I have always said that I never realised how much my parents loved me until I saw how much they love our kids.
Like, they are OBSESSED with them.
We moved closer to their home two years ago and it was the best move in terms of how much more quality time they all get to spend together.
Both of my parents work so we we never edge the 'free babysitters' angle (rage), but when they are around, they just love spending time with their grandkids.
My partner and I know just how lucky we are to have them nearby BUT! it doesn't come without it's challenges too.
Like, how do you have an argument with your dad about lodging a bar of chocolate into the tiny, grubby hand of a two year old right before bedtime, when you know he's doing it because he loves her?
(And a little bit because he's being a trouble-maker!)
Here are five reasons why my kids have an extra-special relationship with their grandparents:
1. The Undivided Attention
There is nothing a small child craves more than attention from those around them. Us parents are constantly asking them to 'give me a minute' or 'stop climbing all over me' while the grandparents show us up with a 'Tell me all about it' and woo their little attention-seeking hearts.
2. The Playground Trips
I must admit, I'm not crazy keen on taking the kids to the playground - you'd understand if you saw some of the playgrounds in our area. But my parents are only THRILLED to push them on swings and follow them all around climbing frames and slides. More power to them.
3. The Feeding
From the second they walk into their grandparents house, my kids are eating. Whether it's first thing in the morning or last thing in the evening, they have drinks, sandwiches, cheese and crackers, biscuits and sweets being flung at them from all directions. I can't even begin to tell you about the 7pm offers of a carton of orange juice. *face palm*
4. The Presents
"I haven't bought them anything in ages!" my mam will exclaim before flinging a bag of Smyths toys into the room. It's like Christmas every other week.
5. The Love Connection
There is a totally different connection between grandparents and grandkids than there is between parent and child. I used to want to live with my grannies all the time when they were alive. You can feel the warmth of their love every time you see them and that is completely priceless.
Do your kids have nicknames for their grandparents? Heard of
these?
Join the conversation on Twitter @HerFamilydotie
