Grandparent Parenting Guide

Help from grandma and grandpa is a huge blessing. Create happy parenting for everyone through intergenerational communication.

Benefits of Grandparent Involvement

For Baby

• Emotional security: Multiple attachment figures
• Social development: Interaction with different adults
• Family bonds: Connection across three generations
• Wisdom and experience: Stories, traditions

For Parents

• Reduced childcare burden
• Work-life balance possible
• Rest time secured
• Financial help: Savings on childcare costs

For Grandparents

• Life vitality
• Bond with grandchildren
• Family role
• Health benefits: Active lifestyle

Generational Differences: What's Changed

Sleep

• Then: Tummy sleeping, using blankets
• Now: Back to sleep, no loose blankets or pillows
• Why: SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) prevention

Starting Solids

• Then: Start at 3-4 months with rice cereal
• Now: Start at 6 months with iron-rich foods
• Why: WHO/AAP recommendations

Baby Walkers

• Then: Thought to help walking
• Now: Not recommended
• Why: Injury risk, doesn't help development

Fever Treatment

• Then: Rush to ER for any fever
• Now: Give fever reducer at 100.4°F+, observe baby's condition

Feeding

• Then: Formula seen as superior
• Now: Breastfeeding recommended (when possible)

Communication Strategies

What Parents Should Do

• Show respect: Appreciate their experience and effort
• Explain calmly: Why things are different (no criticism)
• Share resources: Watch videos, read books together
• Use doctor authority: "The pediatrician said to do this"
• Give choices: Let them decide on smaller matters

Phrases to Avoid

• "That's not how it's done anymore" (dismissive)
• "Your way is wrong"
• "Why do you always do it this way?"

Better Phrases

• "Recent research shows this is better"
• "The doctor recommended this approach"
• "Can we try this together?"

Dividing Roles

Be Clear About

• Care schedule: Days, times
• Meals: Who prepares
• Sleep routine: Consistent method
• Discipline: Shared standards
• Screen time: TV, phone usage

Be Flexible About

• Play style
• Snacks (within reason)
• Outings

Tips for Grandparents

Physical Health

• Don't overdo it: Be honest about limits
• Rest: Nap when baby naps
• Health checks: Regular checkups
• Back/knees: Use furniture, not floor

Safety Updates

• Learn infant CPR
• Know choking response
• Install safety items
• Save emergency contacts

Setting Boundaries

• Designate days off
• Be honest when tired
• Maintain hobbies

Handling Conflicts

Common Disagreements

• Feeding: "They need to eat more"
• Clothing: "They'll get cold, dress them warmer"
• Crying: "Don't pick them up right away or you'll spoil them"
• Discipline: "They need to be scolded" vs "Don't scold them"

Solutions

• Stand firm only on important issues (safety, health)
• Let go of small things
• Parents present a united front
• Discuss later when emotions are high

Showing Gratitude

• Say it: "Thank you," "Baby is growing so well thanks to you"
• Gifts: Even small ones
• Meals out: Treat them occasionally
• Days off: Give grandparents their own time
• Photos/videos: Send grandchild pictures often

Final Thoughts

Grandparent involvement is intergenerational teamwork. When you acknowledge and appreciate each other's efforts, it creates the best environment for baby.

Perfect agreement isn't necessary - respect and communication are key. Remember you're a team raising this child together!