5 Benefits of a Multi-Generational Household

On days when I realize that if the kids were to mutiny, I’d be in big trouble, I’m thankful that Dad lives here! Having another adult around during the day has been a huge help at times.

Here are five specific benefits of a multi-generational household

Child Care

Now, Dad isn’t up to completely watching the kids. Owen especially is hard for Dad, as Owen has gotten super strong lately.

But…we have been able to have Jayme babysit, feeling much more comfortable knowing that an adult was in the house in case of emergencies!

Even if I’m just outside in the barn, Dad offers a competent pair of eyes to help keep an eye on the situation. He calls my cell or sends someone out to fetch me if I’m needed.

That is huge. I’m very thankful for this benefit, though I don’t ever want to take advantage of Dad!

Bonding with Grandkids

Our kids weren’t very close to my dad prior to him moving in. Our schedules didn’t align often, and we just didn’t see him.

Now, the kids see him. They’re used to him. They kiss him goodnight, and read stories to him. It’s been a blessing to see their bond grow. Grandparents play an important role in the lives of kids, and having so many grandparents nearby is great!

Blockbuster!

My dad likes movies. He almost always has the movies we want to watch. Before he moved in, when we would visit, he’d always send us home with movies to borrow. He was our Blockbuster, only better because there weren’t late fees!

Now, Blockbuster is in the back bedroom!

We just have to be careful that the kids aren’t the ones browsing through his movies. They just ask Grandpa if he has a certain one.

If he doesn’t, he occasionally will bless the kids by picking it up. The Lego Movie was a recent example of this. Jayme asked him if he had it, and he said no. The next time he went shopping, he came home with a big grin as he handed it to her.

Food

Dad buys food that I don’t often have room in the budget for. He’ll pick up pizza for us all, buy the kids goodies, and pick up real beef jerky from the butcher for us to snack on.

Definitely not necessities, but niceties nonetheless!

Hugs

As I get older, and more sentimental, I recognize that I won’t always be able to hug on my parents. I’m trying to take advantage of their closeness to love on them more.

Enjoy your parents while you can–they won’t always be here!

These aren’t all the benefits of having Dad live here, but just the first that came to mind. If you’re in a multi-generational household, what can you add to my list?