Expert shares verdict on whether grandchildren should be spoiled

February 20, 2026 - 00:03

The age-old tradition of grandparents indulging their grandchildren is a cherished dynamic for many families. However, what one generation views as simple generosity can sometimes create tension with parents striving to enforce rules and moderation. This delicate balance between boundless affection and established household boundaries is a common source of family discussion.

Experts in family dynamics acknowledge that the desire to spoil grandchildren typically stems from a profound place of love and the joy of a less pressured relationship. Grandparents often relish the opportunity to create happy memories and offer treats without the day-to-day responsibilities of discipline. This special bond is invaluable for a child's sense of family history and emotional security.

Nevertheless, consistently undermining parental authority on issues like sweets, screen time, or bedtime routines can lead to familial friction. It can confuse children and make a parent's job more difficult. The key to harmony, advisors suggest, is open communication. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to discuss core rules and expectations respectfully. Finding compromises—perhaps designating specific "spoiling" privileges for grandma and grandpa—allows grandparents to express their love while supporting the parents' overarching framework. Ultimately, a united front, where the child feels loved within consistent boundaries, benefits everyone and strengthens the entire family unit.