A Christmas list for grandparents: low-clutter gifts and easy sharing
Most grandparents are easiest to buy for with photos, experiences and things that get used up. AARP's gift guides lean the same way: keepsakes, classes, outings and gift cards rather than more objects. A list for a grandparent should be short, in large print or sent by text, with a price on each line and one person named to help with ordering.
Two lists: for grandparents and from grandparents
This topic has two readers. Adults ask what to buy for a grandparent. Grandparents ask what to buy for grandchildren. They need different lists. A list for a grandparent is short and personal. A list from a grandparent is the grandchild's list, shared with them, so they buy the right thing. Both work with the same link style.
Ideas for a grandparent, from AARP
| Type | What AARP suggests | On the list, write |
|---|---|---|
| Keepsakes | A digital photo frame, pocket-sized photo books, a letter-writing kit, a knitted blanket | The exact frame, and who will load the photos |
| Experiences | Online cooking classes, a voucher for a round of golf, a massage or a day at a spa, concert or comedy tickets | Which one, and a date range |
| Cards and consumables | Gift cards for a coffee shop or restaurant, home improvement cards for DIY fans, flower or vegetable seeds | The store and the amount |
| Money gifts | A savings account or 529 plan for a grandchild, or a charity gift card the child can direct | The account details, if you are giving to them |
A note on health and mobility
Choose gifts by what a person can do today, not by age. A grandparent who hikes wants a good pair of socks and a trail map, and one with limited grip may want lightweight tools and a lamp with a large switch. Ask a parent or the grandparent's friends if you are not sure, and keep receipts for anything that might need to be returned.
Print it so it is easy to read
- Type size: the sample above is set at 22 point. Use a plain typeface and black on white.
- Short: five to eight items, one per line, with the store and a rough price.
- Exact details: size, color and quantity, written out.
- One named helper: "Call Dana" or "Dana can order it" removes the online step.
- A date: a line such as "lunch out in January" turns an experience into a plan.
- Print it from the Christmas list template, or send the same list by text.
A list for grandchildren to share with grandparents
When a parent makes a list for a child and sends the link to the grandparents, the grandparents see the real items with buy links. They tap I got this when they buy, so the other grandparents and relatives see it is taken. AARP's guide to grandchild gifts points to keepsakes, shared experiences and money for the future, and any of those can sit on the child's list alongside toys. See Christmas list for kids for how to build it, and how to hide what is bought for how the privacy works.
Make a list for a grandparent or for a grandchild and share it by text. Start my Christmas list
A grandparent far away can open an advent calendar with your messages one door a day. $7.99, no app.
Frequently asked questions
What do you put on a Christmas list for grandparents?
Photos, experiences, consumables, comfort items and things that make daily life easier. Keep clutter low.
How do I make a Christmas list for a grandparent who does not use the internet?
Print the list in large type, add the store, size and price, and name one person who can place the order.
How do grandparents shop from a child's list?
Send them a link. They tap a gift to see where to buy it and tap I got this when done.
How many gifts should a grandparent list have?
Five to eight, from small to larger.
Is it okay to ask grandparents for experiences instead of toys?
Yes. AARP's guides suggest classes, outings and shared activities as gifts. Put one or two experiences on the grandchildren's list.
Make your list
Add what you want, send one link. Family marks what they bought and you never see it.
Start my Christmas list- No account, no app, no email
- Works with any store link
- Deletes itself after January 31
Ready when you are
Make a list in a minute. No sign-up, no name, no email, and you never see what was bought.