A baby indeed is a blessing to every family. Nothing compares to the joy that newborns give to both their parents and grandparents. You may have mastered parenting all throughout the years, but with being a grandparent for the first time, you`ll have a lot to learn, too. But with the right approach, you`ll be a wonderful new grandparent in your child’s and your grandchild`s eyes!
Here are 5 grandparenting tips for first-timers:
Remember, they`re your grandchildren, not your children
If you have a set of rules for raising your children, don`t expect the same ones to apply to your grandkids, unless of course, the parents enforced them. Allow your child and his/her partner to raise their little one their own way – don`t expect a ringside seat and don`t offer unsolicited advice. If new parents are asking you for advice, they’re asking for your advice. Be sure to respect the parents’ choices and boundaries.
Call Forward
Coping with your newborn grandchild is very difficult and you can be with them 24/7. As hard as it is to resist, don’t go in alone every time. Be sure to call ahead for plans – new parents are under constant pressure and don’t have to deal with unannounced guests, even if they are visiting family. Always Offer Help Giving birth to a new baby at home is a really amazing but very sensitive time.
Always offer to help and ask if the spouse or child needs anything, but don’t insist. Offer to pick up the baby to give mom a nap or shower time. Being present and helpful from day one shows the new family that you care about them and that you are someone they can count on.
Don’t judge
Shower your grandchild with love and gifts, there’s nothing wrong with that, but remember that grandparents are not a competitive sport. Don’t compete with other grandparents or anyone else – it’s never about who gave the biggest or most expensive gift, it’s about keeping it light and cheerful.
Be there for the new parents
People are so amazed by the cute new baby that they forget to ask how the new parents are doing. They are also going through a big adjustment and know they have a strong support system.
Become a fabulous new grandparent in no time – follow these simple grandparenting tips!
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