How to Be a Good Aunt or Uncle

If you have nieces or nephews, you have probably thought about your relationship with them and your role as an aunt or uncle. Here are some ways to be closer to your nieces and nephews, and have a good relationship.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Nieces and/or Nephews
• Time and Effort
• Love
• Patience

1. Listen: The most important part of being a good role model and having a good relationship with children is to listen to them. That means paying attention to what they are saying. Give them your undivided attention, and talk to them about what is important to them. Actively listen, and respond to them truthfully.

2. Never Undermine Parental Authority: Yes you love them and you want them to be happy. No you are not their parent. Dangerous activity needs to be reported to their parents. Decision making should always be up to the parent. Respecting their parents' decisions will reinforce family solidarity. Defer to the decisions of the parents, and never complain or challenge those choices in front of the children.

3. Spend Time Together: Money is a poor substitute for time. Gifts are nice but they cannot replace time spent together. Instead of buying a gift, take them to lunch, to the park, or to a movie. Join them in activities that they enjoy such as a game or listening to music.

4. Be Supportive: Support them in their pursuits and activities as much as you can. If your niece sings in a choir, be there in the audience to cheer her on. If your nephew plays sports, go to some of his games. Celebrate with them and tell them how proud you are of them.

5. Share your Expertise: Teach them something you do well. Cook together, do a craft, make a paper airplane, sing or dance, paint a picture or work on a model. Do something together that you both enjoy.

6. Be Fair and Equal: Do not play favorites. Treat your nieces and nephews equally. Share time with them equally.

7. Make sure they know how you feel about them: Tell them that you love them, care about them, are proud of them, like them, enjoy their company. Tell the truth and tell it often.

8. Be Dependable: Be where you say you will be when you say you will be there. Don't cancel plans unless you absolutely have to. Prove to them that they can count on you.

Tips & Warnings

• These tips work for any family member!

[painthorse42]

on 1/10/2009 Such true advice - Thanks! 5*

[ShannaFuentes]

on 1/8/2009 Great tips! Thanks for the article!

[brandy1123]

on 1/5/2009 very good advise

[BCPASSIONS]

on 12/19/2008 So true, great article!!!