10. Speak specific words of encouragement and affirmation (to grands and their parents).
Slide 10 of 10
Every child needs unconditional love and support, and this is what grandparents do best. We cheer from the stands; whisper “You can do it,” before their piano recitals; and tell them how much we love and admire them. Although they know their grandparents are supposed to think they’re smart/funny/creative/talented, they still tend to believe us. The most powerful words we can speak – the ones they’re most likely to treasure – are specific, honest, and visionary.
I’m 54 years old, but I still remember what my grandmother said to me as a child. Granny was a Portuguese immigrant with a fourth-grade education. She admired my ability to read and write and often told me, “You’re very smart. I don’t know how to spell big words like you used in this paper. You’re going to write a book someday.” Decades later, the words and dreams she planted in my heart continue to impact my life.
Our grandchildren, however, aren’t the only ones who need to need to hear words of affirmation and approval. Their parents do, too. But like their children, they’re quick to spot empty praise. To be meaningful, our words should always be based on substantive truth. My mom wouldn’t say it often, but every now and then she’d say, “You’re doing a good job raising your family. I’m really proud of you.”
A weary, insecure parent desperately trying to do the right thing can exist for months on a compliment like that. Don’t be stingy with your praise.
Lori Hatcher is a blogger, inspirational speaker, and author of the Christian Small Publisher’s 2016 Book of the Year, Hungry for God … Starving for Time, Five-Minute Devotions for Busy Women. She’s also Gigi to three tiny humans. A Toastmasters International contest-winning speaker, Lori’s goal is to help busy women connect with God in the craziness of everyday life. She especially loves small children, soft animals, and chocolate. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog, Hungry for God. . . Starving for Time. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter(@lorihatcher2) or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
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