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As grandmothers, we’re always looking for simple ways to grow closer to our grandkids—something beyond the usual hugs, cookies, and bedtime stories. We want to be more than just their “babysitter” or the one who spoils them. We want a connection that feels personal, playful, and lasting.
One easy, heartfelt way to deepen that bond is by making fun nicknames together.
Now, I’m not just talking about us giving them a nickname—though that’s a lovely thing, too. I mean sitting down with your grandkids, getting a little silly, and coming up with nicknames for each other. The kind that sticks. The kind that makes you both smile every time it’s said. The kind that says, “You and I, we’ve got our own little thing.”
Here’s how that small idea can turn into one of the sweetest ways to grow even closer to your grandchildren.
1. Nicknames Build Connection Through Shared Humor
Let’s be honest—kids love to laugh. They love it when we join in on the fun, even if it means being a little goofy. Nicknames are the perfect excuse to giggle and play around with words.
Maybe you start calling your grandson “Monkey Muffin” because he’s always climbing the furniture, and he turns right around and calls you “Grandma Banana.” The point isn’t perfection—it’s playfulness. That shared silliness builds a strong bridge of laughter between you. It’s a private joke, a moment only you two share, and every time you say that nickname, you both remember how it started.
That kind of humor sticks, and it helps create joyful memories that can last a lifetime.
2. It Shows Them You See Who They Really Are
Kids blossom when they feel seen. And when you give them a nickname that reflects who they are, what they love, or even what you love about them, you’re telling them, “I notice you. I know you. I like who you are.”
Is your granddaughter always singing and twirling around the house? Maybe she’s “Little Songbird.” Does your grandson insist on wearing his superhero cape to the grocery store? Call him “Captain Courage.” These names tell a story about who they are—and better yet, they show them that their unique little quirks are noticed and celebrated.
Even better, let them give you a nickname that reflects how they see you. It could be as sweet as “Snugglebug” or as wild as “The Great Cookie Queen.” However it turns out, it’s a name that reflects your relationship—and there’s real beauty in that.
3. It Makes You Feel Like a Team
There’s something powerful about shared language. It can make people feel like they’re part of a club—a team. That’s exactly what happens when you and your grandkids have special nicknames for each other.
When you greet them with “Hey there, Lightning Legs!” and they respond with, “Hi, Granny Zoom Zoom!”—you’re not just saying hello. You’re reminding each other: We’re connected. We’re in this together.
And if you have multiple grandkids, you can help each one feel unique by creating their own special nickname—something just between you and them. You could even give yourself a different nickname with each grandchild. To one, you’re “Gram Jam,” to another, “Pickle Nana.” It’s okay to be a different flavor of fun for each child—it only makes your relationships feel more personal.
4. Nicknames Can Soothe in Difficult Moments
Believe it or not, these silly names can be helpful during tough moments, too.
Let’s say your grandchild is having a rough day—maybe they’re frustrated, tired, or even in trouble. Using their special nickname in that moment can soften the tension and remind them that your love is steady, even when things feel rocky.
“Okay, Stinkerbug, I know you’re upset, but let’s take a breath.” It’s far gentler than using their full name in a stern tone. It reminds them that they’re safe with you. That they’re still your precious “Marshmallow Monster” or “Lady Snickerdoodle,” no matter what.
That tiny moment of comfort, wrapped up in a familiar nickname, can help them reset—and help you stay calm and connected, too.
5. You’ll Create Lifelong Memories They’ll Never Forget
Ask most grown-ups, and they’ll tell you: they still remember the nickname their grandma or grandpa gave them.
These aren’t just nicknames—they’re time capsules. They bring back memories of baking pies in the kitchen, reading books under a blanket, or chasing fireflies in the backyard. They remind your grandchild of you, in all your warm, wonderful glory.
One day, when they’re older, they may even pass that nickname on to their own child or grandchild. Imagine that—your nickname, echoing into the next generation. What a beautiful legacy of love and fun.
How to Start Making Nicknames Together
Not sure how to get the ball rolling? Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:
🎨 Make It a Game
Sit down together and say, “Let’s come up with silly names for each other!” Give each other five minutes to invent something wacky. You can even write them down and draw little doodles next to them.
🧁 Use Shared Memories
Think about something you’ve done together recently. Did you bake muffins? Watch a superhero movie? Go to the zoo? “Muffin Maker,” “Zookeeper Zane,” or “Popcorn Pal” could be the start of something sweet.
🧠 Think in Themes
Try picking a theme, like food, animals, or outer space. Then brainstorm nicknames around it—“Captain Cocoa,” “Baby Bear,” or “Star Nana.”
🗣 Let It Happen Naturally
Sometimes the best nicknames come from something said in the moment. A mispronounced word, a funny sound, or a goofy face might spark the perfect nickname without even trying.
🧡 Be Respectful and Kind
Make sure any nickname is something your grandchild likes. If it makes them uncomfortable or embarrassed, toss it and try again. The goal is to make them feel seen, not teased.
Final Thought from One Grandma to Another
Being a grandparent is one of the most special roles we’ll ever have. We have the freedom to be gentle, funny, wise, and wildly imaginative with the children who hold our hearts.
Creating fun nicknames with our grandkids is more than just play—it’s a way to speak their love language, to remind them that in a world full of busyness and distractions, you see them. You treasure them. And you love having your own little world with just the two of you in it.
So whether you end up being “Grandma Goofball,” “Nana Llama,” or “Queen Pickle,” wear that name proudly. Let them call you by it with a grin. And call them something just as wonderful in return.
Because when it comes down to it, we grandmas know—it’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present.
And sometimes, the silliest little nickname can be the most beautiful reminder of the love you share.
