How to Build Unbreakable Bond With Your Grandchildren (At Every Age)

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Being a grandma is such a special gift. You get a front-row seat to watch your amazing grandkids grow, and you get to love them on every step of the way.

If you remember raising your own kids (the parents of your grandkids!), you know that every stage of childhood is different. One moment they’re tiny and cuddly, and the next they’re asking big questions and learning to drive!

It can feel like a lot to keep up with—but don’t worry. I’ve made a list of fun and easy ways to bond with your grandkids at every age.

Bonding with newborn grandkids (0 to 3 months)

Some people say you can spoil a baby by holding them too much—but that’s just not true. In fact, WebMD says that babies need lots of love and attention to grow strong in every way—emotionally, physically, and mentally.

So go ahead and hold that sweet baby close. Cuddling, rocking, and loving on them helps meet their basic needs.

Bonding with infant grandkids (3 to 12 months)

If you’ve raised kids, you know how fast babies grow and change. Even though they’re getting bigger, bonding with an infant is still a lot like bonding with a newborn.

Rock them, read to them, sing those lullabies—even if your voice cracks. These early moments lay the foundation of emotional trust.

Pro tip: Create a simple goodbye ritual so they recognize your presence (and look forward to it!).

Bonding with toddler grandkids (1 to 3 years old)

Toddlers are busy, cute, and full of energy! If you see your grandchild often, they probably know you well and greet you with big smiles and happy squeals. Isn’t being a grandma the best?

Even though toddlers seem much more grown-up than infants, you can still bond in many of the same ways—like singing songs, playing games, and sharing cuddles. You can also try reading books together, giving positive words of encouragement, doing simple crafts, and spending one-on-one time just having fun.

Bonding with preschool grandkids (3 to 5 years old)

Can you believe your grandchild is already a preschooler? Time really flies! At this age, they probably see you as one of their favorite people. You bring them joy, comfort, and lots of smiles.

By now, they have their own personality and interests. Use those special traits to grow even closer. Keep doing the things you’ve always done, but now start asking them more questions about what they like. You can also give them small, fun jobs to help them feel confident and more independent.

This is the golden age of imagination. Build pillow forts, invent superhero stories, or teach them your classic dance moves. Use playtime to share values—kindness, patience, curiosity—without the lecture.

Bonding with grade schoolers (6 to 12 years old)

A 6-year-old and a 12-year-old are very different, but the ways you bond with them can be similar. Kids in this age group are learning a lot, making new friends, and becoming more independent. That’s why it’s important to follow their lead and show interest in what they enjoy.

Do they love a certain sport or team? Watch a game together and ask questions about it. If they like baking or cooking, see if you can join them in the kitchen. Maybe your granddaughter has a crush on a movie star—sounds like a great reason for a movie night!

Want to stay relevant? Ask about their video games, TikToks (even if you don’t get it), and favorite shows. Share stories about “when you were their age” to create connection—not comparison.

Bonding with teenage grandkids (13 to 18 years old)

Teen years can be tricky, but they can also be a wonderful time to grow closer. Sure, there may be mood swings, pimples, and some awkward moments—but don’t worry. You can still connect in meaningful ways.

They might roll their eyes, but they do want to be understood. Ask open-ended questions. Offer your perspective only when invited. Surprise them with something thoughtful—like a handwritten note or their favorite snack.

One idea is to share what your teen years were like. Let your grandchild know you understand what they might be going through. Just be careful not to lecture or talk down to them—it can hurt the special bond you’ve built.

Listening and being kind will go a long way.

Bonding with adult grandkids (18 and up)

Your grandbaby isn’t a baby anymore—they’re a grown-up now! Maybe they’re in college, working full-time, or doing both while figuring out their future. No matter where life takes them, be there to support and cheer them on.

At this stage, you’re less caregiver, more coach. Offer life advice without strings. Share your career wins and your mistakes. Invite them into your world—financial planning, investing, travel tips—they’re listening more than you think.

Because of the strong bond you’ve built over the years, your grandchild might now come to you for advice about jobs, dating, marriage, or even raising kids of their own.

And speaking of babies—if your grandchild has a child, guess what? You’re now a great-grandma! How exciting! That means you get to share your love and wisdom with the next generation, too.

I hope these ideas for bonding with your grandkids help you as much as they’ve helped me. Do you have any favorite ways to connect that I didn’t mention? I’d love to hear about them. Talk to you soon!

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