Do This 20-Minute Daily Art Hack to Unleash Your Grandchild’s Inner Genius

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Today, I came across something really interesting, and I just have to share it with you. It’s about a simple little habit—just 20 minutes a day—that can help our grandkids become amazing problem solvers.

Now, we all know kids don’t always love the things that are good for them—like eating their veggies, finishing their homework, or brushing their teeth without a fuss. But these small daily habits are what help them grow into happy, confident, and capable adults.

So, what does the research say?

It turns out there’s one simple activity that doesn’t get nearly enough credit when it comes to helping kids grow: art.

Susan Magsamen, a child development expert, says, “Children who use the arts are better problem solvers.” She explains that art helps build important brain skills, like memory and focus, and even teaches kids how to manage their emotions. It can calm their nervous system and truly change how they feel inside.

The best part? Just 20 minutes a day can make a big difference. Whether they’re painting, coloring, sculpting, or simply looking at beautiful art, those moments can help our grandkids feel calmer, think more clearly, and grow into happier, more confident people.

What if my grandchild isn’t “good” at art?

Don’t worry one bit! The wonderful thing about art is that it’s not about being “good” at it. It’s about expressing yourself and having fun. Ivy Ross, co-author of Your Brain on Art, says that we’re all naturally wired to be creative, and art is one of the best ways to let that creativity shine.

Ross even shared a sweet story about her own son: “When he was little, he loved painting and sketching. I encouraged him to keep at it, and over time, he grew a strong sense of self-expression—and a love for art that has stayed with him to this day.”

So, even if your grandchild’s painting looks more like scribbles than a masterpiece, that’s perfectly okay. What matters most is the joy they feel while creating—and how it helps them grow on the inside.

So, what can you do?

The best part is—art doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive! It can be as simple as stepping outside and staring up at the clouds. Ask your grandkids what shapes or pictures they can find in the sky. This little game (called pareidolia) sparks their imagination—and kids love the surprise of finding something new.

Child expert Susan Magsamen says, “Take kids to places where there’s awe, surprise, and wonder. Once you see their excitement grow, you can guide them toward more activities that build on that feeling.”

And remember, art isn’t just about painting or drawing. Telling stories, listening to music, dancing in the living room, or even writing silly little poems can be just as powerful. Think of it as giving your grandkids a “healthy art diet”—a mix of different creative experiences to help their minds and hearts grow.

More activities you can do with your grandkids

Here are some fun and creative activities you can enjoy with your grandchildren:

• Visit a local museum or art gallery.
• Put on a DIY puppet show using things around the house.
• Listen to different kinds of music and dance together in the living room.
• Paint or draw what you see in the backyard.
• Write a silly or magical story together, taking turns adding to the plot.

When we share these little moments, we’re doing more than just having fun—we’re helping our grandchildren grow into curious, creative, and confident people. Art sparks their imagination, builds problem-solving skills, and, best of all, gives us time to bond with them in such a special way.

Ivy Ross calls it a “well-balanced art diet.” She says kids need a mix of experiences—listening to stories, enjoying music, and also making things with their own hands. This variety helps them explore what they like, what they don’t, and what they find beautiful.

And as grandmothers, we have the best job of all—we get to guide them, encourage them, and make memories they’ll treasure forever. A painted rock, a silly puppet show, or even a story written together might become one of their happiest childhood memories.

So, let’s embrace the joy of art with our grandkids. As Susan Magsamen reminds us, “Providing that time and space allows you to figure out what you like and don’t like and what you think is beautiful.” What a gift it is to share that discovery with the little ones we love so much.

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