There’s no one quite like a grandparent. Yes, parents are pretty awesome, but grandparents? They’re magical. No one loves you quite like a grandparent does. No one beams with more pride at the mere thought of you or tells better embarrassing stories about your parents at the drop of a hat.
Celebrating the grandparents in our lives is truly something special, and on 28 July, we celebrate World Grandparentsโ Day, while we keep it local with National Grandparents Day on 12 September. We dedicate an entire day to these special beings who bring wisdom, warmth, and so many wonderful quirks into our lives. Grandparents’ Day was first celebrated in the United Kingdom in 1990, inspired by similar events in the United States, and soon it spread globally. Why wouldn’t we want to celebrate the ‘grand’ parents in our lives?
Grandparents play a vital role in the family unit, offering a magical blend of love, life experience, and often questionable fashion choices. They bridge the gap between generations, offering glimpses into times gone by and helping us understand our roots and traditions. Grandparents become living history books, sharing tales of their youth, their first loves (or maybe not-so-successful attempts at romance), and the lessons they learned along the way. Sitting down with grandparents to compile a family tree becomes a journey of discovery, uncovering long-lost relatives and amusing anecdotes that weave the tapestry of your family’s story.
Any time spent with grandparents is usually rather special, but why not make an extra effort this year with some easy tips and tricks?
Grandparents love personalised handmade gifts and treasure the many crafts from their grandchildren. Get crafty and consider hand-drawn cards or a picture collage of grandparents and their grandchildren.
Grandparents have many stories to tell. Perhaps you could document a few of your favourite talesโinteresting facts about their childhood and adventuresโa chance to learn some family history.
For long-distance grandparent-grandchild duos, embrace the wonders of technology. Schedule a video call for a virtual game session, a joint baking session, or even a talent show (prepare for some epic dance moves).
Organise a family gathering or a day out. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a visit to a local attraction, or a cosy afternoon tea, spending quality time together is what counts.
In South Africa, over 3 million grandparents are actively involved in raising their grandchildren, often due to socio-economic factors such as HIV/AIDS, migration, and other family dynamics. Grandparents’ Day in South Africa is embraced as a time for multigenerational gatherings that celebrate unity and heritage. Communities come together to honour elderly members who serve as pillars of wisdom and sources of unconditional love. It’s a day where stories flow freely, laughter echoes through the air, and life lessons are imparted with a warmth that only grandparents can convey.
As we celebrate Grandparents’ Day, let’s remember that it’s not just about the gifts or grand gesturesโit’s about cherishing the moments, creating memories, and honouring those who sprinkle stardust on our lives.
Whether you’re planning a grand adventure or simply sharing a cuppa and a treat, take the time to celebrate the unsung heroes of family life. Because in the end, it’s the little moments of laughter and love that truly make Grandparents’ Day grand.
Here’s to all the gogos and umkhulus out thereโyou’re legends in cardigans and custodians of culture and heritage. Happy Grandparents’ Day!
