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One of the best parts of being a grandparent is spending time with the grandkids. But finding toys and activities that keep everyone entertained—especially when you have grandchildren of different ages—can be a challenge!
Over the years, I’ve learned that some of the simplest toys and activities are the biggest hits. I’ve also discovered that what looks great in a store doesn’t always hold a child’s attention at home.
From toddlers to teenagers, I’ve had the opportunity to see which toys get played with again and again, which activities bring everyone together, and which purchases weren’t worth the money.
In this article, I’m sharing some of our family’s favorites, including building toys, games, outdoor activities, and creative projects. These are things we’ve actually used and enjoyed—not just products from a list.
My goal is to help other grandparents spend less time figuring out what to buy and more time enjoying their grandkids.
1. Picasso Tiles – A Favorite for Almost Every Age
Picasso Tiles have been one of the most successful toys in our house. What I love about them is how children of different ages find completely different ways to play with the same set.
The younger grandkids enjoy stacking the colorful magnetic tiles and building simple shapes, while the older kids get creative designing houses, towers, and more complicated structures.
They’re also a great activity when several grandchildren are visiting at once. Everyone can participate at their own level, and it’s fun to see what they come up with together.
Why I recommend them:
- Encourage creativity and problem-solving
- Work well for independent or group play
- Easy to put away and bring out again
- Offer different building challenges as children grow
Best for: Ages 3 and up, following the manufacturer’s age recommendations.
My grandparent tip: Start with a larger set if you regularly have several grandchildren visiting. Having enough pieces for everyone makes a big difference!
2. LEGO – A Classic That Never Gets Old
LEGO has been another favorite in our family, and it’s one of those toys that never seems to go out of style.
What makes LEGO so useful for grandparents is the variety of sets available for different ages and interests. Younger children can start with larger building bricks, while older kids can spend hours working on more challenging creations.
I’ve found that LEGO is especially good for those times when the grandkids want something to do independently, but it’s also a wonderful activity to enjoy together.
One of the things I appreciate most is that LEGO doesn’t have to be a one-time activity. The kids can take their creations apart and build something completely different the next time they visit.
Why I recommend LEGO:
- Encourages creativity, patience, and problem-solving
- Offers options for a wide range of ages
- Can be enjoyed independently or together
- Provides hours of screen-free entertainment
- Easy to expand a collection over time
Best for: Different age groups depending on the set. DUPLO is designed for younger children, while traditional LEGO sets are generally suited to older children.
My grandparent tip: Keep a container of assorted LEGO bricks available rather than relying entirely on themed sets. Sometimes the most creative projects happen when the kids build whatever they imagine!
LEGO Classic Creative Brick Box – Great for creative, open-ended building
LEGO DUPLO Classic Brick Box – A great option for younger grandchildren who are just beginning to build. The larger bricks are easier for little hands to handle and encourage imaginative play.
LEGO Creator Dragon – A Fun Building Challenge
For grandchildren who enjoy more detailed building projects, the LEGO Creator Dragon is an interesting option. It combines creative building with imaginative play, making it appealing to kids who enjoy dragons and fantasy adventures.
Check the recommended age on the specific set to make sure it’s appropriate for your grandchild.
3. UNO and Jenga – Simple Games That Bring Everyone Together
Sometimes the simplest games turn out to be the biggest hits. Two games that have consistently worked well with our grandchildren are UNO and Jenga.
UNO – A Family Favorite
UNO is one of those games we return to again and again. It’s easy to learn, doesn’t require a complicated setup, and is fun for both kids and adults.
I especially like that it gives everyone a chance to sit together, laugh, and enjoy a little friendly competition.
Why I recommend UNO:
- Inexpensive and easy to store
- Great for family game nights
- Helps younger players practice matching colors and numbers
- Easy to take on trips or vacations
Jenga – Fun for Different Ages
Jenga is another game that has been a success in our house. Younger children enjoy carefully removing the wooden blocks, while older kids and adults get surprisingly competitive trying to keep the tower standing.
