"Grandparents are our continuing tie to the near-past, to the events and beliefs and experiences that so strongly affect our lives and the world around us." says Mrs. McQuade, Founder of Grandparents Day. This holiday gives families the opportunity to celebrate their grandparents. How will you and your family be spending Grandparents day? Here is additional information about Grandparents Day with some ideas on how to spend it.
History of Grandparents Day
Grandparents Day was started in 1956 in West Virginia. Mrs. McQuade organized a community celebration for seniors over 80 in her community. During her preparations, she realized that there were many nursing home residents who didn't have family in the area. She wanted to bring attention to those individuals and help them feel honored and appreciated. In 1978, Grandparents day became a national holiday, thanks to McQuade.
While Grandparents Day isn't necessarily a busy day for florist shops, it is a day that should be celebrated and embraced by all generations. Its purpose is to help honor grandparents and provide them the opportunity to share their love with their children. Likewise, grandparents and children should take the time to appreciate their elders and realize the guidance and strength they can offer.
Grandparents Day Activities
Celebrating your grandparents is a beautiful thing, and there are so many ways to do it! It's a great time to pull out the board games and the knitting needles and pull your grandparent close. Here are 5 Grandparents Day activities that the whole family can enjoy.
1. Plan a Simple Visit
If your grandparent lives away from home, make the effort to go visit them on Grandparent's Day. Bring along something for you both to do like games or a good book you can read to them. Seeing your face will most likely be all they really need to make their day special.
2. Have a Picnic in the Park
These days, it's likely your grandma or grandpa doesn't get much time outside, so grab the picnic basket and throw in some old favorites to remind them of the happy memories they spent their lives making. Bring a blanket and an activity you know they'll love—kite flying or a game of chess. You could also opt to have the family take turns giving handmade or personalized gifts.
3. Plant a Garden
If your grandparent has a green thumb, get some gardening tools and help them start that garden they've been itching to grow. You can start growing herbs, vegetables, and fruit, or simply plant flowers if that's what they'd prefer.
4. Host a Movie Night
Grab a family favorite, pop some popcorn and gather around the big screen for an extra special movie night. Let your grandparents pick out their favorite movie to make them feel special.
5. Bake a Special Treat
If you've got a sweet tooth you could've only gotten from grandma or grandpa, have them over to bake a family favorite, such as cookies, brownies, or rice cereal treats. You'll be sure to warm their hearts as well as your belly.
Grandparents Day is a great time to show your loved ones how much you love them and appreciate them.
