One of the hardest things for many grandmas is getting their teenage grandkids to visit. These days, teens are so busy with school, sports, friends, and activities—it’s tough to get on their schedule!
So, what’s a loving grandma to do?
This fun little list was actually inspired by Rose (you’ll see her in #1!). The truth is, the best way to keep your teenage grandkids close is to be there for them, stay open-minded, and love them just as they are—without smothering.
But let’s be honest… we’re not too old to use a little creativity (and maybe a tiny bit of trickery). Here’s a list of playful ideas—some sweet, some sneaky, and some just plain silly—that might help bring those teens around more often.
1. The Unsigned Check Trick
This one came from sweet Rose, and we couldn’t stop laughing. She said, “Want to see the grandkids? Send them a check—but don’t sign it!”
They’ll show up real quick! Honestly, Rose might be onto something here.
Read Also: 32 Tips if You Rarely (Or Never) See Your Grandkids
2. The Mystery Gift
Snap a photo of a wrapped present sitting on your table. Send it to your grandchild and say, “It’s something you’ve always wanted!”
But here’s the twist—they have to visit you to open it. Curiosity might just bring them to your door.
3. The “Oops!” Pocket Dial
You know those times your phone accidentally calls someone from your pocket?
Well, here’s the plan: Pretend to “pocket dial” your grandchild while talking (loudly) about something fun or exciting happening at your house.
If they hear something interesting, their curiosity might lead them straight to you!
4. The “Tech Emergency”
Pretend you’re having a little trouble with your computer or phone—something only a smart teenager could fix.
Say something like, “I think I have a virus… or maybe my phone just hates me!”
It’s a silly trick, but it gives them a reason to stop by—and hey, teens love feeling helpful!
5. A Famous Invite
Know who your grandchild follows online? Find a fun influencer they like and ask them to send a video shout-out!
With websites like Cameo, you can get a celebrity to say, “Hey! Go visit your grandma already!”
It’s playful, surprising, and sure to make them smile.
6. The Snack Box Tease
Send a little care package with all their favorite treats… well, almost all. Leave out one very important item and include a note: “The last snack is waiting for you at Grandma’s!”
That missing bite might be just the thing to get them through your door.
7. Movie Marathon Magic
Plan a movie day with all their favorite films—maybe even the whole series!
Add fun snacks and decorations to match the theme. (Now excuse me while I figure out the perfect Star Wars snacks for all nine movies!)
8. The Can’t-Say-No Challenge
Create a fun challenge they won’t be able to resist—like solving a riddle, breaking a silly record, or completing a scavenger hunt.
They can do most of it from home… but make sure the final clue or prize is waiting at your house. That’s when the real fun begins!
9. The Favorite Food Trick
You already know their favorite food. Make it, snap a mouthwatering photo (with great lighting, of course!), and send it to them.
Want to be extra sneaky? Use an old photo of the dish… and when they show up, hand them an apron and say, “Let’s cook it together!” (Too much? Maybe. But also… maybe not.)
10. The Pokémon GO Trick
This one’s perfect if your grandkids love playing Pokémon GO—and if you sort of know how it works! Tell them you spotted a super rare Pokémon in your backyard, and the only way to catch it… is to come visit. Even if they don’t believe you, they might just come check it out (just in case!).
11. Grandchild’s Day Out
Plan a special day just for them—filled with their favorite places, snacks, and fun. But there’s one catch: they have to beat you in a very serious game of rock-paper-scissors-lizard-Spock! (It’s okay if you don’t know how to play—we can pretend.)
12. Late-Night Snacks & Secrets
Invite them to join your top-secret “Grandparent’s Midnight Feast Club.” Tell them it’s an exclusive group that meets late at night for snacks, laughs, and fun talks. Since it’s so late, they’ll probably want to stay over—so get the guest room ready!
13. The “Grandma’s Going Viral” Trick
Try your best at a popular TikTok dance or challenge—don’t worry if it’s a little silly! Then “accidentally” send the video to your grandchild and say, “Help! I want to go viral, but I think I need some serious help!”
Chances are, they’ll come running to save your internet reputation (and maybe teach you the right moves too).
14. The “I Need a Taste Tester” Trick
Text your grandchild: “I just baked something amazing, but I need a brave taste tester. You up for the job?”
Whether it’s cookies, brownies, or a new recipe gone slightly wrong, they’ll be curious—and probably hungry enough—to swing by and help out.
15. The “Forgotten Belonging” Sneak
“Hey honey, I found something that I think belongs to you.”
Even if it doesn’t, pick something small they might miss—like a hoodie, phone charger, or favorite water bottle.
Then casually say, “I’ll keep it safe here… unless you want to come grab it!”
I’d love to hear from you—what fun tricks or sweet ideas do you use to get your teenage grandkids to visit? I hope this list brought a smile to your face or gave you a little spark of inspiration. You’re doing an amazing job, my fellow Grandma. Keep being your wonderful self, and let’s chat again soon!
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I love the chrck idea but they will tobably just say can you just venmo me the miney?
You never know! 😁