40 Genius Hacks For Grandparents We Wish We Knew About Sooner

You can usually find at least one shelf full of guides on parenting in your local bookstore. But when it comes to grandparenting, guidance’s often thin on the ground. If you’re about to become one, or are already struggling with being one, here are 40 tips that should help. And some you may find more surprising than others.

40. Embrace a “Yes, and” frame of mind

“Yes, and” is a vital ploy in the world of improvisational comedy. But who knew that it could also be an invaluable two words in the world of grandparenting? That simple utterance when responding to a child’s suggestion shows that you’ve not only acknowledged it but want to expand on it, too.

39. Don’t spoil  

One of the most joyous things about being a grandparent is being able to give out treats. But don’t overdo things. Yes, your grandkids will love being showered with candy and toys. Your own kids, on the other hand, won’t appreciate being undermined if they’ve put a limit on such goodies.

38. Educate yourself 

You might feel that you nailed the whole parenting thing when you were a mom or dad. But things change quickly in the world of raising kids. Make sure you’re up on all the latest developments in child safety, nutrition, and health by swotting up on information that’s been published within at least the past decade.

37. Swerve any comparisons 

One thing a new mom or dad doesn’t want to hear is how ideal another person’s parenting life is. Your comments might seem entirely innocuous to you. But talking about how a grandchild of a friend is a perfect sleeper or fast learner will only make your offspring feel inadequate about their own abilities.