Grandparenting Dos and Don'ts

Do enjoy spending time with the grandchildren and showering them with unconditional love.

Do enjoy spending time with the grandchildren and showering them with unconditional love.

Do pass on family stories to give grandchildren a sense of their place in the family.

Do share wisdom. Grandchildren are often more willing to ask advice from grandparents than parents.

Don't be a disciplinarian Grandparents may indeed have greater experience and wisdom, but should not criticise their children's parenting methods, even when they know they are wrong.

Don't let yourself be taken advantage of because being asked to do too much childcare is not in anyone's best interest.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone

  • Listen to In The News podcast daily for a deep dive on the stories that matter