5 powerful ways to make a difference in your grandchildren’s lives

As a grandparent, you can play an important role in your grandchildren’s lives.

This might involve offering practical and financial support, such as helping with childcare and school fees. You could also make an important contribution to your grandchildren’s social, cognitive, and behavioural development.

According to the National Library of Medicine, grandparents are increasingly shaping their grandchildren’s wellbeing, due in part to longer average life expectancies. Indeed, the nurturing bond that can develop between these generations is likely to influence their health and may lead to more positive life choices.

Keep reading to discover five powerful ways you could offer a steady and nurturing presence in your grandchildren’s lives.

1. Support your children as parents without undermining them

It’s not always easy to let your children parent in their own way. For one, you’ve been there, done that. Secondly, your child will always be your child, no matter how old they are!

However, respecting the role of your children as parents is crucial for maintaining a strong bond with them and your grandchildren. What’s more, presenting a united front as a family provides stability and comfort.

In contrast, trying to impose rules or values on your grandchildren that conflict with those set by their parents could lead to misunderstandings, confusion, anxiety, and conflict.

If you have concerns about your children’s family, pick a private moment to discuss it with them directly, away from little ears. This could be an effective way to foster open, honest, yet supportive communication.

2. Engage in activities your grandchildren love

Parents with young families are often juggling multiple responsibilities, from work commitments and play dates, to food shopping and paying the bills.

They may have limited time and energy remaining to spend quality time with their children doing the things they love.

That’s where you come in.

Joining your grandchildren in hobbies and activities they enjoy – be that playing games in the park, reading, or baking – is a great way to show them how special they are to you. Sharing a passion, knowledge, and even a vocabulary could also help you build a meaningful bond.

Sometimes, the most important thing you can do as a grandparent is simply to be present.

3. Role model positive traits

Children often learn their core values and ways of behaving from watching others.

By modelling positive traits such as empathy, kindness, respect, and integrity, you can help your grandchildren become a positive part of their family, school, and broader community.

You’ll probably do much of this without thinking about it, such as saying “please” and “thank you” to others.

Alternatively, you could use role modelling intentionally to help your grandchildren overcome more difficult behaviours or thought patterns. For example, if they’re nervous about swimming, you and your family might want to show them how safe and fun being in the pool can be by splashing around with confidence.

4. Pass on family stories and traditions

Every family has its unique stories and traditions. Sharing these with your grandchildren can create a sense of belonging that makes them feel safe and loved.

What’s more, talking about your family’s culture and history may help both your children and grandchildren feel closer and more connected to you.

You might like to:

• Encourage your grandchildren to engage with their family history by asking questions
• Use a family heirloom as a prompt for talking about your family
• Record videos of you talking about yourself and your family
• Write a letter or journal to pass on to your grandchildren
• Make sharing family anecdotes a part of everyday life
• Work on a family history project together.

5. Celebrate your grandchildren’s achievements

When you have a strong bond with your grandchildren, your seal of approval and encouragement are likely to mean a lot to them.

As such, celebrating their achievements could boost their self-esteem and motivate them to continue progressing.

This is your chance to enjoy the fun side of grandparenting – showering them with love, praise, and possibly, gifts!

Get in touch

Our financial planners in Bristol help clients manage their finances at all stages of their lives.

Whether you’re interested in making the most of your retirement income or want to create an estate plan for passing on your wealth tax-efficiently to your children and grandchildren, we can help.

Email helpme@aspirellp.co.uk or call 0117 9303510.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning or tax planning.