A grandmother recently shared her struggle with her adult son and daughter-in-law, who repeatedly expected free childcare, even during her planned holiday with friends.
She emphasized the importance of setting boundaries: while she values time with her grandchildren, maintaining personal independence and respecting prior commitments is essential for healthy family relationships.
Experts note that grandparents providing childcare should have clear expectations, communicate availability, and establish limits to avoid resentment. Balancing support with personal life ensures long-term family harmony, especially as professional childcare becomes more costly and limited.
Clear boundaries and open communication help families navigate these challenges while respecting everyone’s needs.