The pandemic has put a stop to nervous grandparents pacing the waiting room. So, what is the job of a grandparent? It depends on several factors, but mostly it comes down to asking the new parents what they want and trying your best to fulfill their needs
Grandparents Day is on Sunday, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect and celebrate with family and friends. Grandparents and grandchildren (and grandfriends!) share special relationships: Kids bring fresh energy and wonder to the world, and can fill conversations with joy and smiles. Grandparents bring a loving warmth that allows kids to relax and have fun with stories, games, recipes, and routines that differ from the ones they are used to with their parents. Even when you are not able to see grandchildren in person, connecting online with Caribu is an opportunity to meet virtually face-to-face, hear each other’s voices, and share the activities you enjoy the most together.
Even if you’re an expert who has written 13 bestsellers on parenthood, your adult sons and daughters will assume you know nothing about childrearing. Your advice and opinions will not be welcome, unless directly solicited. Tread lightly.
Across the country, multigenerational living situations — whether spurred by the coronavirus pandemic or already in place — are making grandparents starring figures in family life. They’re caring for grandchildren as parents work from home, helping with remote education, doing chores like cooking and yard work, and reading bedtime stories. The result is often a deeper relationship with members of the household.