How important are grandparents? The role they play in your child’s life is up to you

[John Valadez]

I never had a well cultivated relationship with my grandparents. They either lived far way or were not with us. As I got older, other things took precedence in my life over developing a relationship with them. I was indifferent to the importance of a grandparent/grandchild relationship when I became a parent. It took me several years, and my oldest daughter, to show how significant that relationship can be in a child’s life. I recently relocated to the town of my youth. Although many events lead to this decision, a big one was my children’s need for a relationship with their grandparents.

Why grandparents are more than just a smiling face in a picture

A grandparent fits the mold of a mentor like no one else. The relationship is practically predetermined before birth with anticipation and readiness on the part of the grandparent. A grandchild is a gift. As an adult, with many life lessons, they have an opportunity to pass on their knowledge to an entirely new generation – it’s quite poetic really. My oldest daughter shares the month she was born with my mother and my youngest shares the same day and I do not see that as a coincidence. How can I not assist in cultivating their relationship?

My past mistake and what I learned

I made the mistake of letting others influence my children’s relationship with their grandparents. I thought that by agreeing with my ex-wife and “giving in” when she wanted my marriage would be more solid. I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “if mom is happy, then everyone is happy.” The problem was that my ex-wife was never happy. The part that she didn’t get along with her in-laws was inconsequential – she didn’t get along with anyone. It was a mistake I admit and I will never make again. I’ve come to realize that I had no right to jeopardize my children’s relationship with their grandparents. It just wasn’t my place. The bond they share is just too important.

How I avoid being the third wheel................... continue at http://singleparentplus2.com/