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33 Silly Things Grandparents Do That Grandkids Secretly Love

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John Abraham
Hi, I’m John. At Mellowpine, I write about relationships, family connections, and ways to build stronger bonds in everyday life. I love sharing practical tips and thoughtful insights to help couples, parents, and grandparents bring more joy into their relationships. If you’d like to connect, feel free to reach me at mail@mellowpine.com.

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Grandparent and grandchild dance battle
TungArt7/Pixabay

Grandparents hold a special place in the hearts of their grandkids, with a charm that’s uniquely theirs. Their ability to turn ordinary moments into unforgettable memories often stems from indulging in the whimsical and the playful.

This bond is nurtured through delightful antics that bring laughter and joy. Understanding these cherished interactions can help grandparents and grandkids alike celebrate their unique relationship.

Here, we explore 33 endearing quirks that grandparents do, which grandkids secretly adore.

33. Dancing Like No One’s Watching

Rex Li/Unsplash

Grandparents often surprise grandkids with impromptu dance sessions that break the monotony of daily life. Whether it’s a waltz in the living room or a jig in the kitchen, these moments are filled with joy and laughter. Kids love seeing their grandparents having fun without caring who’s watching.

Try this > Next time a catchy tune plays, invite your grandkid to join you in a silly dance.

Script > “Come on, let’s show them our best moves!”

32. Funny Faces and Silly Voices

PublicDomainPictures/Pixabay

There’s nothing like the hilarity of grandparents pulling funny faces or speaking in exaggerated voices. These antics can turn a dull day into a memorable one. Kids delight in the exaggerated expressions and voices that bring their grandparents’ characters to life.

Try this > Use a silly voice when reading a story or making up a character.

Script > “What do you think my silly monster voice sounds like?”

31. Sneaking Extra Treats

Alex Green/Pexels

Grandparents are infamous for slipping an extra cookie or candy into their grandkids’ hands. This small act of indulgence often creates a secret bond between them. The joy of a sweet surprise is a simple pleasure that grandkids cherish.

Try this > Have a special treat jar that’s just for ‘grandkid visits.’

Script > “Don’t tell your parents, but here’s a little something sweet!”

Quick Quiz

How Strong Is Your Bond With Your Grandchildren?

This quizz assesses the grandparent-grandchild bond on a spectrum.

1 / 5

When you're together, what is the focus of your time?

2 / 5

How do you handle disagreements or different points of view with your grandchildren?

3 / 5

If your grandchild was having a problem, are they likely to confide in you?

4 / 5

How well do you know your grandchildren's interests and friends?

5 / 5

How often do you communicate with your grandchildren outside of in-person visits?

30. Storytime with a Twist

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Grandparents have a knack for storytelling, often adding their own creative twists to keep grandkids engaged. Whether it’s changing the ending of a classic tale or inserting a funny character, these stories captivate young imaginations.

Try this > Create a story together, taking turns to add a new, unexpected plot twist.

Script > “What if the princess had a pet dragon instead of a horse?”

29. Playing Dress-Up

cotelo/Pixabay

The joy of rummaging through old clothes and accessories to create imaginative costumes is a classic grandparent-grandkid activity. Whether it’s pretending to be a pirate or a princess, these moments are filled with creativity.

Try this > Dedicate a box to dress-up clothes for when the grandkids visit.

Script > “Let’s see who can create the wackiest outfit!”

28. Inventing Crazy Nicknames

Elf-Moondance/Pixabay

Grandparents often give their grandkids playful nicknames that hold a world of meaning. These names are a sign of affection and a unique bond. Kids love the exclusivity of a nickname only their grandparents call them.

Try this > Invent a nickname based on a shared memory or a funny incident.

Script > “Remember the time you couldn’t stop giggling? That’s why you’re my little Tickles!”

27. Making Up Silly Songs

Talahria Jensen/Unsplash

Whether it’s a tune about brushing teeth or a song about a pet, grandparents often make up silly songs that entertain grandkids. These songs create shared moments of happiness that stick in children’s minds.

Related reading  36 Signs You’re the Overhelping Grandparent (and How to Stop)

Try this > Create a morning routine song together.

Script > “Let’s sing our ‘Good Morning Sunshine’ song to wake up the day!”

26. Pretending to Lose at Games

cottonbro studio/Pexels

Grandparents often feign defeat in games to boost their grandkids’ confidence and enjoyment. This nurturing gesture helps kids feel capable and victorious.

Try this > Play a board game and let them win a few rounds.

Script > “Oh no, you’re too good at this! I guess I’ll have to practice more!”

25. Telling Tall Tales

Jorge Dominguez/Unsplash

With a twinkle in their eye, grandparents weave tales that stretch the imagination. These stories, filled with exaggeration and whimsy, captivate grandkids and spark their creativity.

Try this > Start a story and let your grandkid add their wild ideas.

