12 grandparents day crafts Kids Can Make with Love

grandparents day crafts

Grandparents Day is the perfect opportunity to slow down, get creative, and make something meaningful with the little ones. I love crafts that turn simple supplies into keepsakes grandparents can treasure for years, whether it is a handmade card, a colorful flower, or a sweet little handprint.

These 12 Grandparents Day crafts are designed for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children, with practical instructions, affordable supplies, and thoughtful ways to personalize each project. Some are wonderfully simple for little hands, while others offer opportunities for older kids to practice cutting, painting, and assembling.

The best part? You do not need an elaborate craft room or expensive materials. A few basic supplies, a little preparation, and some creativity are all you need to make something special.

1. Handprint Flower Bouquet

Description

Turn tiny handprints into a colorful flower bouquet that grandparents can display long after Grandparents Day. This cheerful keepsake is easy to personalize with different paint colors, handmade stems, and a sweet message. It is especially lovely for toddlers and preschoolers who enjoy painting and making something with their own hands.

What It Is

A handmade bouquet featuring painted handprint flowers, paper stems, and a personalized message.

Supplies and Budget

• White cardstock or construction paper
• Washable tempera paint
• Green markers or crayons
• Paintbrush, scissors, and glue
• Ribbon (optional)

Estimated budget: $3–$8, depending on what you already have.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Paint your child’s palm and fingers with washable paint, then press their hand onto cardstock.
2. Repeat with different colors, leaving enough space between each print.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely before adding green stems and leaves.
4. Cut around the handprints if you want separate flowers, or leave them on the original sheet.
5. Arrange the flowers into a bouquet and add a handwritten Grandparents Day message.

DIY Tip

Use a thin layer of paint. Too much paint makes the fingers blur together. Keep a damp cloth nearby and gently guide little hands onto the paper without sliding them.

2. Personalized Grandparent Day Card

Description

Create a heartfelt card with colorful paper, simple decorations, and a message written especially for Grandma or Grandpa. This project works beautifully for children of different ages because younger kids can decorate the cover while older children write their own messages and add personal details.

What It Is

A folded greeting card featuring handmade decorations and a personal message.

Supplies and Budget

• Cardstock or blank greeting cards
• Washable markers or crayons
• Glue stick
• Stickers, buttons, or paper shapes
• Scissors

Estimated budget: $2–$6.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Fold a piece of cardstock in half to create the card.
2. Let your child decorate the front with hearts, flowers, or colorful drawings.
3. Help younger children write a simple message, such as “I love you, Grandma!”
4. Invite older kids to include a favorite memory or something they love doing with their grandparents.
5. Add the child’s name and the date inside the card.

DIY Tip

Keep the inside relatively simple so the message stands out. If using buttons or other small decorations, reserve them for older children and supervise closely.

3. Salt Dough Keepsake Ornaments

Description

Make a lasting keepsake with homemade salt dough and your child’s handprint or a simple heart shape. These ornaments are inexpensive, easy to customize, and lovely for grandparents to hang on a tree or display in a special place throughout the year.

What It Is

A small, hardened dough ornament personalized with a child’s handprint, name, or date.

Supplies and Budget

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup salt
• About ½ cup water
• Rolling pin and cookie cutter
• Drinking straw
• Acrylic paint and ribbon

Estimated budget: $3–$8.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Mix flour and salt, then gradually add water until a firm dough forms.
2. Knead until smooth and roll to about ¼ inch thick.
3. Press a child’s hand into the dough or cut out a heart shape.
4. Use a straw to make a hole near the top for hanging.
5. Bake at 200°F (about 95°C) until completely dry, checking regularly. Cool, paint, and add ribbon.

DIY Tip

Thicker ornaments take longer to dry and may crack. Keep the dough evenly rolled, and have an adult handle the oven. Seal the finished ornament with a suitable clear craft sealer if desired.

4. DIY Photo Frame with Paper Flowers

Description

Give a favorite family photo a handmade home with a decorated paper frame. Children can choose cheerful colors and create simple flowers, making this a wonderful craft for displaying a special memory with Grandma or Grandpa.

What It Is

A personalized photo frame decorated with paper flowers and a favorite family picture.

Supplies and Budget

• Cardboard or a ready-made plain frame
• Colored construction paper
• Glue stick
• Scissors
• Family photo
• Markers

Estimated budget: $3–$10.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Cut two matching cardboard rectangles and cut a window in the center of one.
2. Glue the sides and bottom together, leaving the top open for the photo.
3. Cut simple flower shapes from colored paper.
4. Let your child arrange and glue the flowers around the frame.
5. Add a short message, insert the photo, and attach a cardboard stand.

DIY Tip

Use lightweight paper decorations so the frame does not become too heavy. Test the photo opening before decorating, and keep the bottom edge open until the picture is inserted.

