How to Keep a Teenager Entertained – Grandparent Edition!
Spending time with grandkids changes as they grow up. When they’re little, they want to do everything with you, but as they become teenagers, their interests shift. My grandson, who was once attached to my hip, has grown into an independent, adventurous, and incredibly smart young man. While he still loves spending time with me, I’ve had to get creative in how we bond. With four more grandkids—two of whom will be teenagers before I know it—I’m always looking for ways to make these moments special.
If you’re wondering how to keep a teenager entertained without resorting to just letting them disappear into their video games, here’s a fun, low-stress guide to spending time together and making memories.
1. Food is the Way to Their Heart
Teens love food, and my grandson is no exception. He’s adventurous and will try anything, from raw fish to the rarest fruits. He would eat a bug if I let him. Cooking together can be a great way to connect!
Try making homemade pizzas, burgers, or a fun dessert.
Let them take charge—maybe tackle a viral TikTok food trend or one of their favorite recipes.
Take them out for a special treat—ice cream, milkshakes, or a visit to a unique restaurant they’ve been wanting to try.
2. Get Moving & Explore
Not all teens love sitting around, so getting out and doing something active is a great way to bond.
If the weather’s nice, go for a hike, play mini golf, or hit up an arcade.
Take a mini road trip to a nearby town, museum, or an interesting local spot.
Try something active together like bowling, laser tag, or a trampoline park.
3. Game On!
Like most teenagers, my grandson loves video games, especially Fortnite. While I might not be the best player, letting him teach me is always a fun experience.
Play a video game they love and let them be the expert.
Classic board games can be a hit—add a fun bet or challenge to keep things exciting.
Card games, trivia, or even a puzzle can be a great way to have fun while still keeping things relaxed.
4. Movie Night (Let Them Pick!)
Sometimes, the best way to bond is just to kick back and enjoy a good movie or show.
Have a cozy movie night with their favorite snacks.
Introduce them to one of your favorite classics and see their reaction.
Binge-watch a few episodes of a trending show together.
5. Creative Hands-On Fun
My grandson has always loved building things, whether it was crafting a cardboard sword or creating rows for a boat (even if we never made the boat itself).
Build something together—Lego, a model car, or a small DIY project.
Try a simple science experiment or a cool TikTok DIY trend.
Work on a small project together, whether it’s fixing something, organizing a space, or planting something in the garden.
6. Just Hang Out & Connect
Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply be present and let the conversation flow.
Ask about their favorite music, shows, or hobbies.
Let them teach you something new—whether it’s a dance, a game, or the latest social media trend.
Keep things laid-back. Sometimes, just hanging out and being together is enough.
Conclusion
As grandparents, we don’t have to impress our grandkids—we just have to show up, be involved, and embrace whatever makes them happy. Whether it’s playing a video game, trying a weird new food, or just listening to them talk about their interests, it’s all about making memories. My grandson is growing up fast, and before I know it, my twins will be teenagers too. I want to make the most of these years while they still want to spend time with me! If you’re a grandparent, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—these moments are worth it.