It’s also a great game to pull out when the grandchildren have friends visiting.
Why I recommend Jenga:
- Simple rules and quick setup
- Encourages patience and hand-eye coordination
- Fun for kids and adults to play together
- Doesn’t require batteries or screens
Best for: UNO is generally recommended for ages 7 and up, and classic Jenga for ages 6 and up. Younger children may enjoy modified play with adult supervision.
My grandparent tip: Keep a few easy-to-learn games where everyone can reach them. Some of our best family moments happen when someone suggests a quick game and everyone joins in!
4. Outdoor Activities – Getting the Grandkids Outside
Getting the grandkids outside is one of my favorite ways to spend time together. I’ve found that having a few outdoor activities available makes it much easier to encourage them to put down their screens and enjoy some fresh air.
Over the years, we’ve discovered that you don’t need an elaborate backyard playground to keep kids entertained.
Basketball Hoop and Soccer Goal
These have been wonderful additions to our backyard, especially as the grandchildren have gotten older. Whether they’re practicing their skills, playing a game together, or just shooting baskets, they provide plenty of opportunities for active play.
Sidewalk Chalk
Sometimes the least expensive activities are the most successful. Sidewalk chalk is perfect for younger grandchildren who enjoy drawing, creating games, and decorating the driveway.
Trampoline
Our trampoline has been a big hit with the grandkids. It’s a great way for them to burn off energy and enjoy being outdoors. Trampolines do carry a significant injury risk, however, so adult supervision and appropriate safety precautions are essential. Pediatric safety experts generally recommend avoiding recreational trampolines.
Child-Sized Garden Tools
One of my favorite ways to involve younger grandchildren is to give them their own little garden tools. They love feeling included, whether they’re helping plant flowers, digging in the dirt, or watering the garden.
Why I recommend outdoor activities:
- Encourage physical activity and fresh air
- Offer alternatives to screen time
- Provide opportunities for grandchildren of different ages to play together
- Can be adapted to different interests and abilities
My grandparent tip: You don’t need to purchase everything at once. Start with a few simple outdoor activities and add things based on what your grandchildren actually enjoy.
5. Baking and Creative Activities – Making Memories Together
Not every favorite activity involves buying a toy. Some of the best times I’ve spent with my grandchildren have happened around the kitchen table.
Baking Together
Baking has been especially popular with my older grandchildren. Whether we’re making cookies, decorating treats, or trying a new recipe, it’s a wonderful opportunity to spend time together.
Younger children can help with simple tasks like stirring and decorating, while older kids can measure ingredients, follow recipes, and take on more responsibility.
Gingerbread House Competitions
One activity we’ve really enjoyed is having gingerbread house decorating competitions.
It’s fun to see how differently everyone approaches the same project. Some grandchildren carefully plan their designs, while others just have fun piling on the candy!
Simple Seasonal Crafts
We’ve also enjoyed making birdseed ornaments and other seasonal projects. These activities don’t have to be complicated or expensive to be memorable.
Why I love these activities:
- Encourage creativity and teamwork
- Can be adapted for different ages
- Give everyone an opportunity to participate
- Create family traditions and lasting memories
- Often use supplies you already have at home
My grandparent tip: Don’t worry about making everything perfect. Sometimes the messy cookies, crooked gingerbread houses, and unexpected results become the memories everyone talks about later!
Final Thoughts: It’s About Spending Time Together
Over the years, I’ve learned that the best toys and activities aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones. They’re the ones that bring the grandchildren together, encourage creativity, and give us opportunities to spend time with each other.
Some of our favorites, like LEGO, Picasso Tiles, UNO, and Jenga, have provided hours of entertainment. Others, like baking, gardening, and playing outside, have helped us create wonderful family memories.
Every grandchild is different, and what works for one may not interest another. My advice is to start with a few simple activities, pay attention to what your grandchildren enjoy, and build from there.
After all, being a practical grandparent isn’t about having everything. It’s about making the most of the time we spend together.
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