The end of another school year is a time of celebration for kids and parents alike. But another generation in the family might also be excited that the kids are off for summer break—the grandparents. It’s no secret that the bond between these two generations is usually strong. Grandparents often provide unconditional love and acceptance that make them popular with their grandchildren.
If your grandkids will soon be putting another year of school behind them, you might want to plan a celebration. We have a few ideas to help you get the fun started.
Ideas to Celebrate the End of the School Year with the Grandkids
- Plan an intergenerational getaway: Depending on your grandchildren’s ages and your budget, one exciting way to end the school year is to take a trip together. This can be as simple as an overnight stay in a city with a great zoo or one with a water park. If you’re able to swing a longer trip, a weekend at the beach or a weekend train trip could be fun. If you want to go all out, a destination like Disneyland will give you time to enjoy one another’s company. Other long-distance trip ideas include the Great Lakes, a New England lighthouse tour, a visit to Super Nintendo World, or a day of adventure at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a great deal of money or go far from home to make great memories.
Here are some suggestions for a year-end celebration that won’t break the bank:
- Pack a picnic and head to the park: Many cities and towns have park systems with a rich array of programs and features. From fishing and nature hikes to kite workshops and ghost tours, you’ll likely find a fun intergenerational activity to enjoy together. Most are very affordably priced, too. You can pack a picnic with the grandkids’ favorite foods and make a day or an afternoon of it.
- Sign up for an art workshop: Arts and crafts projects are popular with kids of all ages, and they are generally easy to find. Once school is out, organizations such as the local library, art museum, and botanical garden host them. Small businesses and individual artists often host one-time painting classes at their own studios as well as at restaurants and community centers.
- Host a cookie party: This is another activity that can easily span the generations. Have the grandkids pick out a few kinds of cookies ahead of time so you can purchase the ingredients. Popular choices are sugar cookies you can cut into fun shapes and frost, or Funfetti cookies. Other ideas might include mini fruit pizzas and gooey s’mores bars.
- Create a summer bucket list: One last suggestion is to head to your favorite ice cream shop and make a list of all the things you and your grandchildren want to enjoy this summer. Include activities like a trip to the mall for a makeover at Sephora, attending a semi-professional or college baseball game, and having pizza and movie night under the stars. Keep the fun going and the memories building all summer long!
Enjoy a Hassle-Free Lifestyle at Sunrise
Imagine if your retirement lifestyle was free from the burdens of home ownership. You’d have more time to pursue new passions and spend time with those you hold dear, like the grandkids. If you’ve been considering moving to a senior living community, we invite you to visit a Sunrise community near you. One of our team members will happily answer any questions you have and take you on a personal tour. Call today to set up a time!