For grandparents, I am curious to know if you feel you spend enough or too much time with your son/daughter and their children.
On one hand, grandchildren and son/daughter in-laws are a welcome addition to the family and many grandparents enjoy spending time and building a great relationship with the extended members of the family.
On the other hand, I suppose grandparents have done their job already by raising their own children, so is it fair to ask granny or granddad to provide childcare? Perhaps retired grandparents want more time to go on cruises and coach trips and enjoy not being tied to work.
I also suppose there is a difference between minding a grandchild for an hour one day a week and your son/daughter expecting you to look after the children for multiple days and do laborious tasks such as laundry, ironing etc.
We are fortunate to have had an au pair and use nannies to ensure our children get the care they need when we can't be there. When our parents see the children, it's a joyful time. I've not leant on the grandparents much, although my mother in law did help with laundry after the birth of my first child. This was not an excessive amount and she, herself offered to do it, we'd never ask.
I'm going to create a poll, please select 1 or 2 for which best describes how you feel and also feel free to share your experiences.
Do you spend the right amount of time with offspring and grandchildren?
- No, I'd love to see them more.
- I love my family, but sometimes I need time alone and for myself and I'd appreciate some distance.
- I am happy with the amount of time I spend with my family.