The Roots We Plant, The Wings We Give
There’s something magical about the bond between a grandparent and a grandchild. It’s not just the hugs, the cookie baking, or the bedtime stories (though those are some of the sweetest parts!). It’s the way we quietly become part of their foundation, planting little seeds of love, wisdom, and encouragement that they’ll carry with them forever.
Watching my five little ducks grow has been one of the greatest joys of my life. From those tiny toddler hands wrapped around my finger to the proud smiles on their first day of school, every moment has been a reminder that grandparenting is about so much more than just babysitting or visiting on holidays. It’s about building something lasting. A bond that time can’t erase!
Planting Strong Roots
Kids need roots a steady, deep love they can count on no matter what storms come their way.
As grandparents, we get to be a part of that. We’re their safe place. The ones who listen when they need to talk, cheer the loudest at their soccer games, and love them just the way they are.
When I homeschooled my youngest grandson during his kindergarten year, I realized that learning wasn’t just about the ABCs and 123s. It was about building confidence, showing patience, and celebrating every little victory. Those lessons, the ones rooted in love, stick with them longer than any spelling word ever could.
Roots aren’t built in big, flashy moments. They grow in the quiet ones like reading together on the couch, baking lopsided cookies, taking walks and picking wildflowers, sharing stories from when their parents were little.
It’s in those simple, everyday moments that a child learns, “I am loved. I am important. I belong.”
Giving Them Wings to Fly
Just as much as kids need roots, they need wings too.
Our job isn’t to hold on too tightly. It’s to fill their hearts with enough love, courage, and wisdom that when it’s time to spread their wings, they feel ready.
We do this every time we encourage their dreams, listen without judgment, or remind them they are capable of great things.
We do it when we let them make mistakes and cheer them on when they try again.
We do it when we show them that they are strong, smart, and deeply loved, no matter what.
It’s a delicate balance, holding their hands while also letting them soar.
And oh, what a beautiful thing it is to watch them take flight, knowing a piece of us will always go with them.
Simple Ways to Plant Roots and Grow Wings
It doesn’t take grand gestures to make a difference. Here are a few simple, everyday ways to nurture those roots and wings:
Tell your stories. Kids love hearing about your adventures (and misadventures!) when you were their age.
Be their biggest cheerleader. Celebrate their efforts, not just their successes.
Create little traditions. Friday night pancakes, nature walks, silly songs, anything that’s “yours.”
Listen with your whole heart. Sometimes what kids need most is to be heard.
Let them teach you. Whether it’s the latest dance trend or a new game, letting them be the “teacher” shows you value their world.
Remind them often: “You are brave. You are smart. You are loved.”
When Life Feels Busy
I know life can get hectic, for us and for them.
Between school schedules, sports practices, and work commitments, it’s not always easy to find that slow, quiet time together.
But even a quick phone call, a funny text, a surprise letter in the mail, or a weekend visit can plant seeds of connection.
It’s not about how much time. It’s about being intentional with the time we do have.
What we know!
Being a grandparent is one of life’s greatest privileges.
We’re part of their beginning, but our love stays with them through every chapter that follows.
So let’s keep planting those roots deep and steady.
Let’s keep giving them the wings they need to fly bravely into the world.
And let’s treasure every sweet moment we’re given along the way.
Because the love we pour into them today becomes the strength they’ll lean on tomorrow, and that’s a legacy worth leaving.
