“Gran.” “Nana.” “Gigi.” “Mimi.” These are just a few of the affectionate titles for grandma. Whether you have a preference to avoid confusing your little ones who may have multiple grandmothers or simply feel that “grandma” sounds too traditional, they all boil down to one thing: you are not the parent.
And that’s a relief! Parenting is a demanding journey, a rigorous 18-year commitment where you mold a young person into a responsible, functioning member of society. Grandparenting, on the other hand, is a much more relaxed affair. We’re not tasked with shaping the next generation; we get to enjoy the fun parts. When little Tommy sets the neighbor’s fence on fire or Lucy shows up with a brand new tattoo, no one is asking about the grandparents.
Here are 14 delightful differences between the roles of parents and grandparents:
- Dining Etiquette
Parents: “Sit up straight and use your napkin.”
Grandparents: “Let’s throw a blanket on the floor and call it a picnic!” - Healthy Eating
Parents: “No dessert until you finish your broccoli.”
Grandparents: “Broccoli is yucky! Here, try this cookie instead.” - Dating Advice
Parents: “You need to know his family background.”
Grandparents: “Every girl should date a bad boy at least once. Ask your mom about her first boyfriend.” - Weekend Plans
Parents: “Clean your room, then help with yard work.”
Grandparents: “It’s Saturday! Let’s stay in our pajamas and binge-watch Frozen as many times as you want!” - Money Management
Parents: “If you want those $120 sneakers, save your allowance.”
Grandparents: “What size do you wear? Here you go!” - Truthfulness
Parents: “Always tell the truth, no exceptions.”
Grandparents: “I just backed into the mailbox—here’s $5. If anyone asks, this never happened, okay?” - Frugality
Parents: “You need a haircut? Grab the scissors.”
Grandparents: “You need a haircut? Let’s book you an appointment with my stylist. Then we can grab lunch!” - Fashion Choices
Parents: “That outfit is ridiculous; go change.”
Grandparents: “As long as I can’t see your underwear or belly button, you look great! And ask your mom about those short-alls she wore.” - Sportsmanship
Parents: “Life isn’t fair; it’s how you handle it that matters.”
Grandparents: “That’s unfair! Where’s the cheater? Grandma will go give him a piece of her mind!” - Commitment
Parents: “You can’t quit piano lessons; we paid for the year.”
Grandparents: “You tried it and didn’t like it? No big deal—let’s find something else!” - Chores
Parents: “Clean your room before you go out.”
Grandparents: “Just bring me any dishes from under your bed and keep your door closed. The cleaner comes on Tuesday.” - Studying
Parents: “You need to figure this out by yourself.”
Grandparents: “Just put a comma there and a period here. Now, who wants pizza?” - Halloween Costumes
Parents: “Let’s see what we can make for your fairy princess costume.”
Grandparents: “There’s a fabulous costume shop nearby! Let’s hurry before that other princess snatches the best outfits!” - Unconditional Love
Parents: “We’re disappointed in your behavior.”
Grandparents: “It doesn’t matter what you did; Grandma thinks you’re perfect!”
Ultimately, aging has its perks. We get to shower our grandchildren with love and fun without the constant anxiety that comes with parenting. We’ve learned to embrace the journey, knowing that, in the end, they will likely become wonderful adults, regardless of our occasional blunders.
I may not be a “Mimi” or a “Gigi,” but I will always just be “Grandma” to my little ones.
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