Grandparent's Day

Grandparents' Day History

Grandparents Day is an annual observance that reflects on the immense contributions of grandparents in the lives of their grandchildren and society as a whole. This special day exists to give families the opportunity to express admiration and respect to their grandparents, acknowledge their wisdom and heritage, while fostering intergenerational connections. This occasion not only strengthens the bond within the family unit but also serves as a reminder for younger generations to cherish the experiences and guidance of their elders.

In Canada, Grandparents Day is becoming increasingly significant due to the growing number of seniors in the demographic, as well as the notable role that grandparents play in Canadian households and communities. While the concept of Grandparents Day originated in the United States in the early 1970s, a private member's bill was later introduced by Canadian Member of Parliament Harvie Andre in the House of Commons in 1995, which led to the eventual recognition of this observance.

Today, Grandparents Day is celebrated in Canada by families and communities in various ways. Activities include spending time together with grandparents, sharing stories from the past, and enjoying traditional family recipes. Schools and care facilities may also organize special events and activities to mark the occasion. Canadian Grandparents Day falls on the second Sunday of September each year, aligning with both the United States and several other countries worldwide. This yearly observance provides a unique opportunity to acknowledge grandparents for the profound impact they have on the lives of their grandchildren and society at large.

Grandparent's Day facts

• Today, grandparents continue serving as quiet heroes in every corner of our country. From reading bedtime stories to their grandchildren to volunteering in their communities to acting as primary caregivers, they work hard each and every day while showing love and kindness to their families and those around them. Let us continue to show them the same, and let us forever honor their tremendous efforts to nurture, guide, and drive us in all we do. - US President Barack Obama, Presidential Proclamation, September 11, 2015
• The names for grandparents vary greatly among different cultures, anything from Nana, Grandpa, Grandma, to Abuela/Abuelo in Spanish, Nonna/Nonno in Italian, Oma/Opa in German, and Babushka/Dedushka in Russian.
• A 19-year long study in Berlin found that grandparents who provide occasional childcare live longer than those who do not.
• Canadians have one of the highest life expectancies globally, with an average of 82.3 years in 2021.
• According to Statistics Canada, about 62,000 (approximately 5.4 per cent) of all grandparents aged 45 and over looked after their grandchildren without the presence of the middle generation of parents.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Grandparent's Day

Top things to do in Canada for Grandparent's Day

• Adopt-a-grandparent. By 2030, it is expected that 5.3 million elderly individuals will be living in nursing homes. Of these, approximately 60% of nursing home residents do not receive visitors. Nursing homes often have volunteer programs that match volunteers to residents. Volunteer in a local nursing home to adopt-a-grandparent. Spend the time making arts and crafts, reading or just talking.
• Take your grandparents out for a dinner or Broadway Show.
• Invite your grandparents over for a fun family game night. Choose board games or card games that are easy to learn and enjoyable for all ages.
• Make a special handmade gift for your grandparents, such as a photo album, a scrapbook or a piece of artwork. This will remind them of your love and appreciation every time they see it.