10 top tips for a new Grandma:
Every new Grandma can use some advice – here are my 10 top tips for a new Grandma.
It all starts when you get the news – “You’re going to be a Grandma!”. You may have seen it coming, heard “rumors” that they’re trying, or understand the heartbreak they’ve already been through hoping to become parents. You may have not even seen it coming! However it came to this point, doesn’t matter. Grandparenting has stepped into your future. Are you ready?
Offer advice if asked.
This applies to everything baby-related beginning with the time you hear the news. The parents-to-be will find their way or ask for advice from you if they need it. Baby “procedures” have changed since you became a parent yourself. Give non-judgemental, non-critical advice when asked. It’s a scary thing, being pregnant, wondering what’s in store, for Mom & Dad alike, and taking that new baby home. Especially for first-time parents. Allow them time to find their way, but be there when you’re needed. Be a supportive new Grandma.
Be there, but not in the way.
Let the new parents know you are available and ready to help. But don’t go overboard. Being a new parent can be stressful and challenging. Don’t give them more reasons to worry. Allow them to enjoy their time with their new little family. Be an available new Grandma.
Keep your opinions to yourself.
Suppress the urge to correct, judge or criticize the decisions made about the care of the new baby. Unless you actually see imminent harm coming to the child, it’s better to discuss your concerns with an understanding attitude than the “what in the world are you thinking?” approach. Be a kind new Grandma.
Get your home ready.
If you want the chance to babysit or even have your Grandchild visit your home, you need to make it safe and comfortable. Check for dangers and remove or replace what needs attention. Have supplies on hand, like wipes, a few diapers, a blanket, and maybe a crib or portable sleeping arrangements. Your children will be more likely to leave the child in your care or come for a visit if they feel comfortable in your home. Knowing the baby is safe and that a few emergency supplies are available will help to ease their minds. Be a conscientious new Grandma.
Get your camera ready.
As a new Grandma, you’ll probably be excited to take photos of this little one. Don’t forget to take your camera, or at least your phone, when you visit. Make your visits the priority, though. Instead of trying for the perfect photo, try for the perfect connection. Have someone else snap a few pictures of you with your new Grandchild. When they are a little older, they will love seeing themselves as a baby and will know that you were there. Be an interested new Grandma.
Start your memory keeping efforts.
Begin the process of memory keeping as soon as you discover you’ll be a Grandma. Start a journal, record how you’re feeling, write stories of their birth from your perspective. Make a memory book, scrapbook or photo album. You could even start a blog. Choose a method, or a combination of methods, to preserve these precious moments. Babies aren’t babies for very long – help yourself remember the days. Be a storytelling new Grandma.
Pick your name.
What will your Grandchild and future Grandchildren call you? Nana, Mimi, Grandma, Granny? Decide on a name that will distinguish you from other Grandparents. When the parents refer to you, the child will understand that they are talking about you. Be a recognized new Grandma.
Buy a few children’s books.
Reading to a child is a great way to connect. Have books available to read while you snuggle. Hearing your voice, getting to know you, and starting an appreciation for reading early are only a few of the reasons reading to your Grandchild is important. Be an educational new Grandma.
Love this child.
Another important tip for the new Grandma – every child is different. No two people are alike, and your Grandchild should be perfect in your eyes. Accept this child unconditionally, expressing your love at every opportunity. They are only little once. Your relationship with your Grandchild starts the first moments you are together. This bond you’re forming will be off to a good start! Be a loving Grandma.
Share the love.
There are other people in this child’s life that want to show their love, too. Be considerate and welcoming of those who want to know your Grandchild. As they say, it takes a village. Graciously giving space to others will serve to enrich your own experiences with your little person. He or she has enough love to go around. Be a generous Grandma.
Becoming a Grandparent can be a rewarding, fulfilling experience for everyone involved. Make an effort to be the best Grandma in the world. Babies will see you as that “best” Grandma in the beginning, so start the connection early, and keep it up! It’s SO worth it!
Keep Passing Down the Love,
You might also like:
Local and Long-Distance Grandparents: Making it Work
OVERzealous Grandma: Setting Boundaries for Grandparents
Being a New Grandma is an Adventure
Fabulous post! All are so very true. Especially this: “Graciously giving space to others will only enrich your own experiences with your little person. ”
Great to meet yet another grandma in the midlife FB group! Cheers to the grandmahood! ♥
Thanks so much, Lisa! I’m enjoying making new online friends, as well! Glad you stopped in!
I just love this post! I agree with everything as a new grandma myself, I’ve done a lot of things already.
There’s just nothing like being a Grandma. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for taking time to comment, and come again!
All good points, Kimberly. You must be a wonderful grandma. It’s a talent to be there enough without being overbearing. And by being there, I mean emotionally, physically, and with your advice. Some of my fondest memories are of snuggling with my grandchildren while reading books. Thanks of sharing your tips on #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty.
You’re right, Christie. There’s a fine line. And it depends on the children, too – how much of your involvement is too much for them. Being aware and respectful goes a long way. Thanks for stopping by!
Congrats Kimberly! Your post is Featured at the #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty 25 ♥
Wow, what an honor! Thank you!
As much as you can, stay positive, be flexible, and go with the flow. Focus on supporting the expecting parents rather than telling them what you want – they’ll appreciate it.