About Us

I’m Paul, the grandparent behind Dear Grand.
I’m “Granddad” to two autistic grandkids who have completely reshaped how I see love, family, and what it means to show up.

For a long time, I noticed something that never sat right with me:
Most “grandparent gifts” were loud, cheesy, or built on jokes about getting old. And most “autism” gifts were either pity‑based or so loud and busy that they didn’t feel like something our family would actually want in our home—or on our bodies.

Meanwhile, my real life as a grandparent looked very different.

It was:

  • Waiting outside therapy sessions and IEP meetings, ready with a snack and a soft place to land.
  • Learning about sensory needs, routines, and meltdowns—not to fix my grandkids, but to understand them.
  • Sitting on the couch watching the same show or talking about the same special interest for the hundredth time, because that was their way of connecting.
  • Wanting to wear something that said, “I’m proud to be their grandparent,” without turning them into a spectacle or a slogan.

I went looking for gifts and clothing that reflected that reality—calm, dignified, and neurodiversity‑affirming. I didn’t find much. So I started Dear Grand.

What Dear Grand Stands For

Dear Grand exists for grandparents who are walking unique journeys, especially those loving and advocating for autistic grandkids.

We believe:

  • Autism is not a tragedy. It’s one way of being human.
  • Grandparents are quiet advocates. We may not always be center stage, but we are often the safe place, the steady presence, and the extra pair of hands.
  • Gifts shouldn’t rely on pity or guilt. They should reflect pride, respect, and real everyday love.
  • Calm is a value. Not every message has to shout. Many autistic kids and their families already live in a world that feels too loud.

That’s why our designs are simple, soft, and centered on relationships—grandparents as safe places, steady supporters, and people who love their grandkids exactly as they are.

How We Design

Every piece starts with a question:

“Would I feel good wearing this around my own autistic grandkids—and around autistic adults?”

If the answer isn’t a clear yes, we don’t make it.

We avoid:

  • “Fixing” language and savior narratives
  • Jokes about being a burden
  • Over‑the‑top “awareness” graphics that make kids into symbols instead of people

We lean into:

  • Messages about being a safe place and an advocate
  • Calm colors and clean typography
  • Everyday comfort that works for school events, therapy days, and quiet time at home

Who We’re For

Dear Grand is for you if:

  • You’re a grandparent of autistic grandkids (or other neurodivergent kids) and want to show quiet, steady pride.
  • You’re a parent looking for a gift that honors the grandparent who really gets your child.
  • You believe love doesn’t depend on milestones or “normal”—it grows in routines, interests, and small daily moments.

A Note From Me

I didn’t start Dear Grand as a big “business idea.”
I started it because I wanted something I could wear and use that matched the way I show up for my grandkids—calm, present, and on their side.

If anything you find here helps you feel a little more seen in your role as a grandparent, then this work is worth it.

With respect,
Paul
Granddad to two brilliant autistic kids and founder of Dear Grand