Has the pandemic kept you from seeing your grandchildren as much as you’d like? Make up for lost time with these age-specific bonding activities and have fun together.

Activities for Ages 2-4

Treasure Hunt

Outside, fill a bin with snow, sand or dead leaves (depending on the season). Then, hide small objects in the bin: toy cars, action figures, shells, hairpins, marbles. If it’s too easy for them, switch things up with a scavenger hunt.

Sensory Workshop

Gather objects with different textures and smells, including fruits and vegetables. With a blindfold or eyes closed, ask your grandchildren to touch, taste and smell whatever you hand them. The object of the game is to guess what it is.

Let’s Get Physical

At this age, children love to be active and imitate others. Turn on some music and be the fitness instructor. Don’t forget to stretch, drink water and rest at the end!

Activities for Ages 5 and up

Build a Fort

A few blankets, chairs and clothespins are all you need to build a fort. Use cushions for extra comfort and let your imaginations run wild.

Off to the Races

Make paper airplanes, cars or even boats (for the tub) using whatever you can put your hands on: corks, egg cartons, styrofoam. Who will win the race?

Hide-and-Seek… After Dark

When the sun goes down and as long as your grandchildren aren’t scared of the dark, turn off the lights for a game of hide-and-seek.

Candy Concoction

Use toothpicks or skewers to make a snowman out of marshmallows and coloured candy. The best part is you get to eat them after you’re done!

Family Photos

Take out the photo album. Your grandchildren will be surprised to see their parents when they were young, and learn more about ‘the good old days’. If you have home videos, prepare a short family film festival.

Ice Skating

Lace on your skates and take them to an indoor or outdoor rink (depending on the season and temperature). The best part: hot chocolate when you’re done!

Cookie Workshop

Get some cookie cutters, turn on some music and bake together. Once cool, decorate them with icing and sweets.

Dance Party

Make space for a dancefloor in the basement or living room. The key to a successful dance party is the more the merrier and an all-banger soundtrack.

Regardless of the activity, the important thing is to spend time with your grandchildren. These moments are great for bonding, learning about each other and keeping you young at heart. What more can you ask for?