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Whether you live with your grandchildren, across town, or across the world, there’s still something magical about receiving a good old-fashioned piece of mail.
Sending unique and heartfelt items through the postal service not only strengthens the bond between you and your grandkids, but it also adds a touch of excitement and anticipation to their lives. If you’ve been to this site before, you know, I’m constantly harping about writing letters to your grandkids.
But, let’s dive into 11 wonderful and UNIQUE ideas for things to send your grandkids in the mail. Watch their faces light up when they open those precious packages.
“Open When” Letters
Craft a series of “Open When” letters for your grandkids to enjoy in specific situations or when they’re feeling a certain way. For example, “Open when you’re feeling blue” or “Open when you need a giggle.” Fill these letters with heartfelt messages, silly jokes, or even small surprises like stickers.
You could send them an “open when” for dozens of feelings and times. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, in all the best times. Here are just a few that come to mind.
Open When…
- you have a bad day
- you feel nervous about a big event
- you need a laugh
- you get a bad grade
- you miss your grandma 🙂
Themed Care Packages
It’s like Christmas all year round with these delightful themed care packages. Curate a box of goodies that cater to your grandkids’ interests, such as a space exploration kit or a DIY fairy garden. Feel free to let your imagination run wild – the sky’s the limit! You can find most of the materials in local craft stores or online.
Here are 30 DIY craft ideas. You could buy the materials and send it to them along with directions.
Homemade Treats
Whip up some love and sweetness by sending your grandkids homemade treats. Whether it’s your famous chocolate chip cookies or a secret family fudge recipe, these scrumptious delights will have your grandkids begging for more. Just be prepared for a flurry of thank you calls and possibly requests for a baking lesson during their next visit.
Don’t forget to pack those treats well so they arrive fresh and ready to devour!
See also: whacky, unique recipes to make with the grandkids.
Long Distance Scavenger Hunt
Unleash the detective in your grandkids with a long-distance scavenger hunt! Send them a series of clever clues or riddles that lead them to discover various items or locations around their home or neighborhood. You can even enlist their parents to help plant a few surprises or rewards related to each destination. This idea will make you the mastermind behind their most thrilling adventures and create unforgettable memories.
While it’s not a “long distance” one, you can use my Scavenger Hunt guide for help.
Mystery Artifact Challenge
Time to put on your Sherlock Holmes hat and challenge your grandkids to solve the mystery of an unusual or antique artifact. Send them an intriguing object along with a challenge to research its history or purpose. You can find such items at antique stores, flea markets, or even your own attic. Watch your grandkids transform into history buffs and impress you with their investigative skills!
I saw a fun service online that does this automatically. It’s called Mail Order Mystery. I have not tried it myself but your grandkids might really love it.
Grandkid Reporter Kit
Turn your grandkids into roving family reporters by sending them a “reporter kit” complete with a list of interview questions, a notebook, pens, and a voice recorder.
Encourage them to interview you, their parents, or other family members about family history or interesting stories. They’ll not only uncover fascinating family tales but also develop their communication and listening skills.
Time Capsule in a Box
Capture the essence of the present by creating a time capsule in a box for your grandkids. Fill it with items that represent the current year or your shared memories, like popular toys, newspaper clippings, or even a USB drive with a playlist of current hit songs. Encourage them to open it in a few years to rediscover the past and appreciate the love and thoughtfulness behind your gift.
You can label the box with some sort of “Do not open until______” message to make it extra fun although it might admittedly drive them crazy to know what’s inside!
See also: How to make a time capsule with your grandkids
Memory Lane Map
Take your grandkids on a trip down memory lane with a personalized illustrated map tracing your family’s history and highlighting significant places. Your grandkids will be fascinated by the stories behind each location and might even feel inspired to visit these places someday.
You can create the map yourself or collaborate with an online service to bring your family’s story to life.
I admit this one might be a little hard to put together, but it would be something they’d keep forever.
Personalized Clothing
Nothing says “I’m loved by my grandparents” like personalized clothing or accessories. Custom t-shirts, embroidered hats, or even monogrammed bags will make your grandkids feel extra special and show off their amazing grandparents. You can find custom clothing options in local print shops or through sites online like Printful.com.
In fact, you can customize just about anything.
Family Treasure
Share a piece of your family’s legacy by sending your grandkids a cherished family heirloom. It could be a piece of jewelry, a vintage toy, or even a well-loved book that’s been passed down through generations. Include a note explaining the history and significance of the item, and watch as your grandkids treasure it for years to come.
This gift will not only strengthen their connection to their family roots but also create a beautiful tradition for future generations.
Conclusion
Sending unique and heartfelt items to your grandkids in the mail is a fantastic way to nurture the special bond you share. It adds an element of surprise and delight to their lives and serves as a constant reminder of how much they are loved and cherished. So, let your creativity run wild and start filling those mailboxes with love, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.
