Disciplining Your Grandchildren Ages 5 to 9

Grandmothers, do you wonder how you should be disciplining your grand-kids ages 5 to 9? Of course, situations are different for each family, so I will throw some suggestions out there that will probably suit just about any situation.

Children at this age are growing, and learning like crazy. They are probably in school or being home schooled. If they attend public school, they are probably picking up sayings and phrases we may not approve of at home. They are also probably picking up attitudes that we may not necessarily appreciate either. Some in the upper range of this age group may be entering puberty at an early age, and may be experiencing some hormonal changes that affect their behavior as well.

So, how can we as grandmothers discipline our grand-kids when they do something we don’t approve of? One of my favorite techniques to use is revoking a privilege! There is always fun, interesting and different things to do at Nana’s house than there is at home, so if one of my grand-kids acts up, I will take one of their privileges away for a period of time or the rest of the visit. They hate this and usually the inappropriate behavior changes instantly.

For the younger kids in this age range, I would use time out as a disciplinary action. They are still young enough that time out is a good consequence for them. Remember to use 1 minute for every year of their age. So if they are 5 years old they get 5 minutes of time out. Of course, only you can determine what works best for your grand-kids.

Always talk about what disciplinary actions you are going to use over with your children first. Use the techniques they use at home. If you disagree, figure out a way to meet in the middle. Remember, you want what’s best for the kids. And remember, we use discipline because we love our grand-kids and want to help them be successful and citizens of good character.

But, what if there is no discipline at home?! You can still use the techniques above in your home. Your children and grandchildren should respect your decisions in your home. Sometimes that can cause some issues, and you may have to show some tough love by not allowing them to come over until they learn to respect you and your decisions. This is hard, I know, but usually they will get it and come around. Then they will respect you now and as they grow up. 

What techniques have you used that work? Have you ever had to tell them not to come over until they can respect your and your home? If so, how long did it take for them to come around? I’m sure there are other grandmas out there that have been in this situation and would like to hear your story. So feel free to leave a comment with your story or situation! 

Photo of boy and woman courtesty of anissat on stock.xchng

Related posts:

1. Grandmotherly Advice On Disciplining Younger Children
2. Don’t give children a choice when disciplining
3. Discipline and Your Grandchildren
4. Snacks for Visiting Grandchildren
5. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren