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When you’re a grandma, you are entitled to spoil the living daylights out of your grandchild. Isn’t it “grand”? While we want to give these children the world and hang the moon for them, we must find a healthy balance to not turn them into entitled little zombies.
What does this balance look like?
It may seem like an oxymoron, but you can spoil your grandchild without overindulging them, which you can do with a bit of practice and self-awareness:
How to spoil your grandkids without overindulging them
It’s tempting to buy those sweet little humans anything and everything you see in commercials and stores, but this can have a detrimental effect on their attitude and overall demeanor. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t “spoil” them in other ways, like:
Quality time
Spend one-on-one time with each grandchild, engaging in activities they enjoy or exploring new hobbies together.
Encouragement
Provide positive reinforcement, support, and encouragement in everything they do. (This pays off tenfold and can also build their confidence and self-esteem!)
Reading together
Foster a love of reading by sharing favorite books or discovering new ones. If you must buy them something (hey, we are grandmas – we can’t help it!), make it a great book or series.
Outdoor activities
Encourage a healthy lifestyle by participating in outdoor activities like hiking or gardening.
Emotional support
Provide a safe space for your grandchildren to express their feelings and offer guidance and support when needed.
Celebrate achievements
Acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments, both big and small, to build self-esteem.
Gift-giving
I know, I know… I, too, get that grandma itch to buy something! When you purchase something, thoughtfully select meaningful gifts that promote personal growth, such as books, art supplies, or educational games.
Arts and crafts
Engage in creative projects together, such as painting, knitting, or pottery. Not only are these activities fun, but they are also a great way to build or strengthen your bond.
Special outings
Plan special outings or trips to educational and recreational spots, such as museums, parks, or festivals.
Cooking together
Teach the grands how to make traditional family recipes or explore new cuisines. Yum!
The effects of not spoiling your grandkids in the traditional sense
We all know a child who is spoiled rotten, and we can all agree that they aren’t pleasant to be around. By not giving into your grandchild(ren)’s every whim, you, grandma, are doing your part in raising a well-rounded human who is more responsible for their actions and grateful for what they have.
Promoting gratitude and responsibility in children is essential for nurturing their emotional intelligence, fostering empathy, and developing a strong sense of self. By cultivating these values, children become more aware of their actions, appreciate the positive aspects of their lives, and create a sense of responsibility for their behavior and its consequences.
Conclusion
While it is hard not to give an enthusiastic yes to every little thing, it is better in the end for your grandkids and your wallet, too! Keep doing what you’re doing, Grandma – no one can love those grandbabies quite like you. As always, let’s talk again soon.
