How to Behave With Grandparents

Babysitting grandchildren can be a grandparent's greatest joy until the child needs to be disciplined. For grandparents who raise grandchildren while parents work or those who just babysit occasionally, an agreement between parent and grandparent on effective child discipline will reduce conflict and give the child the boundaries they need to learn how to behave.

Instructions

1. Discuss parenting and discipline styles with parents before babysitting grandchildren. Grandparents should follow the parent's style or discuss alternatives if uncomfortable with the method of child discipline.

2. Make clear, simple rules and determine the consequences for breaking each rule. Children need to understand what is expected of them to learn to behave appropriately. Simple rules like picking up toys or never leaving the house without asking permission are easy for children to learn and can make babysitting grandchildren a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

3. Teach grandchildren that the consequences of bad behavior will be the same whether delivered by the grandparent or the parent. Consistency is key for children to learn good behavior.

4. Model respectful behavior for children. Grandchildren learn how to treat grandparents by watching how their parents treat the grandparents. A grandparent who is treated with love and respect by the parent will receive love and respect from the grandchild. Modeling good behavior is a highly effective child discipline plan.

5. Discuss with parents whether you need or want to be paid for babysitting your grandchildren before the grandchildren arrive at your home.

Tips & Warnings

• Parents have the final say in how their children are raised so grandparents must be flexible when discussing rules and consequences.