© Shutterstock

Be supportive - Grandparents are very important in a child’s life. Be sure to offer help, but without being overbearing. At the end of the day, ensure you are respecting the parents' decisions and their particular parenting style.

© Shutterstock

Establish boundaries - Open communication can go a long way in understanding and respecting the boundaries set by the parents to help avoid conflicts. While it can be tempting to do things ‘your way,’ it is their child, so respecting that will help.

© Shutterstock

Learn modern parenting practices -

Using the internet or parenting magazines, try to stay updated on current parenting techniques, as they may differ from when you raised your children. Keep an open mind to how things have shifted.

© Shutterstock

Be patient - The child’s parents are going through a life-changing experience, so give them time to adjust to their new roles without pressure or unsolicited advice. They need just as much patience from you as the child needs from them.

© Shutterstock

Celebrate milestones - From birthdays to other milestone events, be as present as possible and help celebrate your grandchild and their big day.

© Shutterstock

Offer practical help -

Offer and provide practical support for the child’s parents, such as cooking meals, babysitting, or running errands. Your time and effort will mean a lot to the family and can help tremendously.

© Shutterstock

Be a good listener -

New parents and seasoned parents alike will often need to talk about their lives as a parent. Listen to their concerns and needs without judgment or unsolicited advice.

© Shutterstock

Create a safe space -

Buy and install needed items to ensure your home is baby-proofed and safe for your grandchild. Whether it’s plastic plugs that keep their little fingers out of electrical sockets or bubble wrapping the corners of tables, do your part in creating a safe place for the child to be in.

© Shutterstock

Respect parenting choices - This may be a tough one for some, but, even if you disagree, respect the parents' choices regarding their child's upbringing. While you’re free to voice ideas and even concerns, it’s important to ultimately trust their ideals.

© Shutterstock

Stay flexible - Parents' plans can change in an instant, so the more willing and able you are to adapt to the parents' schedule and needs, the better. Of course, you don’t have to always drop your entire day to help, but if small changes can be made, they often mean a lot.

© Shutterstock

Build a strong bond -

Spending quality time with your grandchild will help to build a strong, loving relationship. There are countless activities you can do with your grandchildren, and you’ll find through trial and error what resonates best with them.

© Shutterstock

Be tech-savvy - If you live far away from a grandchild, this is especially important. Using technology like video calling apps to stay connected or being able to send a quick check-in text to the parents are quick, meaningful ways to stay in touch and be present even when living far away.

© Shutterstock

Share your experiences (when asked) - You have been a parent before and have plenty of sage advice. It’s great to share, but usually only when asked. Parents feel a lot of stress and pressure as it is. While they love and respect you and value your wisdom, asking before sharing is often well received.

© Shutterstock

Avoid comparisons - If you have more than one grandchild, be sure you don’t ever compare them to one another. Every human, and every grandchild, is important and unique in their own way, and that should be celebrated.

© Shutterstock

Be positive -

Parents have a lot on their shoulders with a child, or children, including the unregulated emotions of the child. You can help by maintaining a positive attitude and providing encouragement to the parents.

© Shutterstock

Respect privacy - Every family deserves privacy and space, even if you are the grandparent. Give the parents the space they might need so they don’t feel obligated to entertain visitors. They love you, but might need some ‘alone’ time with their child.

© Shutterstock

Provide emotional support - Offer emotional support to the parents as they navigate the challenges of parenthood. Be there to hear their concerns, wishes, and struggles without fear of judgment.

© Shutterstock

Keep traditions alive - Traditions can be a great way to teach kids history and culture. With the parents’ permission, share family traditions and create new ones with your grandchild.

© Shutterstock

Be financially wise - It can be tempting to shower a grandchild with gifts. Try your best, though, to avoid financial overcommitment when buying gifts or offering support. Memories and activities can be just as impactful as gifts.

© Shutterstock

Attend grandparenting classes - There are always new and better ways to be a grandparent. Research and studies are constantly being conducted and more is being learned about the development of children. You might consider attending classes or workshops on being a grandparent.

© Shutterstock

Understand development stages - Learn about the different stages of child development to better support your grandchild. From toddler to teen and all the stages in between, each comes with its own set of demands and challenges that you might assist with.

© Shutterstock

Be involved in activities -

As your grandchild ages, they will show preferences for certain activities. Try to participate in these various activities in hopes of fostering a closer bond with your grandchild.

© Shutterstock

Promote reading - Reading and learning can be one of the most life-changing experiences in a child’s life. Help be part of that growth by encouraging a love of reading by sharing books and stories with your grandchild.

© Shutterstock

Foster independence - Teach, encourage, and help foster your grandchild’s independence and confidence. Teach them that being alone doesn’t necessarily mean being lonely—it can actually be empowering.

© Shutterstock

Be a role model - Your grandchild will note your behaviors, attitudes, and more, so make sure you exhibit those that you’d want your grandchild to emulate.

© Shutterstock

Stay healthy - Healthy habits in your life help you to not only keep up with an active grandchild, but to live longer to be in their lives. From diet to working out and everything in between, health and wellness are essential.

© Shutterstock

Get silly - Remember to have fun with your grandchildren! If you can, get down on their level and play games, tickle them, or simply aim to make them smile. Kids grow up so fast, so enjoy the time with them while you have it.

© Shutterstock

Beware of grandparent rivalry -

It can be easy to get into arguments with your grandchild’s other grandparents, but do your absolute best to avoid this. Strive to come together and help the child’s parents and your mutual grandkid.

Sources: (BabyCenter) (HelpGuide.org) (Verywell Family)

See also: Questions all grandchildren should ask their grandparents

© Shutterstock