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“If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
We’ve all heard that one before. And as obvious and easy as it may seem to avoid saying something negative, there are some more controversial subjects in which we may feel like we are just trying to help, but the words might not come out as intended. The good intentions are there, but we have to be careful that our words are gifts and not weapons. Below are five things that should never be said to a grandchild:
Comments about weight
Personally, I avoid any weight comments. Skinny, fat, and anything in between. We never know how a little one may take it, and we don’t want to leave them wondering how they’re supposed to look.
Negative things about appearance choices
Let children dress the way they or their parents want them to look. Regardless of what we think, it does no good to confront the grandkids about it…
Never compare them to other children
Never compare the grandchildren to other kids, including their own siblings. Even a compliment such as “your brother is so smart” in the wrong tone or context can send the wrong message.
Don’t tell them anything bad about their parents
Never talk down about their parents in front of the grandchildren. Not only do they not understand the circumstances surrounding the subjects, we never want to make them look bad or make it seem okay for the kids to question Mom and Dad and their rules.
Never say “never”
A saying as old as time itself, and for good reason: It’s a great one! “Never” is so final and implies a close-mindedness.
As always, if there’s a concern, talk to their parents in private. Words can have a way of just flying out of mouths before thinking on them, and they can’t be taken back. If we just focus on the positive at all times, we’ll be in good shape! 🙂