Script > “Once upon a time, there was a giant who loved to eat… what do you think he ate?”

24. Mix-Matching Clothing

Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels

Grandparents sometimes dress in unexpected combinations that delight grandkids. These quirky outfits show a sense of fun and disregard for convention. Kids enjoy the humor in seeing their grandparents in mismatched attire.

Try this > Plan a ‘silly clothes day’ where everyone wears the most colorful and mismatched outfits.

Script > “Let’s see who can wear the silliest socks today!”

Quick Quiz

What's Your Grandparenting Love Language?

This quizz is based on Gary Chapman's popular concept and helps grandparents reflect on how they naturally show love and how they can better connect with their grandkids.

1 / 5

What do you most hope your grandchildren will remember about you?

2 / 5

Your grandchild is having a tough day. What's your first instinct?

3 / 5

What's your favorite way to show affection to your grandchild?

4 / 5

Your grandchild has a big milestone, like a dance recital or a sports game. How do you show your support?

5 / 5

What makes you feel most connected to your grandchild after they've visited?

23. Hiding Coins for Treasure Hunts

Alexey Demidov/Unsplash

Creating a treasure hunt with hidden coins or small trinkets turns an afternoon into an adventure. Grandkids relish the thrill of discovery and the chance to explore.

Try this > Hide coins around the house for a treasure hunt.

Script > “I heard there might be a hidden treasure in the backyard, shall we go and find it?”

22. Creating Funny Walks

Mikhail Nilov/Pexels

Grandparents can turn a simple walk into a parade of giggles with exaggerated and funny strides. Kids love copying and inventing new ways to walk alongside them.

Try this > Make a silly walk challenge where everyone invents their unique stride.

Script > “Can you walk like a penguin? Let’s see who can do it best!”

21. Making Silly Sounds

Benson Low/Unsplash

From animal noises to silly sound effects, grandparents often entertain their grandkids with an array of funny sounds. These playful noises elicit laughter and delight.

Try this > Use silly sounds to narrate a simple activity, like making breakfast.

Related reading  28 Creative Alternatives to Screen Time Grandkids Won’t Resist

Script > “Can you make the sound of a frying egg? Let’s make breakfast music!”

20. Drawing Funny Cartoons

RDNE Stock project/Pexels

Grandparents often doodle funny cartoons that capture the essence of a moment. These simple drawings spark creativity and laughter.

Try this > Draw a cartoon together based on a funny family memory.

Script > “Remember when we all got soaked in the rain? Let’s draw that adventure!”

19. Wearing Quirky Accessories

Donald Martinez/Unsplash

Whether it’s a funny hat or oversized sunglasses, grandparents have a way of turning accessories into a source of amusement. Kids enjoy seeing their grandparents’ playful side.

Try this > Have a ‘funny accessories’ box that everyone can dive into.

Script > “Let’s see who can wear the silliest hat today!”

18. Whispering Funny Secrets

Los Muertos Crew/Pexels

Grandparents often share whispered secrets that are silly and light-hearted, creating a special bond of trust. These whispered moments make kids feel important.

Try this > Whisper a funny secret in their ear that makes them giggle.

Script > “Did you know that Grandpa snores like a bear? But shh, it’s our secret!”

17. Tickle Attacks

cottonbro studio/Pexels

A well-timed tickle attack can send grandkids into fits of laughter. This playful gesture is a simple joy that creates lasting memories.

Try this > Play a tickle game with a surprise start and end.

Script > “Oh no, here comes the tickle monster!”

16. Pretending to Forget Names

FoxFedProductions/Pixabay

Grandparents jokingly pretend to forget names, creating a fun way to engage with their grandkids. It’s a playful way to foster closeness and laughter.

Try this > Pretend to mix up names in a humorous way.

Script > “Is it Henry or Harry? Or maybe it’s my little Hurricane!”

15. Playing Hide and Seek

Mikhail Nilov/Pexels

Even a simple game of hide and seek becomes an adventure with grandparents. Their enthusiasm makes these games special and memorable.

Try this > Play in a familiar setting and create new hiding spots together.

Script > “I wonder where my sneaky little explorer is hiding this time!”

14. Making Up New Rules

Derek Lee/Unsplash

Grandparents bring a fresh twist to games by inventing new rules, ensuring fun and unpredictability. Kids love the creativity and spontaneity this brings.

Try this > Add a silly rule to a classic game.

Script > “In this game, every time you roll a six, you have to hop on one foot!”

Quick Quiz

How Well Do You Speak 'Kid-Language'?

This quiz will test a grandparent's knowledge of modern slang, social media trends, and communication habits of the younger generations.

1 / 5

What is a "DM"?

2 / 5

What does it mean if your grandchild says something is "fire"?

3 / 5

Your grandchild says, "I'm going to 'spill the tea' about my friend." What do they mean?

