7 Ways to Include Grandparents to the School Community

Introduction

The life experience of grandparents and their cultural knowledge enrich a school community. Including grandparents in the school community is incredibly valuable.

A close relationship between the grandparent and the student and supporting that relationship can be very beneficial. One study shows that grandparents can positively impact their grandchildren’s lives and decisions to pursue higher education. To summarize, inclusivity benefits everyone:

• Family and community relationships strengthen as children sense that grandparents are valued members of society.
• Being included in the community can enrich the everyday life of a grandparent and be a source of joy.
• Grandparents enrich the school community with their source of knowledge, support, and advice.

Schools have many ways to facilitate, support, and strengthen the relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. Here are some practical approaches for grandparent engagement.

Host a Special Event for Grandparents

At Selwyn School in Copper Canyon, Texas, it has been a tradition to host a special event for grandparents called Grandparents’ Tea. This event is warm and welcoming for all grandparents, and it connects grandparents with their grandchildren in a unique way. The students have practiced memorable songs for their grandparents that they perform at the event. The event includes crafting and pictures. And, of course, the grandparents are served tea and cookies.

Invite a Grandparent to the Classroom

Grandparents are very capable and often love to volunteer. A grandparent can be a particular reader in the classroom. Or a grandparent may share their special knowledge or skill, such as storytelling, sewing or special knowledge about a subject. 

Offer Digital Participation

Many grandparents keep in touch with their grandchildren digitally via FaceTime or Zoom calls. Grandparents are not afraid of tech! If they live far away, offer them ways to connect via Zoom calls or FaceTime to participate in school events or guest speak in the classroom.

Share Pictures and Media

Provide an easy way for grandparents to receive photos from class trips and other social occasions. Ensure grandparents are included in any newsletter. 

Create a Group for Grandparents

Why not create a group for grandparents to connect and share insights? Some grandparents may be teachers, faculty members, or previous school students. The group can stay current by utilizing modern networking technologies: a group events calendar, RSVP system, photo galleries, social media feed, and document sharing.

Foster Inclusivity in Hiring

Not all children have a grandparent. Having older community members working or volunteering in a school is a valuable opportunity for children – and everyone – to interact and learn from members representing an older generation. This generation provides comfort and wisdom, adding a particular feel to the school community.

Connect with The Foster Grandparent Program

The Foster Grandparent Program, part of AmeriCorps Seniors, recruits and trains volunteers aged 55+ to mentor and tutor children with special needs in schools and community organizations. These seniors provide academic and emotional support, help with tasks and social skills, and receive ongoing supervision. This program fosters meaningful connections, benefiting both the seniors and the children.