Generation X—those born between 1965 and 1980—is putting a fresh spin on grandparenting. They’re rocking while ditching old-school roles, choosing playful titles like “Gigi” or “Gaga,” staying tech-savvy, and focusing on experiences over stuff.
With their independent spirit and love for connection, Gen Xers are focusing on creating a whole new grandparenting style that bridges generations in fun and lasting ways. Let’s see how!
They Choose Their Own Grandparent Identity
You won’t hear many Gen Xers answering to Granny unless they’re doing it ironically. They pick names that feel personal and won’t shy away from being called Gigi, Pops, or even T-Dawg. It’s less about sounding younger and more about owning their role with some style. The name just fits the vibe.
They Know Their Way Around a Group Chat
These grandparents don’t need help turning on the Bluetooth. They’re already texting inside family chats, laughing at memes and sharing them, and making playlists for road trips. They’ve spent decades riding every wave of technology. So staying connected to the grandkids shouldn’t be so difficult!
They’re All About the Shared Experiences
Instead of wrapping up noisy toys, they’re booking tickets for a zoo trip or planning a backyard movie night. It’s less stuff and more stories. And those moments tend to stick. Kids remember who jumped in the lake with them, not who bought them another action figure.
They Can Outlast the Grandkids at the Park
You won’t catch grandparents slowing down anymore. Gen Xers are still running or moving through yoga flows. They stay active and enjoy it when kids accompany them. A simple walk turns into a scavenger hunt, or they’ll throw in a game of tag just because it’s fun.
They’re Still on the Clock—and Still Show Up
Lots of Gen X grandparents are juggling full-time jobs, side hustles, and the occasional Zoom call, all while babysitting on a Friday night. They’re not retired, but they still make time in their demanding routine. Being present for their grandkids is non-negotiable.
They’re the First Call When Something Breaks
Gen X grandparents are the hands-on problem solvers whether you need help building a school project or if you’ve got a flat tire on your bike. They’ve fixed Walkmans, updated Wi-Fi routers, and jumped in without needing any instruction manual. And they’re usually the ones who bring snacks, too.
They Actually Listen—and Don’t Lecture
These grandparents don’t launch into speeches. They ask questions, stay curious, and treat kids like people with opinions. If something’s up, they’ll hear it. Gen X grew up watching TV therapists and real-talk parenting shows. Now, they pass that emotional openness down, and no guilt trips are required.
They’re Basically a Walking Pop Culture Archive
Introduce them to a grandkid with no idea who The Cure is. Challenge accepted. They’ve got playlists from every decade, stories about their first concert, and a working knowledge of Saturday morning cartoons. It’s all part of bonding through vintage cool.
They Don’t Judge New Parenting Styles
Gen X grandparents have seen it all—spanking debates, screen time shifts, and the rise of gentle parenting. They may not agree with every method, but they respect boundaries. If the parents say no sugar before lunch, they’ll (usually) stick to it with no passive-aggressive comments or eye rolls.
They Don’t Just Talk About Inclusion—They Live It
These grandparents came of age during major cultural shifts. They understand how important it is to raise kids who respect others. Whether it’s talking about race, gender, or identity, they make space for real conversations. They don’t shy away from it—they lean in with love.
They Cheer Loudest for Creativity
Gen X grew up drawing on trapper keepers and recording mixtapes. Now, they encourage grandkids to paint, dance, write, and make noise. Even if the ukulele concert lasts 30 minutes too long, they’re clapping. They know self-expression matters way more than staying inside the lines.
They Never Stopped Learning
Plenty of Gen X grandparents are still taking courses, learning new skills, or exploring random hobbies. Some picked up the guitar after 40. Others finally learned how to cook something besides spaghetti. That curiosity rubs off. When a grandkid sees them trying something new, they start thinking bigger, too.
They Raise Mini Earth Warriors
They were around for Earth Day, the ozone scare, and reusable shopping bags before they were trendy. They teach grandkids to recycle, compost, and care about the planet without being preachy. It’s part of daily life, not a lecture. They lead by example, not by guilt.
They Make Time—Even When It’s Tight
It’s not always grand gestures. Sometimes it’s just showing up. They’ll FaceTime after school, pick up the phone when no one else does, or spend Saturday mornings flipping pancakes. It’s those small, steady moments that kids hold onto later. Being there matters, and they know it.
They Mix the Old with the New, Effortlessly
Gen X grandparents still pass down family recipes or holiday traditions, but they’re also open to adding new ones. Maybe it’s sushi on Thanksgiving or turning bedtime stories into podcasts. They keep what works, toss what doesn’t, and create something that feels like everyone belongs.