Grandparents play an important role in kids' lives. In fact, studies suggest* grandparents influence emotional and cognitive development in children. 

South Carolina offers plenty of opportunities for grandparents to get outside and stay active with their grandchildren. Here’s a few ways to add healthy, natural fun for a playdate with your grandkids. 

Go for a walk 

Walking has numerous health benefits. But the key is that most people can go for a walk, including young children. 
Walking has also been shown to increase positive mood and creativity. Walking outside has the added benefit of increasing sun exposure, which can lift your mood. And research shows fresh air has numerous health benefits*.  

You don’t have to go far. Hold a hand and go for a short walk around your neighborhood. Or opt for a bigger outdoor adventure by checking out one of South Carolina’s many family-friendly hikes in all corners of the state. 

Take to the water 

Our state has plenty of opportunities to enjoy water play. Check out a pedal boat at Sesquicentennial State Park* or rent a canoe at one of the other small lakes* at our state parks. Paddling is good for most fitness levels. Whatever you do, be sure to practice water safety by wearing life jackets and always keeping an eye on small children. 

Have a picnic 

Picnics are a popular childhood activity for good reason. Being outside gives kids plenty of space to be active without making a mess, but it also is good for their health. Time spent outside has been linked* to improved attention, lower stress and better mood, among other perks. 

Be sure to pack plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables for a healthy heart.

Play together 

Play is important for all ages. And it doesn’t have to be difficult. Throw a ball (or roll it!), set up a hopscotch course on your driveway or create a treasure hunt in your yard. You can find opportunities to play no matter your fitness level. In fact, playing games inside such as board games or word games is also linked* to improved attention and memory. 

Several state parks offer games such as horseshoe and others. At Colleton State Park, you can check out board games and equipment for outdoor games. Many parks permit geocaching, as well.

Read along

Reading together is one of the most important things* adults can do with children. It has cognitive benefits and improves their social and emotional well-being. But reading also has health benefits for adults. It can improve your sleep and reduce stress*. 

Create art 

Children love creating art. It can be an easy activity for grandparents and grandchildren. In fact, art has long been used for healing purposes*. It can be as simple as coloring a picture together. Or as complex as learning an instrument and making music together. Incorporating art into your life can improve your mood and help with brain health. 

Eye-spy in nature

Having fun with your grandchildren in nature doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Have a simple nature scavenger hunt or play a round of eye-spy. 

You can find resources at local libraries to help. Did you know many libraries offer services beyond checking out books? The Greenville County Library system offers* South Carolina State Park Passports. These passes let guests visit any of the state’s parks. Charleston County Public Library* and Richland Library also offer this service. 

Richland Library also has a Library of Things*. You can use your library card to check out gear such as hiking poles, bird-watching packs, tents and more.  

But you can also start bird-watching with your grandchildren without any equipment. It has plenty of health benefits for everyone without much effort. 

Hunt for shells

If you live close enough or can easily get to one of South Carolina’s pristine beaches with your grandkids, these natural playgrounds offer plenty of opportunity to have fun and be active together. Just take a stroll and hunt for seashells together. Bonus points if you take them home for an art project or create one out of sand on the beach. 

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