As a long-distance grandparent, you may not always know what to say when you get those precious moments with your grandchild—whether through video chat, text, snail mail, or a quick phone call.
But here’s one powerful sentence to keep in your back pocket that works across all ages and stages:
“I saw something that reminded me of you…”
This small phrase carries big meaning – and can go a long way in nurturing your bond from a distance.
Why This Phrase Matters for Long-Distance Grandparenting
Saying “I saw something that reminded me of you…” might seem simple, but it’s deeply meaningful for children, teens and adult too.
Here’s why:
- It shows you’re thinking of them: Even when you’re miles apart, this phrase says “You’re on my mind.” Children feel loved and remembered when they hear that.
- It strengthens emotional bonds: These small moments of connection help reinforce a sense of belonging and security – especially important when in-person time is limited.
- It supports identity-building: Kids and teens are forming a sense of self. Hearing what others notice about them helps shape their understanding of who they are.
- It opens the door to storytelling and conversation: This phrase is an invitation to connect. It gives your grandchild something specific to respond to – whether in person, on a call, or in a note.
- It works for every age: From toddlers to teens to adult grandchildren, everyone likes to feel seen. This phrase grows with your relationship.
How to Use This Phrase: Real-Life Examples
All you need is a moment of observation and a dash of intention. Of course, adapt these to sound like you and to be reflective of your grandchild. But these examples will get your creative juices flowing!
– “I saw a little boy at church making silly faces – just like you do to make me laugh. I smiled so big!”
– “I saw someone wearing Converse high-tops like yours. You have such great style – I always notice!”
– “I passed a sushi restaurant today and thought, ‘That’s his favorite lunch!’”
– “I saw a dinosaur book and remembered how much you taught me about T. Rexes. You really know your stuff!”
Think of the things they love, wear, do, or talk about. Let those memories guide your message.
How to Share It: Choose Your Medium
This phrase works beautifully across many long-distance grandparenting tools:
– Snail Mail: Include it in a note or card for a personal touch.
– Text Message: Send a quick photo with the phrase. (“Saw this truck – thought of you!”)
– Video Chat: Share a story using this opener to start a deeper conversation.
– Crafty Mail: Draw or cut out a picture that reminded you of them and explain why.
Pro tip: Write this phrase on a sticky note with examples and keep it by your phone, desk or computer as a reminder!
A Connection Ritual That Builds Over Time
What’s beautiful about this phrase is that it creates a repeatable ritual – something your grandchild can come to expect and treasure. Over time, you might even hear them say: “I saw something that reminded me of you.”
And when that happens, you’ll know the connection you’ve nurtured from a distance is growing strong.
Try This Today:
Before your next call, letter, or message, close your eyes and picture your grandchild.
- What do they love?
- What do they wear?
- What do they do that makes you smile?
Start with:
“I saw something that reminded me of you…”
and see where it leads!
Looking for more simple ways to stay close across the miles?
Check out The LDG Ideas Club. Each month you get snail mail to send and tons of virtual ways to connect. They are creative, unique and they have already helped hundreds of grandparents to have more fun and get to know to their grandchild in a meaningful way. Distance does not have to mean distant – it just takes some extra intention, creativity and a willingness to try different ways to engage your grandchild. And if you want all of that, plus a community of grandparents and a leader (me!) who helps you along the way, check out The LDG Society.
