Expectations

Grandparents play an important role in the family. At Tresillian we advocate the role of the extended family in raising a child, but to be successful, all family members need to be open and honest with each other from the start.

Have a chat with your adult children about the expectations they have of you as a grandparent:

• How often will you visit them, i.e. can you pop-in unannounced?
• How often can you ring?
• Can you help with babysitting? (Remember that what you do for the first grandchild may be expected for the others) Be prepared to say if it is too much for you or you need time to yourself.
• Listen carefully to your adult children’s views on bringing up your grandchild. If you think differently, raise your concerns with them but don’t expect them to change their ideas.

Perhaps the best thing you can do is to support new parents with practical help. Make a meal for them, do a basket of ironing and if the new Mum needs a rest, offer to look after baby while she sleeps.

Health Insite

http://www.healthinsite.gov.au/topics/Child_Safety
This Commonwealth Government site provides links to reliable websites that provide information about child safety