Meaningful Gifts Grandparents Can Get for Grandkids

3. A blanket you knit yourself 

Some kids keep their baby blankets well into adulthood. What makes this one extra special? You can knit the blanket yourself, even if you haven't knitted anything before. There are a variety of kits with full instructions, so even a beginner can create a beautiful blanket sure to be cherished for years. Check out Seahorse Blanket Knitting Kit (weareknitters.com; $45) and DIY Minky Tag Blanket Kit (etsy.com; from about $20).

Gifts for older kids

4. Letter-writing kit 

There's no better pen pal than a grandparent, and letters open the portal to sharing recipes, stories, favorite traditions and more. What thoughts you put on paper, your grandkids will cherish for decades to come. Check out Grandparent and Grandchild Letter Book Set (uncommongoods.com; $45) and Grandparent and Grandchild Pen Pal Kit (mrboddington.com; $32).

5. Charity gift cards 

In a year when so many are struggling, why not give the gift of philanthropy? There are gift cards your grandchildren can use to pick a cause they want to donate to. They can support other kids at places like Make-a-Wish or Ronald McDonald House, give funds to art or theater organizations, or turn their passion for animals into advocacy. Check out Charity on Top (charityontop.org; $5+) and Tis Best (tisbest.org; $5+).

6. Online cooking classes

Experiences turn into memories, and even if we can't participate in in-person activities right now, there are plenty of other ways to connect. Why not gather together for an online cooking class? The business will send you the grocery list and the instructions you need. Meet online with one or all of your grandchildren for a delicious time cooking everything from lasagna to holiday cookies. Check Out Sur La Table (surlatable.com; $29+) and Pasta with the Grandmas (Airbnb.com/experiences; from $45 per person).

Gifts for all ages

7. Digital photo and video frames 

Technology has come a long way with photo frames; they can capture special moments and even clips of movement. Your grandkids will love a digital snapshot of all of your great memories together. Check out Infinite Objects Video Print (infiniteobjects.com; starting at $70) and Atatat Digital Photo Frame (amazon.com; about $65).

8. Pocket-sized photo books

These small books make the perfect stocking stuffer or Hanukkah gift, holding dozens of photos. Grandkids can keep them in their nightstand drawer, throw them into their backpack or put them up on the fridge. Check out Tiny Books (socialprintstudio.com; 3 for $21) and Accordion Minis (mpix.com; $20).

9. Charm bracelet 

This longtime popular accessory comes with a modern twist these days, with charms ranging from the classic Grandma's Girl to Harry Potter. With hundreds to choose from, you can pick the most meaningful charms for your grandkids and add a charm each holiday season for years to come. Check Out Alex and Ani Charm Bangles (alexandani.com; from $30) and Charm It Charms (shopcharm-it.com; starting at under $10).

10. Savings for the future 

Whether you invest in stocks, put money into a 529 plan or simply start a savings account, a gift that will help in the future sometimes is the best kind of gift. Don't leave it as just a deposit, but, rather, help your grandchildren understand savings, and that lesson will pay off in dividends.