How to Get Grandparents to Follow Your Rules

Do you hate it when you constantly ask your mother not to give your kids to many sweets, money or to not stay up late on a school night and please make the kids clean up their own toys. Only for them to smile and say okay but have no intention of obeying your request.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   When you are confronting your parents about any situation with your child, try not to sound like you are telling them what to do. This is one reason why they ignore you. Rethink your words. Example: Instead of saying I want you to make sure Tony picks up all of his toys. Try saying guess what mom I notice Tony likes to pick up his toys after he plays, see if he does the same at your house.

2. 

   Instead of saying: Tony bedtime is at 8pm don't forget like last time. Try saying: mom if Tony doesn't get enough sleep he will be cranky and hard to deal with in the morning. Act more concern as if you were just updating her on how much her grandchild is growing up and becoming more independent.

3. 

   This way you are not sounding bossy. She doesn't feel like you are throwing a list of rules at her. This will help your parents follow some of your rules without realizing they are doing so.

Tips & Warnings

• Relax, most grandparents are happy to spend time with their grand kids they love to spoil them. Don't mess that up with a list of demands that might push them away. Always remember everyone is different so they might or might not agree with your list of expectations. Just be happy your parents are alive so that your kids can have memories of the times spent with them so what if they give them money or let them wear eyeshadow to school.

[Desula]

on 9/12/2008 Great ideas on dealing with grandparents who tend to spoil their grandchildren. They are probably paying their children back. : )