A survey on social attitudes of Singaporeans in 2013 by the Ministry of Social and Family Development shows that 97% of respondents felt that it is important for grandparents and their grandchildren to maintain close ties with each other.

That is why Families for Life Council is working with schools and community partners to encourage children to cherish extended family ties and their grandparents. In line with the International Day of Older Persons (1 Oct), “Celebrating our Grands” aims to show appreciation to the seniors/ Grandparents amongst us for their contributions to society. It is also timely that the initiative is happening in the same week as Children’s Day, as we see it as a good opportunity to promote values such as appreciation for grandparents from a young age, and for grandchildren to spend quality time with their grandparents over the long weekend.

“Celebrating our Grands” involves students from over 30 schools, including pre-schools who will make a personalised gift to show their appreciation for their grandparents, and present the gift to them on 6 October. This craft activity aims to promote positive family values such as filial piety, care and concern for the older extended family members from a young age. Importantly, this initiative will help Singaporeans see the importance of looking beyond immediate family members to reach out to the older extended family members and nurture stronger ties with them.

Families can also participate in this craft activity at National Arts Council’s Silver Arts Festival , National Library Board during the weekend on 29 and 30 September.

Look out for animated e-greeting GIFs from Families for Life on our Facebook page @FamiliesforLife.sg and this page that you can download and share with your grandparents.

  Or join us on WhatsApp to receive the e-greeting messages for festive seasons and family occasions!

Save our WhatsApp service number 83390469 to your contacts list and send us a WhatsApp message saying "Hi FFL" with your name eg. [Hi FFL, I am (name)]. We will send you a e-greeting via WhatsApp.