Congratulations, you're a grandparent! It's a big deal – and an event you may have been anticipating for a long time.
But this transition brings challenges as well as joy. Here are seven tips to help you avoid common new-grandparent pitfalls and handle your new role with flair and grace.
Set the stage for smooth relationships
Right from the get-go, many expecting parents experience tension or a feeling of being torn between two – or even three or four – sets of grandparents forcefully asserting their wishes. It's a recipe for stress that soon-to-be moms and dads definitely don't need.
As much as you can, stay positive, be flexible, and go with the flow. Focus on supporting the expecting parents rather than telling them what you want – they'll appreciate it.
When it comes to visits, especially the all-important first visit to see the baby, be sensitive. You may not be invited to attend the birth or come to the hospital or birth center right afterward. Don't be offended – it's the new mom and dad's decision to make. Same goes if they don't jump on your baby-name suggestions.
It may make life easier for everyone if you communicate directly with the other grandparents – about events like a baby shower, for example – rather than going through the parents-to-be. If you haven't met the other grandparents yet, ask for an introduction.
Finally, if you're divorced from your adult child's other parent, it's a good time to fix any unmended fences. Like it or not, you're going to be sharing grandparenting duties with your ex, as well as with his or her new spouse or partner if there is one. Don't make an already sticky situation any more difficult.
Listen and defer
No matter how many kids you raised or how they turned out, your adult child and his or her spouse or partner are now in charge of the childrearing. Be cautious about offering opinions or advice unless asked directly. And even then, tread lightly and express yourself gently. Read More.
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