There are many reasons why a relationship with a grandparent is important for a child. A lot of parents have fond memories of their own grandparents and all the fun things they did together. There are always stories about how moms would bake with their grandmother’s, or go fishing with their grandfather. While there are always mothers who had strained relationships with their grandparents, either scenario can make it important for a mom to try and make sure that her child(ren) have a close relationship with their grandparents. Since we live in a modern and fast world, it can seem like this relationship is not the same as it was when we were kids.
According to Wilmington Parent, there are numerous reasons how a relationship with a grandparent can benefit a child. A child who has a strong relationship with their grandparents can have an extra sense of security. There have been studies that have shown that a close relationship between a teenager and a grandparent reduces the rate of behavioral and emotional problems, and it is important to nurture that relationship starting when a child is much younger.
Mom may be wondering how she can help to get a grandparent more involved in her child’s life, and we have some tips.
Communication
If your parents have not had a close relationship with your child, communication should be the first step. According to Romper, it is important to have open and honest conversations with your parents (or your partners) about what is going on. There may be some tension left over from the parent-child relationship that needs to be worked through. This can be tough, and it may involve some hard feelings, but if all involved can remember that resolving any issues is for the child’s benefit, they can get through it.
Do Family Activities Together
According to Huffington Post, one of the best ways to make sure a bond is formed and is strong is to start with activities together. If you are loading up the kids to go to a festival or a hike, ask the grandparents to come along with you. That way everyone is together, and your parents (or in-laws) feel like they are being included in family gatherings. This may be helpful for grandparents who have not been that involved in your child’s life until this point. It can help everyone start to feel more comfortable together.
One of the boundaries to a close bond between grandparent and grandchild is distance. Some grandparents do not live in the same city or state as their grandchildren, and this can be difficult. To make this work, mom should be using the modern world to her advantage. Arrange weekly phone or video calls together and keep that line of communication open.
What Not To Do
If mom already has a good relationship with her parents and her in-laws, it can be easy to call on them when you need someone to watch your children because you have an errand to run or you just want a break. They are someone you trust, and you know they will take care of your children. However, if you want to make sure that a bond exists between your child and their grandparents, make sure you don’t abuse this privilege. This could lead to resentment, and a reluctance to want to come and help if grandparents feel like they are being used as a “free” babysitter.
Sources: Wilmington Parent, Romper, Huffington Post