10 Ways to Be a Better Grandparent

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The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren is unique and beneficial, allowing for quality time without parenting pressures. Active grandparenting enhances children’s emotional health, supports healthy attachments, and alleviates loneliness. The nature of this time together can vary based on family circumstances—whether through regular visits or living in a multigenerational home. Regardless of the situation, investing effort in building strong relationships with grandchildren is valuable. Strategies and activities for strengthening these bonds help make grandchildren feel loved, respected, and create lasting memories.

Here are the best strategies and activities for strengthening your bond with your grandchildren:

Show Up for Them: You don’t need grand gestures to show your grandchild they’re important. Simple acts like taking their calls, attending their sports games or dance rehearsals, or even volunteering at their school can demonstrate your commitment and strengthen your connection. According to Margie Kertzman, a clinical social worker, participating in your grandchild’s activities is a meaningful way to show you care.

Accept and Respect Boundaries: Having a front-row seat to your kids parenting your grandkids can test your patience. As tempting as it can be to step in with some well-meaning advice now and again, try not to speak up unless advice is specifically requested. Parenting advice and guidance have probably evolved since you raised your kids, so if your child chooses different rules and expectations for their own children, accept and respect that—and don’t take it personally.   

Keep Up to Date with the Latest Safety Guidance: Guidelines for raising children, including issues like giving babies water, using flotation devices, and disciplining, are continually evolving. What was once considered correct may no longer be accurate. To ensure consistency and safety, grandparents should adhere to current parenting rules set by their children’s parents and stay updated on the latest safety standards. Using outdated advice could potentially put grandchildren at risk.

Communicate Regularly: Even if you’re geographically distant from your grandkids, you can maintain regular and meaningful communication through phone calls, texts, or video chats. Learning to use platforms like Zoom or FaceTime can enhance your ability to connect with tech-savvy kids. Additionally, make an effort to follow up on important events they mention, such as sports games or graduations, to show your support and involvement.

Give the Gift of Your Time: Instead of buying material gifts for your grandkids, focus on planning activities to do together as a family. According to Margie Kertzman, giving your time is far more valuable. Experiences like homemade meals, walks, rides, and camping create irreplaceable memories that surpass any material gift.

Share Family Traditions: Recreate family recipes or explore old photo albums with your grandkids to share family history and heritage. Involving them in cooking fosters creativity. Establish new traditions, such as weekly movie nights or regular outings to restaurants or parks, to strengthen emotional bonds and create lasting memories.

Don’t Be Afraid to Play: Regardless of age, free play is a valuable activity for grandchildren. Jennie Lannette Bedsworth, LCSW, suggests finding a shared interest to enjoy together. Free play encourages creativity and experimentation, making it a flexible and enjoyable way to bond.

Keep It Simple: Spending time with your grandkids doesn’t mean you have to plan elaborate or expensive activities. Simply interacting is enough to make the kids feel loved. Engaging in various activities and conversations with your grandchild helps strengthen your bond and creates a safe space for them to share their feelings. This connection can make them feel supported and more comfortable discussing their emotions with you.

Be Supportive and Listen: While sharing advice with your grandkids is important, sometimes they just need someone to listen, offer support, and provide affection. This attentive and caring relationship can positively impact their well-being, especially for queer kids who may need extra support. Grandparents can offer focused attention and empathy, which can be especially valuable when parents are busy or overwhelmed.

Be Empathetic: Generational experiences between you and your grandchild have likely changed significantly, especially with the influence of the internet and social media. While your own struggles might differ, being a supportive listener can be incredibly valuable. Sometimes, they may seek your advice on handling their modern challenges.

Read More: https://childreninfobank.com/safebank/10-ways-to-be-a-better-grandparent-2/

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