The Blessings of Being a Grandmother
In honor of Mother’s Day, coming up this Sunday, I wanted to take a bit of time to reflect on the blessings of being a grandmother, aka Gammie.
One of the biggest blessings of being a grandma is that we have more TIME….time behind us, time at the present moment and time in the future to be a rock solid “balcony person” cheering for our grandkids. As Grandmas we have years of experience and a seasoned ability to understand the heart needs of our children and grandchildren. We have learned how to prioritize the urgent needs and let some of the not so urgent things wait until tomorrow. We can spend more time observing, listening, and guiding with affirmations and encouragement. We can take the time to build up their character by pointing out qualities that we see in our grandchildren’s personality and temperament. Spending time with our grandkids can also help them navigate through their emotions. We can look for ways to teach them the language of emotions so they have tools to express themselves when they are frustrated, angry, lonely, sad or afraid. So often the acting out that turns into a temper tantrum is an emotion that they can not identify or express. I hope and pray the as each one of my grandkids grows up, they will have a strong foundation built on God’s unconditional love for them. I also hope and pray that they will know how much I love and support them and that this will give them the freedom and security to share their hearts with me. As grandmas, we can be committed to teaching by example, loving without limits and serving with a sincere heart.
Things I have learned that will help you encourage your own adult children and their spouses:
Be a cheerful consultant NOT an unwanted advice giver.
Give advice only when asked (unless it is a matter of safety or security).
Honor their rules.
Focus on what really matters, use wisdom to guide your tongue.
Support their childrearing style.
Be an encourager pointing out the things they are doing well.
Read books, blogs, articles that might help them with the struggles they are facing with their kids so you are ready with up to date advice if they ask for help.
Join or start a “Grandma Group” to share about the joys and challenges you face as a grandma.
Do not question their decisions.
Do not “tell” them what to do when you see a problem, ask questions so they can feel your care and concern as you help them figure it out for themselves.
Be available and listen with all your heart when your kids call to chat-be ready to read between the lines and ask thought provoking and sometimes hard questions.
If you have a deep faith conviction, check with your kids before you share with your grandkids.
LISTEN, HEAR, AFFIRM and ENCOURAGE!!!!!
Things to have at your home to make visits easier for your kids and grandkids:
Books and toys
Diapers and wipes
Extra clothes of all sizes
Blankets and towels
Stroller
Crib or porta crib
High Chair or booster seat
Art supplies
Lots of time and love
When your grandkids come for a visit either for a day or a week…BE PREPARED…have lots of their favorite things, plan some fun activities, do some research so you have ideas of fun places to go that they will love, plan kid friendly meals, have tons of their favorite snacks….HAVE A TON OF FUN!
Being a grandmother is one of the most rewarding relationship opportunities you will ever have. Cherish this privilege with all your heart and do whatever it takes to establish a life long relationship with each one of your precious grandchildren.
