Grandparenting Tips for Building Rapport with Tech-Savvy Teens

Grandkids grow into mature adults, developing their own unique opinions. With the advent of technology, they often find themselves glued to their screens. At this stage, connecting with them on a deeper level often requires more than simply allowing an occasional dessert before dinner; it demands thoughtful engagement. To capture their attention and draw them away from their devices, create moments and experiences that make them feel at ease—things that they look forward to and resonate with their passions and curiosities.

Create a Connection and Build Upon It

Sometimes, the best foundation for a strong connection is curiosity—a genuine, heartfelt interest in someone’s life, without any hidden agenda or expectations. The same holds true when connecting with your teenage grandkids. Ask them questions about their world, and genuinely take an interest in their answers. Inquire about the music they enjoy, their favorite television shows, or the movie they are excited to watch. And when they respond positively, generate a light conversation by asking a few follow-up questions. Once they understand that you’re genuinely interested in their activities—not just monitoring their lives—they’ll be more likely to open up and converse freely.

Additionally, as you learn what matters to them, you can find thoughtful ways to encourage them. This might include a small gift connected to their interests or a gesture that shows you’ve been paying attention. Eventually, your grandkids will actively seek out your company and want to spend more time with you.

Allow Them to Lead

Sometimes it’s best not to push them to put their phones down; instead, be curious about what interests them about their devices. Let your grandchild teach you how an app works, how they edit videos, or how they stay connected with their friends. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll also get to spend valuable time with your not-so-little munchkins. You’ll see how they get so excited about imparting the knowledge they carry. Moreover, this tech-savvy bonding with your teenage grandkids will let you connect with them online.

Be Approachable

One of the most meaningful things you can offer a teenager is your presence. Let them know, without saying it outright, that you’re someone they can turn to for support. This begins with truly listening without interrupting or rushing to offer advice. Sometimes, they just want to talk things through.

Create a calm, judgment-free space where they feel emotionally safe enough to share what’s on their mind. This approach can strengthen your bond with your teen grandkids, as often what they need is a patient listener. When the time feels right, you can offer them the advice they need and deserve, but be sure it is not forced or delivered in a condescending tone.

Share Your Experiences

Everyone loves stories, especially those that come from real experiences and good storytellers. As a grandparent, you have plenty of both to share. Telling stories from your younger days—be it funny mishaps, first jobs, or friendships—can be surprisingly intriguing and exciting for teens. These stories help them see you not just as a grandparent, but as someone who’s lived, learned, and grown over the years. When these anecdotes are shared naturally, without turning them into lessons, your stories can often spark curiosity and lead to organically funny moments. Sometimes, your stories might even lead them to share deeper conversations about their own lives.

Discover New Ideas to Spend Time Together

There are many ways to encourage your teen grandkids to put down their phones and spend quality time with you. One effective approach is to engage in their hobbies, if they are open to it. You can join them for online games they play, watch their favorite shows together, go to movies they’re excited about, or even take a hike together.

Additionally, you can introduce them to your interests, which they might find exciting and enjoyable. You can bake or cook with them, work on crafts together, involve them in your gardening routine, or watch your favorite films together. Finding a middle ground with activities like board games, attending a sporting event, or visiting a museum can also be a great way to bond. By mixing things up in this way, you can nurture a modern grandparent-grandchild relationship that feels natural, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable.

Spend a Relaxed Day with Them

Sometimes, the best days are the simplest ones. Invite them over for a relaxed day that doesn’t involve detailed planning or a packed schedule. You can simply spend time watching TV together, reading, catching up on current life events, running a few errands together, or heading out for a casual meal. And if you’re dining out, let them choose the restaurant; this gives them a sense of control and makes the outing feel more special. These unstructured days often lead to the most natural conversations and create the warmest memories.