Do you remember the joy of spending time with your grandparents? I certainly do. My memories are filled with delightful Saturday mornings feasting on pancakes slathered in butter and syrup, watching cartoons until our eyes were bleary, and sneaking candy goodies. Those moments felt like a delightful escape from the everyday grind of childhood, even if my grandpa was always there to keep an eye on things. Time spent with them was like a sweet oasis away from the hustle and bustle of regular life.
Recently, I’ve stumbled upon numerous articles discussing the “dos and don’ts” of grandparenting, as well as complaints from parents about their in-laws. Really? Grandparent etiquette? It’s a puzzling concept when you consider how much parents want to micromanage every aspect of their children’s lives. We fret over their sugar intake, fret about screen time, and sometimes even feel territorial over experiences we wish to share with our kids.
I get it—up to a point. If grandparents are letting your child watch inappropriate content or engage in risky behaviors, that’s a different story. However, the majority of grandparents simply want to shower their grandkids with love and a bit of indulgence. After surviving the parenting marathon with you or your partner, they deserve to relish their role as grandparents and create joyful memories with their grandchildren.
Let’s be honest: a little extra candy, a late bedtime, or an impromptu movie night isn’t going to ruin your children. This isn’t about a battle for parenting supremacy—it’s about grandparents wanting to spoil their grandkids, and they should absolutely have that chance. The rules you enforce around food, bedtime, and safety might feel a bit overprotective, especially given that these same grandparents raised you just fine. They aren’t trying to take over your parenting; they’re just enjoying this special time together and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Not long ago, my three oldest kids spent the night at my in-laws, and they were ecstatic about the freedom from our usual routines. I didn’t ask what they ate for dinner, but I have a hunch it was something fun—maybe pizza or burgers—things we usually save for special occasions. They stayed outside until dark and went to bed way past their usual bedtime. Sure, they were a bit cranky and exhausted the next day, but that’s part of the experience. It really isn’t about me; it’s about creating cherished moments for them.
On that same night, my eldest son got to watch a PG-13 movie with his uncle—something I had been excited to see with him. Of course, I felt a twinge of disappointment not being part of that experience, concerned that he might see things I wished to shield him from. But he talks about that night with such enthusiasm, reveling in the joy of having a special outing with his grandparents. Did he probably see more than I would have liked? Yes, but I trust that my in-laws love him and would never put him in harm’s way.
Absolutely, kids should enjoy more freedom when with their grandparents. They will also learn valuable life lessons and manners that you might not have the time to teach. Grandparents, having already navigated the parenting maze, know what to prioritize and what to let slide. So, give them your blessing to indulge your children a bit. Let them enjoy sweets, stay up late, and indulge in carefree fun. You can handle the aftermath of a sugar rush; your children will come away with lasting memories.
So, let go a little, let them have some fun, and allow those precious moments to flourish. Your kids and their grandparents will thank you for it. Don’t hesitate—start this tradition now because you never know how long these opportunities will last. Someday, the same quirks you see in your parents will be reflected in your children, and you might find yourself wishing you’d let them soak in more of that special grandparent love while they had the chance.
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Summary
Kids should have the freedom to enjoy time with their grandparents without the usual restrictions imposed by parents. Grandparents provide a unique perspective and nurturing that can create lasting memories for children. While parents may worry about rules and regulations, a little indulgence and freedom can enrich the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, ensuring cherished experiences that will carry through life.