Everything You Need To Know About Grandparents Day 2022

They pick up your kids from school. They shower them with love and listen to their stories. They even remember how each grandchild prefers their PB&J (no crusts, extra jelly, etc). Grandparents truly are a gift in so many ways. So to show your appreciation to the ‘rents for everything that they do on the daily, you should know when National Grandparents Day 2022 is, so that you can set the day aside to celebrate them.

What day is Grandparents Day 2022?

Unlike other holidays (think National Guacamole Day, for example), National Grandparents Day is an actual official national holiday. It falls on the first Sunday after Labor Day, which means that it never has a locked-in calendar date, because, well, neither does Labor Day. This year, Grandparents Day is on Sunday, September 11. And while that might be a solemn day for so many, celebrating grandparents on that day is a reminder that love still survives.

What’s the origin of Grandparents Day?

It was Marian McQuade, an advocate for elderly people, who was the impetus for Grandparents Day. McQuade, a mother of 15 (yes, 15 children), petitioned not just governors, but Congressional members and even presidents to designate a day that would honor grandparents everywhere, according to the L.A. Times. Eventually, National Grandparents Day was passed by Congress in 1978, and a year later, President Jimmy Carter signed it into law.

The goal of National Grandparents Day wasn’t for commercial purposes, though. During her volunteer work, McQuade saw how many nursing home residents didn’t get visits from their families. She wanted National Grandparents Day to serve as a time for families to celebrate the seniors in their lives by spending quality time together, according to ABC 7 News.

How to celebrate Grandparents Day

Sure, you could spring for a fancy meal and some presents for the grandparents, but sometimes, a handmade card and a meal around the table — and some non-bubble wrapped hugs, too — is even more meaningful. You can even have your kids interview their grandparents and ask them questions about their own childhood. You could have them craft something fun together, cook in the kitchen, or put on a talent show where Grandma and Grandpa are the guests of honor.

What to get Grandma and Grandpa for Grandparents Day

Of course, while some cuddles and conversation are what practically every grandparent wants, there’s nothing wrong with a little wrapped present, too. Sure, you can frame a photo of the grandkids and gift it to the ‘rents, or you could look to their hobbies as a jumping off point for present ideas. Perhaps some sort of baking essential for Grandma or a car-themed gift for the Grandpa who digs long drives in his Chevy. Even a “World’s Best Grandma/Grandpa” mug, a cozy throw for their couch, or a massager to help soothe stiff joints would all be appropriate presents.

What to write in a Grandparents Day card

You found the perfect card to give the grandparents for their special day. Still, you might be stumped as to how to personalize the card instead of simply signing it, “Love, Me.” When the words fail (but love is flowing), take some inspo below on what to write in a card for Grandparents Day:

• I’m so happy you’re my Grandma/Grandpa.
• You make every day so special.
• I’ve learned so much from you.
• I love spending time with you.
• Thanks for all the ways you show your love to me.
• Thanks for your love, wisdom, and kindness.
• I love our special times together.
• Happy Grandparents Day to my biggest supporters.
• Sending you so much love on Grandparents Day!
• Thank you for sharing your stories with me. Happy Grandparents Day!
• I’m the luckiest grandkid because I have you as my grandparents. I love you!
• Thank you for everything you’ve taught me.
• You’re my hero, Grandma/Grandpa.
• I’m so grateful that I have the best role models. Happy Grandparents Day!
• We’ve had so many great memories, and I can’t wait to make more with you!

On National Grandparents Day (and every day), be sure to make your child’s grandparents and other important seniors in your lives feel special. It doesn’t have to be grandiose, because with grandparents, even the smallest gestures mean the most when they come from the heart.