How to Enjoy Being a First Time Grandmother

Anticipating your first grandchild can open up a whole new world of parenting for you, this time as a ̶0;second string player.̶1; With the child̵7;s birth, your new status of grandmother will present opportunities for learning the ropes. With a focus on the joys of grandparenthood, you can cherish your new grandchild and relish your unfamiliar role.

  1. Anticipation of Grandparenthood

    • From the time the expectant couple announces the impending arrival of your first grandchild, the anticipation begins. The expectant mother will undergo many physical and emotional changes throughout the pregnancy. If you̵7;re emotionally close with your daughter or daughter-in-law, participate in her pregnancy by sharing and offering support as she experiences morning sickness, first kicks, maternity clothes, gender reveal, nursery and layette planning, and labor preparation. Purchase items for the new baby to help the parents prepare for the arrival and to share in the expectation. Pass down to your new grand baby special toys or outfits that were your child's. Plan a shower for the mother-to-be to celebrate the arrival of your grandchild.

    Meeting Your Grandchild

    • Your geographic proximity to your new grandchild will determine how and when you first meet him. Perhaps the parents will invite you to be present at labor and delivery or maybe you will meet the new bundle after he arrives. Prepare yourself for an overwhelming feeling of love when you first see the new baby and hold him. With parenthood, new parents typically bond with the new baby while experiencing feelings of fatigue and anxiety. With grandparenthood, you likely won̵7;t have the negative feelings, which frees you to love your new grandchild with fierce abandon. Watch your initial approach with the parents and the new baby to ensure that your presence isn̵7;t overpowering to the new family.

    Supporting and Respecting the Parents

    • The new parents will need to adjust to their important roles of caretakers of this precious, new life and you will need to adjust to a supportive role of grandparent. While they find their way through this maze, remain available to assist and support them without threatening their position. Ask questions, offer help and just make yourself available to spend time with the new baby. When you are with the baby, focus on the new little person and enjoy every minute you have with her. Kiss her head, smell her neck, stroke her soft skin and listen to her precious baby noises. If the mother or father has questions about newborns or baby care, offer advice and information. Do not offer unsolicited advice, however, because you could ruffle the new parents̵7; feathers.

    The Joy of Connection

    • Whether your new grandchild lives next door, across town or across the country, make time to connect regularly with the child. Ask the parents if you can visit regularly in person with the little one, if possible. If your geographic location makes frequent visits impossible, connect frequently via the Internet using a video chat service. You might read to the child over the video chat connection; the more the child sees you and hears your voice, the stronger your connection. It̵7;s possible to create a lifelong connection with your grandchild, even living far apart. By prioritizing your new grandchild and making time to spend with her, you will become an important part of her life.

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