As someone who has been a social worker, mother, wife and divorcee I have been around the block a few times. I’m humbled to answer your questions and feel that if a problem can be shared it can be halved – at the very least.
The festive season is such a special time, and memories are built on traditions
Just as you were gearing up and getting excited for your grandchildren coming to stay for half term, your husband decided to pour cold water on one of your plans.
It is so important to encourage young people to engage with you as they grow up and build memories, but this often involves a great deal of planning in order to make things happen.
It is wonderful to welcome your grandchildren to spend their free time with you. However, for your own peace of mind, it helps to plan ahead and have some boundaries, otherwise, your own routine may well be hijacked.
The perks of being a doting grandparent (someone who is there to help and also there to hand the children back!) may well be compromised.
The festive season is such a special time, and memories are built on traditions, old or new. It is wonderful that you are present in your grandchildren’s lives and willing to conjure activities that will heighten their pleasure. This can be so exciting, even more so when you are young.
Is your husband worrying that your grandchildren are going to be spoiled if you get carried away with treating them?
Your grandchildren are lucky enough to have a big tree. I’m sure they already have some special heirloom decorations. Perhaps they have inherited some of your decorations that your own children may have made when they were small? Maybe they even make their own decorations at school or home?
Such things can really bring back memories, and big trees do need a lot of decorations, so your idea of them choosing a special new decoration is a great one. This will
