3 Tips For Being A Good Grandparent
Being a parent is a wonderful adventure in love, compassion, and above all, patience. However, many people say that being a grandparent can be even better. Not only do you get to reap all of the benefits of parenting, but you don't have the responsibility and stress that comes along with it. However, make no mistake about it—you still have your job cut out for you. In order to make sure that you're a fantastic grandparent, make sure that you do the following things.
Don’t Get Stuck In Your Ways
It's so easy for people past retirement age to feel confused by the changing trends around them. Music may sound outlandish, fashions may look downright absurd, and politics may leave you feeling like you don't even recognize the world you're living in. However, one of the best things you can do is to evolve and accept that the world around you is always changing.
Don't be the grandparent that judges their grandchildren, or makes them feel like they don't embrace who they are. Even though their fashion or language may not line up with the culture you were brought up in, it's your job to accept them as they are if you hope to be close.
Avoid getting stuck in a time bubble and becoming that stereotype of an old nagging grandparent. All you will do is isolate yourself in the end.
Spend Wonderful Moments With Your Grandkids
Depending on where you live, you may not be able to see your grandkids all the time. That's why it's important that when you do spend time together you make the moments special. Spend quality time together, and seek out activities that they will cherish and remember forever.
Just make sure that their activities that your grandchildren will appreciate too. For example, asking them to organize your stamp collection with you may not be as fun for them as it might be for you. Instead, try to create a happy medium between your interests and theirs.
Be Encouraging
One of the greatest things you can give a child is the gift of encouragement. Encourage who they are, tell them there are enough, and motivate them to keep going when things get difficult. Children these days already have enough pressure coming at them from everywhere. Between school, their own parents, and the media, it's hard not to feel inadequate in today's world. Be their ally, not their enemy, and encourage them before you criticize. Even though you may feel like sometimes your life experience gives you the upper hand, don't be condescending, but instead lead with love.
Remember, as much as it might feel like you're going to be there forever, you won't always be able to be there for your grandkids. Make your moments with them now count, and they will cherish their relationship with you for years to come.