The role of a grandparent is an important one. A grandparent is someone who can spoil your child and make them feel special, in a way completely different than a parent can do. Spending time with a grandparent is important to the well-being and development of a child, but many parents worry if grandparents can affect the early childhood development of a young person.

1. How do Grandparents Affect Early Childhood?
The role of a grandparent is an important one. A grandparent is someone who can spoil
your child and make them feel special, in a way completely different than a parent can
do. Spending time with a grandparent is important to the well-being and development of
a child, but many parents worry if grandparents can affect the early childhood
development of a young person. Many times, a grandparent has different ideas of
discipline and structure that the parent may not approve of. There also may be a
different method of learning and education that the parent does not agree with. It is
important to understand how a grandparent can affect a child in the early stages of
development so your child
can begin to grow in a
positive learning
environment.
Discipline
Many grandparents may be
slacking when it comes to
discipline, more out of love
and affection than anything
else. Discipline is very important in the development of respect in a child. When a
grandparent does not discipline a child when they do something wrong this can differ
from your method of discipline as well as cause disruption in the learning patterns of the
child. It is important to speak with the grandparent and make sure they understand your
method of discipline and make sure they enforce this method. If not, you may have to
take measures to get the grandparent to understand the importance of structure and
continuity.
Spoiling
We all know that grandparents are perfect at spoiling the grandchildren. This can be a
blessing and a curse. No parent wants to have their child return home only to be

2. hopped up on sugar with a brand new set of toys. Be sure to speak with your parents or
your spouse’s parents to ensure they understand that a little spoiling is okay but being
bratty and expecting gifts and sweets is not acceptable.
Independence
One of the most important skills to learn in the younger years is to be independent. By
teaching your toddler to be independent they can gain a solid sense of self-esteem and
self-worth. This can be done by allowing the child to dress himself or prepare small
meals or snacks. Many times, grandparents want to do the work for the child. This can
be okay in limited quantities but grandparents who are consistently around a child and
do not let the child do anything for themselves can be harmful. Take the time to stress
independent learning and thinking for your child.
Bad Influence?
Some people hope to never be like their parents. This could be due to a negative
childhood or because of the unwelcome behavior of a parent. As a parent yourself, you
want only good influences around your child. Grandparents who you feel will be a bad
influence can make for difficult situations.
If the grandparent practices incorrect behavior around your child, this can have a
negative influence on your son or daughter.
Your parent may not understand why you do not want your child alone with them or
around them for extended periods of time. But stick to your guns and even talk to your
parent that their behavior may affect your child and what type of behavior you expect
from your parent around your child.
Your Child Comes First
Overall it is important to consider your child first. As a new parent, you must protect your
child and allow them to grow and develop in a positive manner. If grandparents begin to
interfere, it is your duty to take certain measures to protect your child. By having a solid
plan with your spouse as to how you would like your child to learn and grow, you can

3. share this plan with relatives to ensure that your child has only positive influences
around them at all times.
Remember grandparents are also important to a child’s development. Grandparents are
historians, and mentors, as well as role models and a playmate.
Allow your child to develop a relationship with your parent under your guidance so they
can enjoy the bond that is unlike any other.
About Naudain Academy.
Naudain offers a unique and diverse Montessori preschool program for children 18
months – 6 years of age. Our dedicated staff strives to help each child attain their full
potential by introducing them to activities and experiences that help to lay the
foundations for academic success. We have been taking care for children for over 36
years now.
Click here to get more details about some of the staff members at Naudain Academy.