September 7th is Grandparents Day! Here are Five Ways to Celebrate

Grandparents play a special role in the lives of children, families and our society as a whole. While it’s important to honor our aging loved ones every day, September 7th offers a special opportunity to show your love with the arrival of National Grandparents Day.

Observed every year on the first Sunday following Labor Day, Grandparents Day is all about celebrating your cherished loved ones and creating even more happy memories together.

1. Flower Power

Flowers are special and can brighten any day. Forget-me-nots are the official flower of Grandparents Day. Send a bouquet if you are far from your aging loved one, or stop by for a visit with a beautiful arrangement.

2. Game On

Does your aging loved one have a favorite game or activity? There’s no better way to spend the day together than sharing a beloved hobby. Whether it’s a childhood board game or a round of miniature golf, playing together offers an opportunity to connect and enjoy each other's company.

3. Look Back

Grandparents are proud of their legacy, and Grandparents Day offers the opportunity to look back and remember. Whether you make a scrapbook of photos, prepare a family tree, or record your family history, there are many ways to honor your grandparents by preserving your family story. This is also a great time to teach kids about the importance of family. Keep them involved by designating them as information gatherers.

4. Shower Them With Love Letters

In an age of email and text messages, written letters are increasingly rare...and particularly meaningful. Transform Grandparents Day into Grandparents Week by inviting grand kids and other family members to send letters in the days leading up to Grandparents Day. Suggest that they draw pictures of things that remind them of Grandma or Grandpa, or write about happy memories together. Another option is to collect these documents and present them as a gift, particularly if you will be visiting on Grandparents Day.

5. Visiting Matters

Of course, there’s nothing better than a visit with cherished love ones -- especially if your family member lives alone or in a retirement community. If he/she enjoys eating out, make a reservation at a special restaurant. Other grandparents may prefer family members to join them for a meal with friends in their community. If distance separates you and your loved ones on Grandparents Day, consider volunteering at a local retirement home or senior living community in their honor.

The bond between a grandparent and grandchild is unique, fulfilling, and special across all generations. National Grandparents Day delivers the perfect chance to celebrate your loved one and have some fun together along the way.

Key Takeaways

• Grandparents Day offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your loved ones.
• While flowers and visits are always appreciated, think outside-the-box when making your Grandparents Day plans.
• Be sure to involve younger members of the family -- this not only helps foster family bonds, but also makes any gift that much more special.