The image that most children have of their grandparents is that of a safe place, that is, people who will give them all the attention and affection they want. Those family members who will tend to take their side and spoil them. Sometimes even too much. So it is worth asking ourselves a question: “Are we spoiling our grandchildren?” And not all grandparents know when to say no to their grandchildren. However, the ability to set limits is essential.
Give them one meal or another, allow them to do or not do certain activities, offer them freedoms that they do not usually have in their parents’ house. Grandparents have to be cautious with their grandchildren and what their role is in raising them. However, the ideal is to reach a middle point, without being too demanding, as child psychologist Margot Futé advises. “Grandparents bring love, experience, tranquility and patience, and we must keep all this in mind and find a balance:”. So, although with some flexibility, the ideal will be for grandparents to learn to set limits.
Many times, when there is a possibility, parents turn to grandparents to take care of or spend time with their grandchildren. In those moments when they are not there, children are often spoiled by them. The first step in establishing limits is for the family to make clear what the norms and rules are that everyone must follow. This should be discussed between adults and also with minors.
In this way, the process of establishing limits will be easier, since minors will know these lines that they should not cross. And grandparents will also be more aware of when to say no or cut off certain behaviors or attitudes.
