Grammy on the Go
By Karen Shadrach
St Patrick’s Day is soon upon us on March 17th. If you are visiting or having your grandchildren over anytime near that date, why not throw a little St Patrick’s Day party? It doesn’t take much to make it special, just a little green, a little silliness, and an easy-to-pull-off plan that mixes crafts, games, food and just enough “leprechaun mischief” to make everyone giggle.
Set the Scene
Add simple, kid-friendly decorations such as a green tablecloth, paper plates and napkins. Put out a bowl of gold-wrapped chocolates or plastic gold coins. The grandkids would love to help make some decorations for the occasion.
Have them make shamrock sun-catchers using a shamrock outline. Cut up pieces of tissue paper in rainbow colors and place on contact paper, then place a second piece of contact paper over the tissue layer. Use string or ribbon to hang or tape onto windows. A simple craft table stocked with markers, glue sticks, and glitter lets the grandkids make their own leprechaun hats or rainbow wands. These handmade creations double as party décor and give them a sense of pride as they show off their masterpieces.
Leprechaun Mischief
Nothing delights children quite like the idea of a tiny, sneaky leprechaun causing harmless chaos. Before the kids arrive, leave a few playful clues around the house — green footprints leading to the cookie jar, a tipped-over chair, or a note written in tiny handwriting. The goal isn’t to fool them completely but to spark their imagination. You can even set up a “leprechaun trap” activity. Provide boxes, pipe cleaners and colorful paper, then let the kids design their own traps. They’ll giggle their way through the process, and you’ll enjoy watching their creativity unfold. Also include access to stickers, aluminum foil and anything sparkly, as leprechauns can’t resist shiny things.
Game Time
A few simple games can turn the afternoon into a full-blown adventure. Try a shamrock scavenger hunt, hiding paper clovers around the house or yard. Another favorite is “Pass the Potato,” a St. Patrick’s Day spin on the classic hot potato game. Put on some lively Irish music and let the fun unfold.
Fun Food
Food is half the fun of any celebration, and St. Patrick’s Day offers plenty of whimsical options. Rainbow fruit skewers, shamrock-shaped sandwiches, or green-tinted pancakes are easy kid-pleasers. Add a drop of green food coloring to clear pop or juice for a festive drink! If you’re feeling ambitious, a “pot of gold” snack mix — popcorn, pretzels and gold-coated candies— adds a sweet surprise.
For a healthier twist, serve green smoothies made with spinach, banana and pineapple. Kids love the bright color, and you’ll love sneaking in something nutritious.
Tell the Tales
While the day is filled with fun, it’s also a lovely opportunity to share a bit of heritage and meaning. Tell a short, kid-friendly story about St. Patrick or explain the symbolism of the shamrock. Children enjoy learning when it’s woven naturally into the festivities.
Whether you’re Irish by heritage or simply Irish at heart, creating a festive celebration can turn an ordinary afternoon into a memory they’ll talk about for years. After all, when you’re celebrating with grandkids, every day feels a little lucky.
Photos by Karen Shadrach
