Try These 7 Effective Tips to Calm a Wild Grandchild

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Kids are different: some are calm and good at following directions, while others are a bit wild and don’t follow rules as well. But even though wild kids can be a handful sometimes, they’re also really sweet, creative, funny, and super smart. These qualities make the tough times worth it.

I have a grandkid who is one of the wild ones, and I love them so much! I’ve learned some great ways to help calm them down when things get rough. Here are some tips I’ve picked up from being both a parent and a grandparent:

Turn off the screens

When I was a kid, we didn’t have to worry about screens. But now, they’re everywhere! Studies show that screens can cause problems for kids, like making it hard to behave. What’s the fix? Just turn them off!

Instead of watching TV or using tablets, let’s do fun things that don’t need a screen. We could draw, play outside in the backyard (I’ll watch while you run!), or bake something yummy together. Sounds fun, right?

Stick to a routine

Kids do well with routines, so when they visit, it’s good to have one ready. They should know what to expect—there will be time to play, eat lunch, and have quiet time or a nap. Don’t worry; we’ll keep it fun, because I’m the fun grandma! But it helps if they know the plan for the day.

Follow through

If someone is not following the rules or is breaking things, don’t just warn them without doing anything.

The first time they don’t listen, you need to have a consequence ready. This could be taking something away, having them sit on the stairs, or going to their room for a few minutes. Make sure you do what you say you will. This shows you mean what you say and can help stop bad behavior early.

Spend time outdoors

If you have a grandchild who is very active or likes to run around a lot, parks and play areas are great places to go. They can run and play and use up some of their energy. This gives you a chance to catch your breath too!

Teach them empathy

Kids learn so much every day, and as their grandma, you’re one of their first teachers. Take the chance to teach them about empathy. You don’t need to give a big lecture. Just tell them how you feel when they don’t listen or disobey.

Then, ask them how they would feel if someone didn’t listen to them. Talking about this once or twice might really help them understand and improve their behavior.

Teach them easy ways to calm down

Kids can get overwhelmed just like adults, and it helps if they know how to calm down. Here are some simple things they can try:

• Take deep breaths.
• Try some simple yoga poses.
• Draw or color a picture.
• Drink some water or milk.
• Blow on a pinwheel.
• Count backward from 100.
• Blow bubbles.
• Give a big hug.
• Go for a walk or run.
• Jump rope or just jump up and down.
• Crinkle tissue paper.
• Roll a ball under your feet.
• Play music.
• Dance.

You might need to try a few to see which ones work best.

Start a fun, calm hobby

There are lots of quiet hobbies you can start with your grandkids, like scrapbooking, collecting coins or stamps, painting, or writing. You can do these activities together, but remember, they need to be calm while doing them. If it gets too loud or wild, you’ll have to stop for the day.

Spending time with your grandkids is the best, and I hope these tips help you as much as they’ve helped me. Until next time!

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