I have a grandson who is now 3 years old. His parents (my son and his wife) say he is an angel until I arrive to visit and then he turns into a monster! My son said that I am not in "parenting mode" as they are. Should I disipline him even if his parents are in the room? I feel I do correct him if I feel he is acting inappropriately but maybe not harshly enough? His parents say he acts badly when I am there and I'm sure they will begin to dread my visits as a result. Any insights would be helpful. Thanks!
Just ask them how you should proceed. your grandson is also just showing off. If you can take him off their hand for any amount of time, then I doubt they will not want you there. My nephews always act when I am visiting. It is for attention. Also, I am not as good at being strict with them when the parents are around, but when I am babysitting, I don't put up with any nonscence. Just ask your son what you should do.
I can relate to your son and wife. My oldest is the same way with my parents as soon they come over for a visit or I go there he turns into a monster and its really bad when he goes for an overnight visit and comes home thinking he can do whatever he wants and I do dread going to their house or them coming here and you don't want that to happen so whatever it is you are doing you might want to change it. Maybe if you are more firm not harsh with your grandson he will listen more. He's probably not acting out for his parents but more or less showing off because grandma is over so if you make it known to him that you really disaprove of his behavior he will turn it down a notch.
Its up to the parents to discipline him, when you have him ALONE then its up to you. He is just showing off as others have said. Tell your son and his wife to get in parenting mode when they are in the same room as their son. Snapping at children never works, and I doubt he is the perfect little angel when you are not there. I bet he is a normal 3 year old that is testing them at every turn. Hold your ground as the loving Grandmother and let them parent. Maybe you can take him on your own to do something special so you may bond. Good luck!
I agree with Liz that he is probably just showing off. If my child were acting up around grandparents I would consider it my job to discipline him, not the grandparent's! It probably is best to talk to the parents about what they want you to do, good luck!
