Homework

Grand-Parents

I can barely wait to become a grandmother! Having said that, I will be patient while my children decide the right time to become parents. It would help too to have a couple of weddings take place in the interim. I know this sounds provincial in this day and age, but I am somewhat traditional.

I remember with such fond memories my grandparents who were by far the best thing to happen to me in my early life. Grandparents are such wonderful influences in the life of a child. It is amazing the perspective they can bring to the subject of raising children. They can be quite helpful in helping parents to realize that despite the notion that most parents have that they cannot possibly get it all right, somehow, it really does all work out in the end.

If you are a new parent and would like some easy guidelines for including grandparents, here are a few:

  1. Allow the grandparents to give you that much-needed break especially during the first few months. It will help you to adjust to the new schedule of caring for a baby and you will enjoy being a parent so much more.
  2. Talk with the grandparents honestly and openly about your apprehension and concerns in your new role as a parent.
  3. Set a schedule and stick to it. To get used to the idea of sharing your new bundle, schedule enough time to do things like take a shower or take a short nap to catch up on lost sleep. These short visits will allow everyone ample time to adjust.
  4. Be assertive but not controlling. It is important to both parents and grandparents to strike the right balance and to define roles.
  5. Listen to the wisdom of grandparents but remember to trust your instinct too.

Savor the moments!