OK, now that I am an official Grammy of three adorable little grandsons, I feel that I can be an expert on this subject. hahaha! (Is anyone ever worthy of the title "expert"?) This is our first holiday season where all the boys will be here and participating in the celebrations so I am VERY new at this role.
When you and your children go to visit grandparents or other relatives, who will make the rules and do the disciplining? Whose rules apply - yours or Grandma's?
Most of the time it makes sense for the house rules to apply - rules of the house you're visiting. You can decide with your children that some behavior may be all right at Grandma's but not all right when they get home again. For example, grandparents may permit children to stay up later than is allowed at home or maybe have two helpings of dessert.
This doesn't mean that grandparents should undercut parent's authority. Some behavior is not acceptable no matter where it takes place. For, example, running wild, jumping on furniture, destroying the house, is a no-no. Period.
As parents, you are the protectors of your children, even when it means your wishes go against grandparents' or other relatives' wishes. Sometimes you must insist on your own rules for your kids' sakes.
Talk to your parents, or other relatives before you arrive and let them know what your ground rules are and ask them to help you make the trip more pleasant by supporting your guidelines.
Fellow Grandparents, please follow the parents' lead.
It will be less confusing for your children and make the holidays more pleasant for all.
Have fun and make happy memories.
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