Drawing With Grandparents: An Easy Visit Activity
Looking for an easy activity for grandparents and grandkids? Drawing together is calm, cheap and bonding. Ideas for visits, video calls and gifts.
Drawing together is one of the easiest activities for grandparents and grandkids. It needs almost no supplies, works at any energy level, and creates keepsakes both generations treasure. Step-by-step drawing books make it simple, even for grandparents who "can't draw".
Grandparents often wonder what to do with grandkids beyond screens and snacks. Drawing is a perfect answer: calm, creative and full of conversation.
Why drawing works across generations
- Low energy. No running required.
- Equal footing. Everyone is learning together.
- Conversation. Drawing naturally leads to stories.
- Keepsakes. Drawings become precious memories.
Pets are a perfect subject
Many grandparents have pets, or remember pets from their childhood. How to Draw: Cartoon Cats & Dogs gives everyone a shared subject. Grandparents can tell stories about pets they had growing up while the kids draw. Draw grandma's cat, grandpa's dog, or the pet everyone wishes they had.
Drawing activities for visits
- Draw-off. Both draw the same lesson and compare (no judging!).
- Story time drawings. Grandparents tell a story; kids illustrate it.
- Family tree. Draw portraits of family members.
- Then and now. Grandparents draw their childhood home; kids draw theirs.
Long-distance drawing
- Video call drawing. Draw the same thing together over a call.
- Mail art. Send drawings back and forth.
- Book club. Both have the same drawing book and do a lesson each week.
See drawing to stay close to faraway family.
Grandparents who "can't draw"
Step-by-step lessons work for all ages. Many grandparents surprise themselves. And if their drawing is wobbly, the kids will love it even more. Read never too late: parents learning to draw with kids.
Questions parents ask
What are good activities for grandparents and grandkids?
Drawing together is simple, calm and creative. Step-by-step books, story drawings and family portraits are great options.
Can grandparents draw with grandkids over video call?
Yes. Pick the same drawing lesson and draw it together during the call, then hold up your results.
What if grandparents think they can't draw?
Step-by-step lessons make drawing easy for all ages, and kids love seeing grandparents try.
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Keep reading
- Siblings Drawing Together Without FightingSiblings fighting over crayons? Here's how to make drawing together peaceful and fun, with games, separate spaces and shared projects that work.
- Drawing as Communication: When Words Are HardWhen words are hard, pictures can speak. Learn how drawing helps children communicate ideas, needs and feelings, from toddlers to kids with speech delays.
- Collaborative Drawing Games for KidsCollaborative drawing games teach kids to share ideas, take turns and build on each other's work. Try these fun group drawing games at home or school.
- Set Up a Kids' Drawing Corner in Any Size HomeA kids' drawing corner doesn't need much space. Learn how to set one up in any home, with the right surface, light, storage and supplies.
