Going the Extra Mile

Becoming a grandparent is a joy like no other, but watching your adult children grow into their roles as parents adds an entirely new layer of pride and responsibility.

As they navigate the beautiful and sometimes overwhelming journey of parenthood, we have a unique opportunity to support them—not just as their parents but as allies in raising the next generation. Going the extra mile for your adult kids can make all the difference in helping them be the best parents they can be.

Here’s how you can show up for your adult kids, offer meaningful support, and create an environment where everyone thrives.

Be a Safe Place, Not a Critical Voice

Parenting comes with enough pressures, and what your adult kids need more than anything is a safe, supportive voice.

Instead of offering unsolicited advice or critiques, let them know that you trust their parenting instincts and are proud of the job they’re doing. If they ask for advice, provide it with love and encouragement, knowing that they are ultimately the ones making decisions for their children.

It’s important to create a space where they feel comfortable venting or sharing their struggles without fear of judgment. Whether they’re dealing with sleepless nights, temper tantrums, or navigating school choices, be a listening ear first. Sometimes, just being able to talk things through is all they need to feel empowered to handle the challenges ahead.

By being a safe, judgment-free zone, you strengthen your relationship with your adult kids and help them feel confident in their parenting abilities.

Offer Practical Help Without Overstepping

One of the best ways to support your adult kids is by offering practical, hands-on help when they need it most. From babysitting for date nights to helping out with housework or running errands, your extra set of hands can be a lifeline for overwhelmed parents. However, it’s important to be sensitive and not overstep their boundaries. Make sure to ask how you can help rather than assuming you know what they need.

You can also step in during big life transitions, like the birth of a new baby or when one of the kids is sick. Offering to bring over meals, help with laundry, or take the other kids out for a fun day can ease the burden. When you pitch in with practical support, you free them up to focus on their most important job—parenting your grandkids.

Showing up in ways that are genuinely helpful without imposing your own methods or expectations builds trust and shows your adult kids that you’re there to support, not take over.

Encourage Them and Speak Life into Their Parenting

Parenthood can often feel like an endless cycle of second-guessing, especially for young parents who are learning as they go. That’s where your encouragement becomes invaluable. Regularly tell your adult kids what they’re doing well. Acknowledge their strengths as parents, whether it’s their patience, creativity, or the way they nurture their children’s individuality.

Make a habit of celebrating their wins—big or small. Did they finally get the baby to sleep through the night? Did they handle a difficult school meeting with grace? Celebrate it! Remind them that the hard work they’re putting in day after day is making a difference in their children’s lives. Sometimes, the extra mile is simply offering words of life and affirmation when they need them most.

By encouraging them, you give them the confidence to keep going on the tough days and remind them that they’re doing an amazing job as parents.

Support Your Adult Kids by Walking Alongside Them

Being a grandparent is not just about spoiling the grandkids (though that’s certainly fun!); it’s also about supporting your adult children as they figure out how to be the best parents they can be. By being a safe place, offering practical help, and consistently encouraging their efforts, you build a relationship based on trust, love, and respect.

Going the extra mile as a parent to your adult kids not only strengthens your bond with them but also creates a positive environment where your grandkids can thrive. Your role is not to take over but to walk alongside them, providing the support and encouragement they need to flourish as a family.

The extra effort you put into supporting your adult children now will ripple through generations to come.