5. Painted Rock Garden Keepsakes

Description

Transform smooth stones into colorful garden keepsakes with painted flowers, hearts, or little messages. This project is a lovely choice for children who enjoy painting and gives grandparents a cheerful decoration for a flowerpot, garden shelf, or windowsill.

What It Is

A hand-painted stone personalized as a small decorative gift.

Supplies and Budget

• Smooth, clean stones
• Acrylic craft paint
• Paintbrushes
• Paint pens or markers
• Clear outdoor sealer (optional)

Estimated budget: $3–$8.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Wash the stones and let them dry completely.
2. Paint a solid base color and allow it to dry.
3. Add flowers, hearts, dots, or a short message.
4. Let the paint dry fully before adding any additional details.
5. Have an adult apply a suitable clear sealer if the stone will be displayed outdoors.

DIY Tip

Choose stones with a fairly flat surface. Very rough stones make it difficult for young children to paint clear shapes or write readable messages.

6. Grandparents Day Paper Plate Wreath

Description

Create a colorful wreath using an ordinary paper plate and simple paper decorations. Children can personalize it with flowers, hearts, and family photos, turning an everyday craft supply into a cheerful decoration for a grandparent’s door or wall.

What It Is

A lightweight decorative wreath made from a paper plate with a cutout center.

Supplies and Budget

• Paper plate
• Colored paper
• Child-safe scissors
• Glue stick
• Markers and ribbon

Estimated budget: $2–$6.

Tutorial how to make:

1. An adult cuts out the center of the paper plate, leaving a circular rim.
2. Cut flowers, hearts, or leaves from colored paper.
3. Let your child arrange the shapes around the rim before gluing.
4. Add a message such as “We love you, Grandma!”
5. Attach a ribbon loop to the back for hanging.

DIY Tip

Do not overload the plate with heavy decorations. A simple arrangement of lightweight paper shapes keeps the wreath from bending.

7. Handprint Butterfly Craft

Description

Turn little handprints into colorful butterfly wings for a sweet Grandparents Day keepsake. This simple paper craft combines painting and drawing, making it a lovely activity for preschoolers who enjoy bright colors and creating pictures of their own.

What It Is

A butterfly made from two painted handprints, a paper body, and handmade antennae.

Supplies and Budget

• White cardstock
• Washable paint
• Paintbrush
• Colored paper
• Glue and markers

Estimated budget: $3–$7.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Paint one hand and press it onto cardstock, then repeat for the other hand.
2. Position the prints so the palms meet in the middle and the fingers point outward.
3. Allow the paint to dry before adding a paper body between the wings.
4. Draw antennae and decorate the wings with dots or small hearts.
5. Write the child’s name and the date underneath.

DIY Tip

Make the handprints close together but not overlapping. This gives the butterfly a clear body and helps the wings look balanced.

8. Decorated Flowerpot for Grandma

Description

Make a practical gift by decorating a small flowerpot with colorful patterns and a cheerful message. Children can paint dots, stripes, or simple flowers, while adults help prepare the pot and choose a plant that is suitable for the recipient.

What It Is

A personalized flowerpot that can hold a small plant or a handful of handmade paper flowers.

Supplies and Budget

• Small terracotta pot
• Acrylic craft paint
• Paintbrushes
• Paint pens
• Small plant or potting soil

Estimated budget: $5–$12.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Wipe the pot clean and let it dry.
2. Paint a base color and allow it to dry.
3. Add dots, hearts, flowers, or the grandparent’s name.
4. Let the decorations dry completely.
5. Have an adult add a plant and place a saucer underneath the pot.

DIY Tip

Paint the outside of the pot rather than the inside where soil and water will sit. Choose a plant that matches the grandparent’s light and watering conditions.

9. Homemade Grandparents Day Bookmark

Description

Create a thoughtful bookmark for grandparents who enjoy reading. This easy paper craft is perfect for preschoolers and older children, and it can be personalized with favorite colors, drawings, or a special message that makes every reading session feel a little more meaningful.

What It Is

A handmade bookmark decorated with drawings, paper shapes, and a ribbon.

Supplies and Budget

• Cardstock
• Markers or crayons
• Ruler and scissors
• Hole punch
• Ribbon
• Clear contact paper (optional)

Estimated budget: $2–$5.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Cut cardstock into a rectangle approximately 2 by 6 inches.
2. Let your child decorate both sides with drawings or paper shapes.
3. Write a message such as “You make my story special.”
4. Punch a hole near the top and thread a ribbon through it.
5. Cover with clear contact paper if you want extra durability.

DIY Tip

Keep decorations flat so the bookmark slides easily between book pages. Avoid thick buttons or bulky embellishments that could damage the pages.

10. Grandparents Day Memory Jar

Description

Fill a decorated jar with little notes about favorite memories, shared activities, and reasons a child loves their grandparents. It is a meaningful gift that grandparents can open whenever they want a reminder of the special moments they share with their family.

