Do you remember when doing the right thing was just expected? When telling the truth and keeping your promises was part of growing up? These days, things move fast—and sometimes kids miss out on life lessons like integrity.
But guess what? Grandparents still have a special kind of magic. We can teach our grandkids values in small, loving ways. Integrity means doing the right thing, even when nobody else is around. And you can help your grandchild grow into someone who’s honest, kind, and trustworthy—just by being yourself.
Here are 12 simple (but powerful) ways to pass on the gift of integrity.
1. Model Honesty Every Day
Kids are always watching. If you accidentally get too much change at the store and return it, they’ll notice. If you say you’ll call someone and follow through, they’ll see that too.
Say this:
“Oops, they gave me $5 too much. Let’s go give it back. It’s the honest thing to do.”
2. Share “Right vs. Easy” Stories from Your Past
Tell them about a time you chose to do the right thing, even when it was hard. Maybe you told the truth and got in trouble. Maybe you stood up for someone who needed help. Real stories make a big impact.
Example:
“One time in school, I found a wallet with money inside. I gave it to the teacher. I was scared someone would think I took it—but I knew doing the right thing was more important.”
3. Praise Truth-Telling, Even When It’s Tough
If your grandchild tells you something they did wrong, don’t jump straight to punishment. First, thank them for being honest. That teaches them that truth matters more than perfection.
Say this:
“I’m proud of you for telling the truth, even though it was hard. That takes courage.”
4. Teach Them to Return What Isn’t Theirs
Found a toy at the park? Extra snacks in the lunch bag? These little moments are great ways to talk about honesty and fairness.
Do this:
Say, “Let’s bring it to the lost and found. Someone’s probably looking for it.”
5. Play “What Would You Do?” Scenarios
Make up fun little stories during dinner or in the car. Ask questions like, “What would you do if you saw your friend cheating on a test?” Talk through the answers together.
Say this:
“There’s no wrong answer—let’s just talk about it and see how you’d handle it.”
6. Watch Movies That Highlight Integrity
Movies are full of choices, heroes, and mistakes. After the movie, ask questions like, “What would you have done?” or “Did the character make a good choice?”
Movie tip:
Try Moana, The Lion King, or Akeelah and the Bee—they all have great integrity lessons.
7. Encourage Speaking Up for Others
Talk about standing up for someone who’s being teased or left out. Let your grandchild know that speaking up is brave and kind.
Say this:
“If you ever see someone being picked on, you can help by being their friend or telling a grown-up.”
8. Let Them See You Apologize
Nobody’s perfect—not even Grandma! If you mess up, say sorry. That shows your grandchild that being honest includes admitting when we’re wrong.
Say this:
“I didn’t mean to snap at you earlier. I was grumpy, and I’m sorry. I love you.”
9. Create a Family Motto About Doing What’s Right
Come up with a simple saying you both remember. You can put it on a sticky note or say it together before they leave your house.
Example motto:
“In our family, we do what’s right—even when it’s hard.”
10. Read Books with Integrity Themes
Books are powerful teachers. Look for stories about telling the truth, standing up for others, or making hard choices.
Great picks:
The Empty Pot by Demi or Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes.
11. Volunteer Together
Helping others teaches kids that life isn’t just about us. Whether you donate toys, clean up a park, or visit a neighbor, it all counts.
Say this:
“Let’s do something kind for someone else today. Giving back feels good.”
12. Remind Them That Integrity Builds Trust
Explain that people trust those who do the right thing. When we’re honest and kind, people know they can count on us.
Say this:
“Every time you tell the truth or keep your word, you’re showing people they can trust you. That’s a big deal.”
Final Thought
Dear Grandma, you don’t need fancy lessons or perfect words to teach your grandkids about integrity. You just need to keep showing up, loving well, and living out the values that matter. Your quiet example is more powerful than any lecture. One day, your grandchild will remember these moments—and carry them forward to the next generation.
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! ❤️