandemic, several senior living and assisted living communities around the country have been posting photos of residents who are looking for pen pals. They post pictures with info about their specific interests so you can reach out to someone you share a common interest with. You could even consider contacting a senior or assisted living community closer to home to get something started.
Several sources show 66% of grandparents have never celebrated Grandparents Day. This year, let’s aim to change that!
