Summary
Q. Should I stop my mom from giving my three preschool kids presents every time she visits? She is usually here once a month for about a week and every morning she gives a small gift to each of the kids. They love it (of course), but I am a little concerned that they will begin to think of her only in terms of the things she brings for them rather than the time she spends with them. I am also a little uncomfortable with the avalanche of trinkets and toys which are soon forgotten/broken or which we end up donating to a good cause. My husband and I have discussed it and are undecided as to whether we should try to intervene or just let it ride.
A. Let it ride. Your mother's largesse is causing no harm to anyone but her, and even that is questionable. While I agree that there is some possibility that the children will begin to think of her as a cornucopia of gifts, or a walking entitlement dispensary, I wouldn't be willing to go out on a limb and say that is going to happen for sure and forever. Besides, your mom is a big girl. She is capable of realizing that she's made a mistake and correcting it. Attempts on your part to micromanage her grandparenting are going to succeed about as well as would attempts on her part to micromanage your parenting. Let her have her fun, and keep those donations coming.See the full content of this document
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Parenting: ; Gramma's Largesse to Kids No Big Deal
Q. My 6-year-old son is still experiencing separation anxiety about going to school, over...
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