how grandparents can support grandkids in school

in this blog: 

• Grandparent's key role in kid's lives
• 3 ways grandparents can show support
• Free conversation starters for grandkids 
• More resources from On Our Sleeves

Grandparents play a powerful and unique role in their grandchildren’s education and school success. Whether it’s helping with homework, sharing family stories, or just offering a hug after a tough day, research shows that involved grandparents can make a real difference. 

When grandparents stay engaged, they: 

• Offer unconditional love and emotional support 
• Share wisdom and practical advice for school and life 
• Model emotional regulation and social skills 
• Create a sense of belonging through family stories 
• Expand a child’s worldview through life experiences 

At On Our Sleeves, we highlight the importance of caring adults in a child’s life—and grandparents often play a key role in supporting children’s mental well-being and school success. That role can look different depending on how involved they are and how close they live. 

As families and lifestyles evolve, so do the ways grandparents engage with their grandchildren. The good news? Every level of involvement matters—whether near or far. 

Here are just a few examples of modern grandparent roles: 

• Long-distance grandparents who stay connected through phone calls, video chats, or letters 
• Local grandparents who offer rides, help with homework, or attend school events 
• Primary caregivers or legal guardians raising their grandchildren full-time 
• Grandparents who live in the same home or provide regular after-school care 
• Chosen grandparents—family friends, neighbors, or community members who step into a grandparent-like role 

No matter what role you play as a grandparent, there are so many ways to be a part of your grandchild’s back-to-school season! Here are three areas where you can show your support!  

three ways grandparents can support grandkids in school

1. School supply shopping: School supply shopping can be fun and exciting time for kids but also very overwhelming for parents. Here are some ways you can help lighten the load: 

• Tag along on the shopping trip: If you live close by, offer to go with your adult child and grandchild to pick out supplies. Sometimes just having an extra set of adult hands (especially if there are multiple kids) can be a big help!  
• Help from afar: If you are out of town, you can still be involved by mailing a gift or sending money to cover a few items. If you aren’t in a financial position to help, video call your grandchild and have them show off their new supplies so you can feel a part of the process!

Helpful Hint: Buying school supplies can be a special tradition between parents and kids. Before stepping in, be sure to ask how involved your adult child would like you to be.   

2. School work: Studies show that grandparents can play a big role in a child’s academic achievement. There are many ways you can be involved in their education depending on your proximity and role in their lives. If you are providing after-school caretaking or just want to support their academic journey, keep these tips in mind:  

• Stay in sync with parents: Talk with the adult parent to clarify things like: 
  • When should homework be completed (right after school, after a snack, after free time, etc.) 
  • How much help should I provide vs. letting them try to figure it out on their own? 
  • Are screens and music okay during homework time? 

• Create a positive environment. Keep school positive! Focus on their efforts and not the final product (grades). Ask open-ended questions about how school is going and just listen.  
• Praise progress over perfection: Focusing on effort (rather than just grades) helps kids develop resilience and a growth mindset. Research shows that praising effort boosts success and mental well-being.   

3. Show Up for School Events: Whether it’s a concert, science fair, or read aloud day—kids notice who is there.

• If you live close by and are able, consider also volunteering as room parent, cafeteria monitor, reading buddy, or another role that is needed at your grandchild’s school. It can benefit you as much as them!  
• If you live far away or aren’t able to attend school events, ask for a “private show” via video chat, listen to them practice ahead of time, or call them afterward to hear about how it went.  

School may look different than it did when you were a student, but one thing hasn’t changed—grandparents can make a big difference in a child’s school success. Whether you're offering a listening ear, helping with homework, or cheering them on, your support, praise, and presence can help set the tone for a great year ahead. 

Need help starting conversations with your grandchild? 

We've created a free set of conversation starters about going back to school. These easy and fun prompts can help you connect and talk about school, feelings, and everything in between. 
Click here to get your conversation starters!

more resources from On Our Sleeves

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