10 intergenerational family activities
Your family is your greatest asset, a precious treasure made up of bonds forged from generation to generation. In today’s fast-paced world, time spent with your loved ones is a priceless opportunity to slow down, get back to basics, and fill up on love and togetherness. To bring young and old together, here are 10 ideas for intergenerational activities that will allow all members of your family to grow and create lasting memories of fun, rewarding, and engaging experiences.
Intergenerational is sensational!
Intergenerational interactions are more than just shared moments—they’re unique opportunities to talk, learn, and grow. In fact, the Fédération des aînées et aînés francophones du Canada points out that the benefits of intergenerational engagement are many for young people, seniors, and the community alike. They include greater solidarity between members of society and improved self-esteem for those taking part. What’s more, intergenerational activities help break the isolation of seniors and improve their quality of life, while helping young people develop a greater sense of community.
Did you know that…
Quebecers are increasingly interested in living together with their elders. According to data published by the Québec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers, intergenerational homes are gaining in popularity in Québec. A census conducted by Statistics Canada in 2022 makes the same observation: the number of multigenerational households has increased by 50% since 2001.
10 intergenerational activities to entertain the whole family
Here are some suggestions for intergenerational activities that will help you foster interaction between the children, teens, adults, and seniors around you. Fun and laughter guaranteed!
Cook traditional recipes
It’s no secret that food brings people together. Get together to make traditional dishes, handed down from generation to generation. Let grandparents share the secret ingredients of their favourite recipe, and why not take the opportunity to make a little book of your family’s culinary must-haves?
Take part in a themed arts and crafts workshop
Bring generations together to create themed art projects that can set the stage for family gatherings. Whether it’s painting, knitting, or crafting for Christmas, the new baby’s baptism, or the grandparents’ golden wedding anniversary, invite everyone to show off their skills and bring their personal touch to the initiative.
Play board games
There’s nothing like board games to get everyone around the table. Laughter, friendly competition, and lots of fun are guaranteed!
Draw your family tree
Let the kids learn about their ancestors from their parents and grandparents by drawing a giant family tree. To make it even more special, stick on photos of all the members and have fun spotting family similarities.
Host a movie night at home
Turn your living room into a movie theatre and invite Grandma and Grandpa to watch a movie. Give the kids a blast from the past by playing an excerpt from a period production as a “trailer” before the screening begins. It’s a nod that will bring back memories for the older generation!
Set up a talent show
To honour every member of your family, both young and old alike, organize a talent show where they can reveal their secret skills. You can also encourage intergenerational interaction by pairing a senior or adult with a child for a duo act. Who knows? Maybe some talents are hereditary!
Browse through photo albums
Seniors, with all their amazing life experience, have a lot of stories to tell. And there’s no better way to put their life’s adventures in perspective than to flip through their photo albums. This activity promises to be an emotional experience for all generations!
Sing at a karaoke party
Let loose with your family by organizing a karaoke party. Select songs from all eras and encourage seniors to teach the youngsters a few dance steps.
Learn at a computer workshop
Let the younger generation share their knowledge with seniors and help them navigate effectively in today’s world by planning a family computer workshop. Grandparents can learn how to better use the computer tools they have at hand and communicate virtually with their grandchildren via videoconference. Both young and old will come out winners!
Take nature walks
Learn more about trees, flowers, and animals as you stroll together through a forest or park. Enhance the experience with an outdoor picnic that will encourage interaction between new and seasoned hikers.
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