What It Is

A decorated container filled with handwritten or dictated memory notes.

Supplies and Budget

• Clean jar or small container
• Paper strips
• Markers
• Ribbon or string
• Stickers and glue

Estimated budget: $3–$8.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Clean and dry a jar, removing any sharp edges or loose labels.
2. Decorate the outside with a ribbon, paper hearts, or a handmade label.
3. Ask your child about favorite memories with their grandparents.
4. Write each memory on a separate paper strip and fold it gently.
5. Place the notes inside and add a label explaining the gift.

DIY Tip

For toddlers, write down their exact words rather than correcting their answers. Those little expressions often make the gift especially personal.

11. DIY Paper Plate Grandparent Portrait

Description

Make a playful portrait of Grandma or Grandpa using a paper plate, colored paper, and markers. Children can choose the hairstyle, clothing colors, and facial features, creating a funny or sweet handmade picture that celebrates someone they love.

What It Is

A paper plate portrait decorated with a child’s drawing and paper details.

Supplies and Budget

• Paper plate
• Colored construction paper
• Markers or crayons
• Glue stick
• Child-safe scissors

Estimated budget: $2–$6.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Give your child a paper plate to use as the face.
2. Draw eyes, a nose, and a mouth with markers.
3. Cut paper shapes for hair, glasses, or a favorite hairstyle.
4. Glue the pieces onto the plate and add clothing details.
5. Write the grandparent’s name on the back and display the portrait.

DIY Tip

Let children create their own interpretation instead of aiming for a perfect likeness. For younger kids, prepare larger paper shapes that are easier to handle.

12. Grandparents Day Coupon Book

Description

Create a handmade coupon book filled with thoughtful little promises, such as a big hug, a story together, or help watering the plants. This craft encourages children to think about meaningful ways to spend time with their grandparents.

What It Is

A small booklet of personalized coupons for shared activities and kind gestures.

Supplies and Budget

• Colored paper or cardstock
• Markers and crayons
• Ruler and scissors
• Hole punch
• Ribbon or string

Estimated budget: $2–$5.

Tutorial how to make:

1. Cut several pieces of paper into equal-sized rectangles.
2. Ask your child to choose simple activities they can genuinely do.
3. Write one activity on each page, such as “One story together” or “A big hug.”
4. Decorate each coupon with drawings and colorful borders.
5. Stack the pages, punch two holes, and tie them together with ribbon.

DIY Tip

Choose realistic promises that fit the child’s age and schedule. Avoid coupons that depend on expensive outings or activities the grandparent may not enjoy.

FAQ SECTION

What are the easiest Grandparents Day crafts for toddlers?

Handprint flowers, paper plate portraits, and decorated cards are excellent choices. They require simple materials and allow toddlers to participate through painting, sticking, and drawing. An adult should handle scissors and any small decorations.

What can preschoolers make for Grandparents Day?

Preschoolers can create bookmarks, paper plate wreaths, handprint butterflies, and personalized flowerpots. Choose projects with a few clear steps, and let children make their own color and decoration choices.

What is a meaningful handmade gift for grandparents?

A handmade gift that reflects a shared memory is especially thoughtful. A memory jar, photo frame, or personalized coupon book can celebrate the relationship between a child and their grandparents.

How can I make Grandparents Day crafts more affordable?

Use supplies you already have at home, such as cardboard, paper scraps, clean jars, and leftover ribbon. Reusing materials keeps costs low while giving children plenty of opportunities to be creative.

When should children make their Grandparents Day gifts?

Simple paper crafts can usually be completed in one afternoon. Projects involving paint, dough, or multiple layers may need additional drying time, so it is helpful to start a few days before the celebration.

How can I make a craft suitable for different ages?

Prepare the materials according to each child’s abilities. Toddlers can paint and place large shapes, preschoolers can practice simple cutting with supervision, and older children can write messages or complete more detailed decorations.

RELATED CONTENT

• Easy Handprint Crafts for Kids
• Homemade Mother’s Day Gifts for Kids
• Simple Father’s Day Crafts for Preschoolers
• DIY Keepsake Crafts for Family Memories
• Fun Art and Craft Ideas for Kids
• Easy Seasonal Crafts for Toddlers

CLOSING

I hope these 12 Grandparents Day crafts have inspired you to create something special with your little ones. Whether you choose a colorful handprint bouquet, a personalized photo frame, or a jar filled with sweet memories, each project offers a lovely way to celebrate the people who mean so much to your family.

Remember, handmade gifts do not need to look perfect to be meaningful. The little fingerprints, uneven paper edges, and funny drawings are often what make them worth keeping. Let your children take the lead, enjoy the creative process, and make something that feels personal to your family.

I would love to know which craft you decide to try! Pick your favorite idea, gather your supplies, and enjoy making a heartfelt gift together. If you create one of these projects, share your results and inspire other families to make their own Grandparents Day memories.