How can a grandparent help?

What a wonderful grandparent you are. One thing that my Mum did for me that I appreciate so much is make meals for our freezer. She used to back delicious meals for our family like lasagna, shepherds pie, chicken curry, tuna moray, fried rice...and so on. She used to make them in foil containers that were easy to heat in the oven and they also stacked well in the freezer. As my husband and I both work, this was such a helpful thing because i knew my family was still getting a great meal on those days when I came home tired and didn't feel like cooking. She has been such a blessing to us in this way.

You are so thoughtful! Your son/daughter and your grandkids are so lucky to have you around. In the same way, I am so lucky to have my mom pitch in for me and my husband whenever we need someone for the kids. Sometimes, I need to ask her while oftentimes, she would volunteer to take over and be with my kids as much as she can.

I don't remember having to ask her during most of the times that we needed her help, but somehow, I think she just know and feel it. I'll be surprised to see her at our doorstep or even call us late at night to see if she can come and hang out with the kids.

I don't expect my mom to say yes all the time or to volunteer but I know how much she loves my kids and I know she won't mind us asking every once in a while. Her wisdom in raising kids is also much appreciated although, of course, we have our own "style" on parenting we gladly listen to her suggestion perhaps because it sounds as if she is just telling a story and we really do not feel like she is imposing on something, particularly on how to raise our children.

Maybe you can ask your son/daughter if they can bring the kids over and tell them to go out on a date or maybe do some errands. It is actually a big help for parents that grandparents can offer even just a little time for the kids. You can also tell them that if they need someone to look over the kids, you are available should your schedule permit.

Taking care of grandchildren is not an obligation for grandparents, but it can surely make you happy spending every minute with them.

This is a lovely thought… having a young child myself without regular grandparent support for my little one, had really highlighted the gap for our family. I would have loved for my daughter’s grandparents to talk to her about their lives growing up while showing her old photos and things important to them.
Plus a couple of hours to go out and about now and then for a parent break, would be wonderful while also keeping a connection to the family.

As someone who grew up very close (both in a relationship and because they were my neighbors) to my grandparents, my parents are also playing a very large role in my children's lives.

You're right, babysitting 5 days a week is a lot and not necessarily the role of a grandparent. My grandparents were my primary caregivers a lot because my parents traveled for work. In the end, it was great being so close to them, but the relationship was definitely different.

My kids will do a sleepover once every few weeks with my parents. This is very helpful for me and my partner to get things done around the house, spend time together, and spend time with our youngest, who is one. The little babysitting adventures are always helpful. I think most parents would enjoy the break, even if it's just for a few hours.

I also love when the grandparents take them on different excursions. I think it's great for them to have this exploring relationship. They will take them to a park, out to eat, or to a museum.

Enjoy this time with your grandkids. Our parents always say it's such a different experience with grandchildren!