Grandma to the Rescue

When school holidays strike, busy working parents often need to enlist the help of the real professionals – grandparents.

The reality of modern life is that often both parent are committed to working, and cannot take enough time to look after their children during every school holiday. Grandparents are a wonderful alternative – they are loving, know the children well and understand the family.

Whether you live near your grandchildren or farther afield, kids love the change in routine that being with Grandma or Grandad brings. Grandparents have an entirely different relationship with their grandchildren than their children and the whole family benefits.

Take the first step

As a grandparent; make the offer. That way, you set the rules. Think about it beforehand and decide what you are willing and able to do. If you would like to have the children come to stay overnight, you are helping them develop independence. If that is too much for you, or circumstances preclude it, maybe a day visit is best. Helping with childcare is absolutely invaluable, and your children will love you for it.

If we think back, time spent with our grandparents as a child was truly memorable and an excellent chance to learn more about our own parents.

Make your own rules

Remember that as a grandparent, you can bend the rules a little – kids love that, but don't go overboard, at the end of the day, parents set boundaries for a reason. That said, an ice cream for morning tea is sometimes just fine, as is staying up a few minutes late.

Have your own routine. It is wonderful if you have saved a few toys and board games that the children only play at your house. If you are intimidated by technology, ask that the children leave their computers and gaming consoles at home. Think of a project they may enjoy and teach your grandchildren a new skill.

Children are stimulating creatures – what may seem overwhelming initially, will be an adventure once you have all settled into it. You may like to plan a trip to the park with a friend and their grandchildren – it eases the load and gives them an opportunity to make new friends.

Next time the school holidays approach, search in your wardrobe and dust off your superhero cape – your children and grandchildren need you!