As long distance grandparents, our grandkids are here with us just a few times a year, and possibly just once during the summer. They love to play outside if their visit coincides with warm weather. Yes, I have walked through Costco, looked at the gigantic play structures and momentarily pictured being ‘Amma of the Year’ if the kids were greeted by such an elaborate playground when they arrived. Of course this was quickly followed by more sensible thoughts, such as how can I make our outdoor area a place filled with fun, but not filled with ‘kid stuff’?
As grandparents, we don’t need a swing set or huge sandbox to make the backyard a wonderland. Our visits with grandkids can be unforgettable with just a few thoughtful touches. Here are some simple space saving upgrades that let us create moments of play and connection, and our grandkids will know that we have them in mind when they arrive!
In This Post
Stash-and-Go Play Bins
What to do: Keep a large weatherproof storage bin or deck box filled with outdoor fun—chalk, balls, bubbles, water blasters, or kid-sized garden tools.
Why it works: Everything’s hidden away when not in use, but instantly transforms your yard when grandkids arrive.
Bonus: Label the bin “Grandkid Gear” or add a small chalkboard sign on the lid. They’ll know just what they can dive into.
Pop-Up Fun Zones
What to do: Use collapsible or portable play items like a fabric teepee, a folding tunnel, or a toddler-size picnic table.
Why it works: These set up in minutes and fold flat when not needed! They are perfect for small patios or corners of the yard.
Pro tip: Keep a blanket (or a bed sheet) and books nearby to turn the teepee into a cozy reading tent!
Natural Play Elements
What to do: Incorporate nature-based “play features” that blend in beautifully—think stepping stones, a fairy garden pot, or a smooth rock collection. We have some apple stepping stones (we saved them from when we lived on an apple farm and moved them with us!). The girls have had so much fun walking the little 7 stone curved path in our landscaping over and over.
Why it works: These don’t look like toys but still spark curiosity and creativity.
Try this: Make a set of cards to go with the stepping stones. Kids pull a card and then move along the path performing the corresponding action – dancing, singing, hopping, walking backwards, counting forward, counting backward, spelling a word…the possibilities are endless.
Secret Corners & Cozy Nooks
What to do: Tuck a bench behind a bush or hang a hammock between trees to create a kid-sized “hideout.”
Why it works: It feels like a secret spot just for them, but it still looks like a peaceful retreat for grown-up use.
Add charm: Solar fairy lights or a simple wind chime make it feel extra special.
Small Garden, Big Memories
What to do: Dedicate one planter or garden bed to be “their garden”, even if it’s just a few flowers or herbs. My grandkids’ grandma on their dads side did just this and it is adorable. They have a fun little corner of the garden, and some kid size gardening gloves and tools. They have planted wildflowers, and worked the soil – even if sometimes they don’t see the fruit of their labor they are having a great time! If they help you plant something during a visit, make sure to update them with pictures as their plants grow.
Why it works: It gives them something to care about and check on during future visits.
Keep it simple: Cherry tomatoes, zinnias, or strawberries are fun to grow and easy to maintain.
Sidewalk Chalk Station
What to do: Store chalk and a spray bottle in a small basket or plastic tote.
Why it works: The bright colored chalk infuses kids with instant creativity, washable fun, and it leaves no trace once it rains or you hose it off.
Memory-maker idea: Have kids draw a “welcome” mural when they arrive. Take a photo together before it fades. You could even use the photo in some snail mail recounting a few of the fun memories made during their visit.
Space for Movement
What to do: Leave a patch of grass open for running, rolling, or chasing bubbles.
Why it works: Even if you don’t have fixed equipment, an open space gives kids room to play and be kids.
Nice touch: Keep a frisbee, beach ball, or glider in your play bin—easy to pull out for a quick game.
Magical Details That Take No Space
- A string of lights across the fence = evening wonder
- A wooden sign that says “Grandkids Welcome Here” = instant charm!
- A garden gnome or hidden fairy door = delight for little eyes
Bonus Idea: Backyard Safari Adventure
Turn your yard into the wild savannah!
What you need: Just a few plastic animals hidden around the yard (or print and laminate animal pictures).
How to play:
- Give kids binoculars (real or pretend!) and send them on a safari to find each animal.
- Add clues or animal facts for an educational twist!
- Bonus: Older grandkids can use your phone as a “camera” and take safari “photos” of what they find. Then have fun creating a safari story using the pics
Remember you don’t need a swing set to swing into fun! So the next time you start eyeing a gigantic play structure, remember that a few thoughtful touches, stowed-away supplies, and imagination-fueled games are all it takes to turn a short visit into a treasured memory your grandkids will talk about for years.
