From colic to acne, from tantrums to teenage angst--each stage of a grandchild's life brings its own delights and its own challenges. As a loving grandparent, you'll want to be right there, with a helping hand and an understanding heart. This collection of facts, insights and helpful hints will help you be a more effective grandparent for each of the ages and stages of your grandchild's life.
1. Your Baby Grandchild's First Year
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During the first year, you'll not only be getting acquainted with your grandchild, but also working out the details of your new relationship with the baby's parents. The key is to be flexible and diplomatic. Also, you'll need to educate yourself about how parenting practices have changed since you last wielded a pacifier.
2. Toddler Grandchildren
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As your grandchild becomes mobile and begins to talk, you'll want to be there for every step. Just remember that ages one to three are also a time for testing limits! Toddler grandchildren are so adorable and learning so fast, however, that you'll probably forgive their occasional moods.
3. Grandparenting Preschoolers
Photo © Susan Adcox
Ages three to five are fertile ground for grandparenting. Most grandchildren will be starting to school at five, so this is a precious time before homework and friendships encroach on grandparents' time. You'll want to make the most of every opportunity.
4. Grandchildren From 5 to 9
Photo © Susan Adcox
The early school years are a time of great cognitive and physical development. Character formation and the development of a healthy psyche are also crucial steps which take place at this time. Grandparents can help with all of these processes.
5. The Tween Years
Photo © Leslie Sanderson
The changes that tween grandchildren are going through means that they need their grandparents more than ever. Grandparents need their tween grandchildren also; for one thing, they are a lot of fun!
6. Teenagers as Grandchildren
Photo © David Deardorff
Teens have a reputation for being difficult, but grandparents can often manage them with no difficulty. Teens are especially in need of adults other than parents that they can confide in, and grandparents fill that role admirably.
