Being a grandparent is a special job. You get to cheer them on, build memories, and share wisdom they’ll carry forever.
But how can you “spoil” your grandkids without turning them into little divas or leaving their parents with sugar-filled tornadoes?
The answer: spoil them with love, time, and values—not just stuff. Here are 17 ways to love them BIG… while helping them grow strong, kind, and confident:
1. Bake Together and Let Them Lead
Baking is more than mixing dough—it’s a chance to teach patience, math, and following directions. Let your grandkids pick the recipe, crack the eggs, and even mess up. Laugh through the flour storms. They’ll learn that mistakes are part of the fun and feel proud they created something from scratch.
2. Create a “Grandma & Me” Tradition
Simple rituals, like Friday night board games or Sunday morning muffins, create strong roots. These routines give grandkids something to look forward to and remind them that time with you is steady and special—even when life gets busy.
3. Surprise Them with a “Yes Day” (With Limits)
Once in a while, say “yes” to their fun (and safe) ideas—like having a picnic in the living room or wearing mix-matched clothes all day. Saying yes within boundaries helps them feel heard and valued without giving in to every whim.
Read Also: How to Have a “Yes Day” With Your Grandchild—And Make It One They’ll Never Forget)
4. Gift Experiences Instead of More Toys
Rather than buying another gadget or doll, take them on a mini adventure—like a trip to the zoo, a pottery class, or ice cream and people-watching at the park. These moments stick with them longer than any toy and encourage curiosity about the world.
Read Also: 12 Magical Places You Won’t Believe Are Totally Free to Take Your Grandkids
5. Tell Stories From Your Childhood
Sharing how you grew up—your silly moments, hard lessons, or big wins—makes you feel real and relatable. It also gives them courage to face their own struggles. Your stories can teach problem-solving, humor, and resilience in a way no lecture can.
6. Write Letters or Share a “Memory Book”
Leave little notes in their backpack or start a scrapbook together with pictures, drawings, and memories. This helps them express feelings, value family history, and gives you both something to treasure as they grow.
7. Let Them Help You with Real Tasks
Kids feel proud when they’re trusted with “grown-up” jobs like folding towels, watering plants, or peeling carrots. These simple acts teach responsibility, teamwork, and the satisfaction of pitching in—plus, it’s time together.
8. Teach Them a Life Skill
Use your time together to pass down something useful. It could be sewing a button, planting a garden, cooking from scratch, or balancing a piggy bank. You’re not just filling time—you’re filling their toolbox for the future.
9. Praise Their Effort More Than the Outcome
Instead of saying, “You’re so smart,” say, “I love how hard you worked on that puzzle!” Focusing on effort builds a growth mindset, which helps them stay confident and persistent when things get tough.
Read Also: 20 Toxic Phrases That Could Secretly Damage Your Grandkids’ Confidence—And What To Say Instead
10. Give Them Your Undivided Attention
When they talk to you, pause what you’re doing and listen—really listen. Put away your phone and look them in the eyes. This simple act tells them, “You matter to me.” That’s a kind of love that money can’t buy.
11. Read Aloud and Talk About the Story
Reading together is more than fun—it builds their imagination and helps them understand feelings, choices, and consequences. Ask questions like, “What would you have done?” or “Why do you think that character was sad?”
12. Share Your Faith or Values in Gentle Ways
Whether it’s kindness, honesty, or spiritual beliefs, share what guides your heart. Use everyday moments—like a beautiful sunset or a kind act—to talk about things that matter. Keep it open, curious, and loving.
13. Be Their Safe Place to Feel All Feelings
Sometimes kids just need someone who won’t judge them. Let them cry, shout, or even be silly without rushing to fix it. Tell them it’s okay to feel all kinds of things—and that you’re here no matter what.
14. Take Real Interest in What They Love
Whether it’s slime, superheroes, bugs, or ballet—ask questions and let them teach you. When you get excited about what excites them, it shows respect. And it builds trust and connection, even across generations.
15. Celebrate the Small Wins and Everyday Moments
Losing a tooth? Learning to tie shoes? Drawing a funny picture? Cheer them on. Life isn’t all about big wins—it’s the little things that shape their sense of pride and progress.
16. Set Loving Boundaries and Stick to Them
Kids feel safe when they know the rules. Saying “no” to extra candy or too much screen time may not make you the hero right away—but it teaches self-control and that love means doing what’s best, not what’s easiest.
17. Practice Generosity Together
Help them make cards for a neighbor, donate old toys, or cook for someone in need. When you model giving, you plant seeds of kindness that can grow for life. And they learn that “spoiling” others with love feels even better.
Final Thoughts
Spoiling your grandkids doesn’t mean giving them everything they ask for. It means giving them everything they need—love, time, attention, and guidance. Those are the things that never break, never run out, and stay in their hearts forever.
Love Being a Grandma?
Join 2,400+ grandmas who wake up to a cheerful, uplifting email made just for you. It’s full of heart, sprinkled with fun, and always free. Start your mornings with a smile—sign up below! ❤️