Danielle McCarthy
Family & Pets

6 fun activities to do with the grandkids these summer holidays

The summer school holidays are in full swing, and every grandparent-turned-babysitter has the same question on their lips – what to do? So, to ensure you both enjoy your time together, we’ve compiled six of the best summer activities to do with your grandkids.

1. Go on a scavenger hunt

Get your grandkids out in the fresh air and away from those pesky screens with a good old-fashioned scavenger hunt and turn a boring walk into an adventure. Write a list of things for them to find along the way – e.g. a Y-shaped twig, a yellow flower, a coin, a dandelion etc. – and think of a reward to treat them with once they’ve found everything.

2. Play card and board games

There’s a reason why we loved these so much when we were little, so your grandchildren are bound to adore them as well. Whether it’s a simple game of “go fish” with the littlies or Monopoly with your older grandkids, even in the age of iPads and Xboxes, cards and board games still have the power to keep us entertained for hours.

3. Get baking

Want to pass on your love of cooking? Get them in the kitchen and help make their favourite treat. Show them how to crack eggs, mix cake batter, roll cookie dough and teach them how to be safe in the kitchen. The best part? When you’re done, there’s a delicious treat for everyone. Win win!

4. Show them your favourite things

What music did you like to listen to at their age? What was your favourite film as a child? Generations may divide you, but kids are still kids – no matter what year it is. Put on your favourite childhood movie, make some popcorn, dim the lights. Not only will they love it too, but soon you’ll feel like a kid again.

5. Start a vegetable garden

Creating a veggie garden with your grandkids will not only help them exercise their green thumb, but it’ll show them the importance of learning where their food comes from – plus, it’s loads of fun. You don’t need a huge space (you could even create a potted veggie garden), seeds are cheap and you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labour – literally!

6. Let them choose

No one knows what your grandkids like better than they themselves – whether it’s swimming at the beach, making arts and crafts or going 10-pin bowling. Even if they want to play a video game, it doesn’t have to be a solo activity – grab that extra controller and get playing! They’ll be happy to show you the ropes.

Tell us in the comments below, what’s your favourite summertime activity to do with the grandkids?

Tags:
family, holidays, activities, grandkids, fun, summer, do