Spending time with grandchildren is one of the greatest joys of being a grandparent. Outdoor play provides the perfect opportunity for bonding, and it’s also a great way to exercise and get fresh air. Now that Spring is around the corner, Baldwin House Senior Living in Michigan has some fantastic activities that seniors can do with their grandchildren (or other beloved children in their lives), including modifications for those with limited mobility.
Gardening Together
Gardening is a relaxing and fulfilling activity that allows seniors and grandchildren to work together. You can plant flowers or grow vegetables. For seniors with limited mobility, raised garden beds or container gardening are great alternatives. They allow you to work from a seated position and guide your grandchildren in planting, watering and harvesting. Your grandchildren will love seeing their hard work pay off when the plants grow.
Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts
A walk through a local park or around the neighborhood can be a wonderful way to explore nature together. To make it more engaging, try a scavenger hunt! Create a list of things to find, such as a red leaf or a squirrel. For those who have difficulty walking long distances, a seated version can involve watching from a porch or bench and checking off items from a list.
Flying Kites
Flying a kite may sound a bit old-fashioned, but it still brings joy to both young and old. Seniors can show their grandchildren how to put the kite together and get it launched in the air. If running is an issue, you can still cheer your grandchildren on from the sidelines as they fly the kite.
Sidewalk Chalk and Arts & Crafts
Sidewalk chalk allows for endless creativity, from drawing colorful pictures to playing hopscotch. Seniors who prefer to stay seated can participate by suggesting ideas, drawing from a chair or helping grandchildren outline the shapes to color in.
Picnic in the Park
A simple yet enjoyable outdoor activity is packing a picnic and heading to a local park. Seniors can prepare easy-to-pack snacks and enjoy quality time. It’s a great way to get some fresh air as you talk and share stories. You can also play simple games like “I Spy” or bring some cards along. If mobility is a concern, look for areas with comfortable seating like picnic tables, or bring some folding chairs with you.
Fishing Adventures
Fishing is a relaxing way to bond with grandchildren while enjoying the peace of the outdoors. For those with mobility challenges, many parks and lakes have accessible fishing piers or seated areas where everyone can participate comfortably.
Bubbles and Ball Games
Blowing bubbles, tossing a beach ball or playing balloon volleyball are fun activities that can be enjoyed while sitting or standing. These low-impact games are perfect for all ages and mobility levels.
Spending time outdoors with grandchildren doesn’t have to be strenuous. The key is to find activities that match comfort levels while allowing for shared joy and connection. With a little creativity and adaptation, grandparents and grandchildren can embrace all the benefits of outdoor play. Baldwin House Senior Living encourages its residents to create beautiful memories with their families outdoors.
Visit a Baldwin House Senior Living community near you and ask what activities we have planned for our residents. Baldwin House Senior Living is built upon the strong foundation of guiding families and empowering seniors.
Baldwin House combines care with compassion and dignity. We offer families peace of mind and give seniors who call Baldwin House home the freedom to live their very best lives. Call us today to schedule a visit. We’d love to meet you or your loved one!