Top tips for harmonious multigenerational living
It’s not uncommon nowadays to find a few generations sharing one home. While grandparents, parents and grandkids all living together under the same roof is not a new phenomenon, the trend is on the rise and will likely continue to grow. And while it’s often born out of negative circumstances, there are so many benefits of multigenerational living. But with any crowded living space, there are challenges so here are a few tips to keep the peace and make sure everyone gets along.
Give everyone privacy
Everyone should have a place in the house to call their home; it doesn’t necessarily have to be a room, but a space to call their own and where they know they won’t be disturbed. Children and adults alike feel more comfortable and secure when they have patches of their own space. And no matter how much you love spending time with family, it’s important everyone has downtime for themselves in the house.
Be realistic with expectations
It’s natural to want everything to work perfectly when generations meld together but everyone needs to be realistic with expectations. Not everyone’s stuff is going to fit in the house, grandkids aren’t going to want to spend all their time with grandparents, and grandparents aren’t going to be able to help with everything. A compromise from everybody is needed for harmonious living.
Let everyone live their own lives
Everyone needs a sense of independence whether young or old. For grandkids, they don’t want another set of parents in grandparents. Similarly, grandparents also don’t need or want to be parented by their children (or vice versa). Let family members have their lives outside of the family.
Reap the benefits and make memories
Often mutigenerational living situations come out of negative circumstances but they offer you positive opportunities you might not have. For grandkids, they have their grandparents on hand to share with them their family history and learn about the past. For grandparents, they have kids to make them feel young again and a reason to keep up-to-date with the happening of today’s youths.
Discuss house rules
Involve everyone in the decision-making process (not young children, but explain to them the reasons for decisions otherwise they might think it’s unfair they suddenly have to share a room). Mutually agree on house rules involving food, chores and curfews. Be specific and considerate – grandparents are often more than happy to babysit but just because they’re living at home doesn’t mean they want to be a full-time carers for grandkids. Stick to the rules and be consistent.
Related links:
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How grandchildren can protect your mental health
7 ways you can help your grandbabies grow and learn