How to survive becoming a grandparent

Becoming a grandparent is life-changing and exciting.

The chances are you’ll be one of the first to know about the new baby, giving you around six or seven months to get used to the idea and plan what sort of role you’ll play in his or her life.

To help smooth the way, here are 5 things to consider that can help pave the way to a happy relationship with your daughter or son and your new grandchild:

1.    Celebrate! Your daughter or son will be going through a range of emotions and will look to you for positive support. Forget the fact your new grandparent status probably makes you feel suddenly much older!

2.    Discuss the future. Ask your daughter or son what qualities make an ideal grandparent in their eyes. Respecting how they want you to be involved with their child will help you avoid issues that might lead to tensions in your relationship.

3.    Consider setting up a savings plan – like a pension or ISA - for your grandchild. Saving even a relatively modest amount for 18+ years has the potential to grow into a tidy sum.

4.    Be clear about childcare. Your daughter or son may automatically assume you will provide unlimited free babysitting services, or even full-time child-minding when they go back to work. Having an open discussion early on about what you would like to do and where the boundaries lie will help them and you to develop a realistic plan that works for everyone.

5.    Think about your Will, even though that will probably make you feel even older! You may want to make special provision for your grandchild in it.