From knitting to crossword puzzles, so-called “grandma hobbies” are having a moment with Gen Z.
Kathy Buckworth explores why these slower, screen-free pastimes might actually be hobbies for everyone.
Knitting, crafting, painting, gardening, puzzles and embroidery are traditionally seen to belong to the grandparent set. But lately these “grandma hobbies,” as they’ve been dubbed, have become a social media trend, as Gen Zers look to remove themselves from screens and into a more tactile world.
Why is the term “grandma hobbies” problematic?
The label on the surface isn’t my favourite. First off, I’m a grandma, and the only hobby of mine that might might fit this category is my love of crosswords, or any type of word puzzles (I often imagine I’m auditioning for a spot at Bletchley Park when I crack a cryptogram).
When I first started hearing about the term and the trend of taking up the slower, more intentional hobbies of days gone by, I’ll admit it offended me. I found it condescending. My current hobby list consists of working, travelling, riding my bike and working out. These other crafty things weren’t an accurate description of how I was living a grandma life.
But others were.
My sister is a professional artist, amazing at crochet and other crafts, but not a grandma.
Gardening never even occurs to me. But it does occur to my very green thumbed husband, a grandad.
How is Gen Z embracing the trend?
So, I went into the old bedroom of one of my Gen Z kids the other day and found all the examples of grandparent hobbies I could ever need: ceramics, painting, colouring books, model building, etc.
On Saturday mornings, you can often find me and my 23-year-old son and his 22-year-old girlfriend fighting over the weekly crossword in the newspaper.
I suppose upon reflection I’ve discovered that I don’t actually mind the stereotypes of as I love the idea that grandmas are being associated with something that’s not only cool with the kids, but also that the idea of getting off of phones is a good thing—not only with them, but also for us.
Time off your phone is good for all ages
Grandparents are rightfully being called out for constantly being on their phones, sometimes while in front of their grandchildren, and the result is something researchers have called “digital dementia.” Staring at a screen and not interacting with others can lead to isolation, loneliness and a loss of community as well. Sure, do your Wordle, but then put the phone away for a bit. Connecting online has its benefits, but connecting with the people around us—especially our grandchildren—will always be the best “grandma hobby” ever.
Role model your hobbies
Let your grandchildren help you pore over a puzzle, watch you knit your brow as you produce another wonky scarf, and dig in the dirt to tend your garden together.
Maybe the term we’re looking for here is not “grandma hobbies” but simply “grand hobbies.” (And no, I don’t do Wordle, but I know some “kids” who do.)
