10 Ancient Grandparenting Tactics That Still Work Like a Charm Today

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Do you remember when your kids were small, and all of a sudden you caught yourself sounding just like your own mom? (Don’t worry—we’ve all been there! It’s part of the journey.) The truth is, our moms were right about a lot of things. So were our grandmas, and even the ones before them.

Sure, the world seems to change faster than ever. But some lessons—especially the ones about parenting and grandparenting—stand the test of time. Here are 10 old-fashioned tricks that still work wonders in today’s modern world of grandparenting.

1. Children, like flowers, grow best in nature

This is one of my favorite sayings because it’s so true! Grandmas know kids need fresh air, sunshine, and plenty of messy play outdoors. Times are different now—we can’t just send them outside until the streetlights come on like our moms and grandmas did. But we can grab a book and a cup of coffee, sit outside, and let the kids explore while we keep an eye on them (and relax a little too).

2. Home remedies are often the best

When little ones aren’t feeling well, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. For a burn, a piece of fresh aloe works wonders.

And while some of the “old remedies” might sound funny now, many of them still do the trick. I still use the same simple cures my grandma passed down for life’s little aches—and they work just as well today.

3. A little dirt never hurt

Kids need to be kids, and that means getting dirty sometimes! Splashing in puddles, digging for worms, or making mud pies isn’t just fun—it’s healthy. Dirt and germs help their bodies grow stronger and build good immune systems.

Of course, we keep them safe, but letting them play in the mess of childhood is one of the best gifts we can give.

4. Hard work goes a long way

So many kids today have never pulled weeds, mowed a lawn, or scrubbed a dish, and it really shows. Teaching our grandkids age-appropriate chores early on is one of the best gifts we can give. Hard work keeps them active, but even more than that, it teaches responsibility and builds character that will last a lifetime.

5. Play fair—but don’t go easy

Grandmas love to play games, and I’ll play just about anything with my grandkids. I still remember my own grandma absolutely wiping the floor with us in Bridge, and she never let us win just to be nice. Now I do the same with my grands. Winning feels sweeter when you’ve earned it, and losing teaches just as much.

6. Handwritten letters and cards are treasures

Some of my fondest memories are the cards and letters I got from my grandma—I’ve even kept many of them to this day. There’s something so special about opening the mailbox and finding a note written just for you.

That’s why I make it a point to send little letters and cards to my grandkids. I want them to feel as loved and remembered as I did when I was a child.

7. Make things with your own hands

We live in a world where so much is tossed away—fast fashion, cheaply made toys, and items that don’t last. When I was a girl, my mom sewed all of our dresses. She learned from her mom, and her mom before her. Those dresses weren’t just clothes—they were special, one-of-a-kind, and made with love. That’s a gift worth passing on to our grandkids.

8. Waste not, want not

Our grandparents knew how to make the most of everything. Leftovers became new meals, clothes were mended, and nothing went to waste. These simple habits weren’t just practical—they taught resourcefulness.

By showing our grandkids the value of using what we have, we pass down both wisdom and care for the world around us.

9. Keep traditions alive

Traditions—whether big or small—hold families together. They might be cultural, like holiday customs, or simple family ones, like Sunday dinners or baking cookies every Christmas. Grandmas are keepers of these traditions, and sharing them gives our grandkids a sense of belonging that will carry on for generations.

10. Reading makes life more interesting

Whether it’s the Bible or the latest novel, grandmas can almost always be found with a book in hand. We grew up reading, and many of us still prefer a good story over screens and apps. And of course, nothing makes us happier than reading to our grandbabies and watching their little faces light up with wonder.

Conclusion
And there you have it—those timeless “grandma tactics” that still work just as well today! Who says the newest way is always the best way? If you have a special tip or tradition of your own, I’d love to hear it. Sharing our wisdom keeps the circle of grandmas strong and full of love.

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