Tips for Raising Kids in Multigenerational Households
The Indian community often emphasizes on loyalty and interdependence. While nuclear
families are on the rise, the majority of Indians still prefer to live in joint communities.
With urbanization, the younger generations find it challenging to accept the perception
of larger families. However, with the kind of structure Indian families maintain,
individuals find it easier to maintain economic stability along with an independent status.
Intergenerational living is subject to a long list of joys and struggles, but at the core of
this complex arrangement, the challenges are the same: human issues and
disagreements fired by generational differences. What people need to understand isculture and roots are important for the nourishment of our children. When they are in
touch with their roots, they find it easier to succeed in the real world because they carry
an identity and values of their own.
So, here are some tips that may help you raise kids in a multigenerational household
smoothly. And don’t hesitate to read if yours is a nuclear family, because in India, joint
families or not, the familial bonds are strong everywhere!
Recognise and honor parenting perspectives
Have conversations around child-rearing views. Try to think as grandparents and
as parents. Talk about the differences and meet midway at acceptable junctions.
Realise that parenting methods have evolved from then to now. Make reasonable
adjustments with your own family and systems. Reflect on your parenting
methods from time to time.
Release the stress of generational differences
There will be conflicts and arguments for sure. Avoid having those in front of
children. Deal with a united friend to avoid any confusions in children. Be willing
to say no but also keep an open mind to different systems.
Make boundaries
Boundaries are important in every aspect of life. There are things that one can
work with and other things that need not be worked with. Figure out the kind of
values you want your children to grow up with and work towards them. Empathy
and understanding are solutions to help you get along with your family.
Take care of the kids and elders together
One of the very important benefits of joint families is health-care. Most
grandparents need medical help and most kids fall sick at least once a year. With
a close-knit family, you can take care of both generations while saving on
aspects like rent, food expenditure, etc. Not only that, but this also teaches
empathy and responsibility to children. These qualities help children develop a
wholesome attitude towards life.
Spend quality time together as a family
This is one of the most important tips that people must follow as a family. It is
important for children to see affection in order to learn and show affection. At the
same time, the elders will also feel valued if you spend some time with them and
discuss some of your life events.
Little Genius takes pride in our cultural values regardless of family backgrounds and
living situations. We wish our kids a happy and healthy upbringing, one filled with lots of
love and lessons. This will enhance their mood and hence their learning capacities.
Most of our programs like the Reading Program for kids, English Enrichment Program,
and Leadership program for kids in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, etc. focus not just on syllabi
but also on the all-round development of our kids that help them sustain a happy and
delightful life.