The kids have learned a lot from having Grandpa live here.
Here are five specific ways:
1. Learning to take care of family
By showing our kids that we love family and take care of them, Bryan and I are increasing our odds that our kids will want to take care of us.
If we turned Dad out, and found a nice “home” for him so we could visit once a week, or once a month (or less), our kids would just assume that as a normal course of action.
Family needs to take care of each other.
2. Listening to Others
Sometimes for a homeschooling family, the kids get used to listening to mom all day, and aren’t routinely exposed to other adults (except Daddy). Having Grandpa around gives them another person who cares about them to listen to. It’s taken a bit of training on my part, but the kids are all pretty good at listening to Grandpa now.
3. Someone to Talk To
Life can be busy. Sometimes more than one child needs mom at the same time, just to share something exciting. Grandpa offers another pair of ears. It’s nice to have someone to talk to!
4. Occasional Spoiling
Grandparents get away with letting kids bend some rules that parents can’t. I love it when Dad loves on the kids. He gives them a piece of candy once in a while, or picks up a new movie for them. He shares his comic books with Jayme, and snuggles with Simon when it’s his bedtime.
Watching the relationship grow between Grandpa and grandkids is so sweet.
What benefits can you add to this list?
