This week, we’re celebrating Grandparents Week at Montessori Academy of Northern Colorado. Think about what happens when a child shows a grandparent how to do a favorite classroom activity. The child gets to say, “Let me show you,” and the grown-up gets to follow their lead. That small exchange captures what we love about bringing generations together. Everyone has something to share, and everyone gets a chance to learn.
Family stories help children feel connected
A grandparent might tell a child about walking to school, making tortillas with their own grandmother, or playing the same game the child loves today. A story like that gives children a chance to ask questions and hear how life was different for someone they know. Looking through an old photo together or hearing a song in a family’s home language can open the same kind of conversation. Over time, those moments give children a sense of where their family’s stories and traditions come from.
Everyday tasks give generations something to do together
Montessori Practical Life activities are a natural way for children and older adults to spend time together. Think of a grandparent showing a child how to fold a napkin the way their family does for special meals. The adult can show the first fold slowly and give the child a turn. Then the child might show how they fold a cloth at school. Both get to share something familiar, and the child gets the satisfaction of doing a real job that helps everyone at the table.
Community grows when children get to contribute
When a child shows a visitor where the materials belong or explains how they water a classroom plant, they get to be the person who knows how things work. And when a visitor listens closely and gives them time to explain, the child gets to see that what they know matters to someone else.
Grandparents Week is also a chance to celebrate the older adults who show up for children in many ways. A grandparent, great-aunt, family friend, or trusted neighbor can all be part of a child’s community. Some families live far apart, and sharing a story over the phone or sending a photo with a voice message can give children that same chance to connect.
Try it with your family this week
Invite an older loved one to share a childhood photo or teach your child one step of a favorite recipe. Then switch roles and let your child show them something they’ve learned recently. Give each person a few minutes to ask questions and take a turn.
To the grandparents and older loved ones who share your time, stories, and traditions with our children, thank you. We’re glad you’re part of our Montessori community.