Child Development
Grandparents find it easy and fun to mark the happy milestones in a grandchild's life. A baby's first words are big news in any family. A child's first step is a great reason for a party! But how do grandparents greet the other, not-so-happy, milestones?
How will you react, for example, when your loveable toddler suddenly greets you with frightened tears instead of a warm hug? You probably won't jump for joy! You won't want to throw a party to celebrate your granddaughter's first temper tantrum. You may want to lose your own temper when your preteen granddaughter spends an entire visit attached to her headphones.
Don't let these behaviors worry you or make you feel bad about yourself. All of them-the tears, the tantrums, and the headphones-are normal for grandchildren at certain ages. It's called "growing up," and it's not always pretty. Knowing what to expect will make it easier for you to accompany grandchildren on their journey through life, while keeping your self-esteem intact.
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