4 / 5

You see your grandchild taking a "selfie" with a "duck face." What are they trying to do?

5 / 5

Your grandchild texts you, "OMG, that movie was mid." What does "mid" mean?

13. Being Overdramatic

Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels

Grandparents sometimes exaggerate their reactions to events, turning mundane moments into theatrical performances that amuse their grandkids.

Try this > React dramatically to ordinary events, like the toast popping.

Script > “Oh my goodness, the toast has become a rocket ship!”

12. Making Funny Faces in Photos

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Taking photos together becomes a joy-filled activity when grandparents encourage funny faces. These photos capture the essence of fun and carefree moments.

Try this > Have a photo day dedicated to only making funny faces.

Script > “On the count of three, let’s make the funniest face we can think of!”

11. Joining in Kid’s Games

cherylholt/Pixabay

Grandparents often join in on their grandkids’ games, immersing themselves in imaginative play. This participation strengthens bonds and creates shared joy.

Try this > Ask them to teach you their favorite game.

Related reading  36 Little Changes That Make a Big Difference in How Your Grandkids See You

Script > “I want to play what you’re playing; can you show me how?”

10. Singing Off-Key

cottonbro studio/Pexels

A willingness to sing off-key and embrace the fun of it showcases a grandparent’s playful spirit. These moments are filled with laughter and warmth.

Try this > Have a karaoke session where everyone sings their favorite song.

Script > “Let’s sing as loud and silly as we can!”

9. Having Funny Conversations

gaspar zaldo/Unsplash

Grandparents delight in having conversations filled with nonsense and whimsy. These light-hearted chats are a source of entertainment and bonding.

Try this > Engage in a conversation where everything has a funny twist.

Script > “What if cats could talk? What would our cat say about today?”

8. Making Funny Dances

Huskyherz/Pixabay

Creating spontaneous, funny dances is a delightful activity grandparents share with their grandkids. These moments are filled with giggles and joy.

Try this > Make a new dance move together that no one else knows.

Script > “Let’s make up our special dance move; what should it be called?”

7. Joking About Age

EddieKphoto/Pixabay

Grandparents often make light-hearted jokes about their age, teaching grandkids to approach growing older with humor.

Try this > Share a humorous story about aging.

Script > “I’m not old, just vintage! Like a fine cheese!”

6. Sharing Funny Memories

stevepb/Pixabay

Recounting amusing anecdotes from the past allows grandparents to share wisdom through laughter. These stories connect generations.

Try this > Tell them about a funny incident from your childhood.

Script > “Did I ever tell you about the time I got stuck in the mud? It was quite the adventure!”

5. Inventing New Phrases

Mikhail Nilov/Pexels

Grandparents often create unique phrases that become part of the family vernacular. These phrases add humor and identity to family interactions.

Try this > Make up a phrase that describes a shared experience.

Script > “Remember our ‘giggle storm’ moment?”

4. Building Crazy Pillow Forts

Godsgirl_madi/Pixabay

Constructing elaborate pillow forts is a beloved pastime that transforms ordinary living rooms into magical castles.

Try this > Build a fort together and let your imagination run wild.

Script > “Our fort needs a secret password; what should it be?”

3. Having Silly Competitions

Grandparent and child exchanging secret handshake
Mikhail Nilov/Pexels

Friendly competitions, like who can make the silliest face, are a fun way for grandparents and grandkids to bond.

Try this > Create a competition that everyone can join in.

Script > “Let’s see who can make the biggest bubble with their gum!”

2. Creating Funny Traditions

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Grandparents often start quirky traditions that grandkids look forward to, creating a lasting legacy of joy.

Try this > Start a tradition of wearing silly hats on birthdays.

Script > “It’s our tradition to wear a silly hat while we eat cake!”

1. Whispering Funny Secrets

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Grandparents often share whispered secrets that are silly and light-hearted, creating a special bond of trust. These whispered moments make kids feel important.

Try this > Whisper a funny secret in their ear that makes them giggle.

Script > “Did you know that Grandpa snores like a bear? But shh, it’s our secret!”

Quick Quiz

Are You a 'Cool' Grandparent or a 'Classic' Grandparent?

1 / 5

How do you feel about your grandchildren's modern music/movies/games?

2 / 5

When it comes to treats and gifts, what's your typical style?

3 / 5

What kind of stories do your grandchildren usually hear from you?

4 / 5

What's your approach to technology when spending time with your grandchildren?

5 / 5

How do you usually communicate with your grandkids when they're not around?

John Abraham
Hi, I’m John. At Mellowpine, I write about relationships, family connections, and ways to build stronger bonds in everyday life. I love sharing practical tips and thoughtful insights to help couples, parents, and grandparents bring more joy into their relationships. If you’d like to connect, feel free to reach me at mail@mellowpine.com.

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