What Gram Remembers was inspired by my time working as an Activity Director at a nursing home. I often noticed that fewer people visited the memory care wing—and even more rarely did children come. But when someone did bring children, the entire wing lit up. The residents came alive with smiles, laughter, and energy.

Around Christmas, I began encouraging church youth groups to include the memory wing in their visits. Many told me they’d been advised not to, for fear it might upset the children. After talking with them, most agreed to give it a try—and many made it a regular part of their outreach from then on.

I understand the desire to protect our children. But how can they learn empathy if we shield them from every difficult moment? With gentle guidance and care, children can experience the deep joy of bringing comfort to others and the unforgettable feeling of making someone smile.

Let’s not rob them of those powerful, meaningful memories.