What Type of Grandma Are You?: The Ultimate Grandma Guide
We often forget when we discuss different parenting styles such as lawnmower parenting, tiger parenting or free-range, that the same labels can be applied to grandmothers. Grandmas are a vital part of their grandchildren’s life, providing love, wisdom and even a bit of chaos. Each grandmother uniquely interacts with her family, and most fall into one of several personality types. Others blend traits to create their unique style. Some grandmothers fit into one type while others mix different types.
Which type of grandmother are you? If you’re a mother, what type of grandmother is your mother-in-law? Explore the different grandmothering types and find out where you or a loved one may fit.
1. The “I’ll Never Give Them back” Grandma
This kind of grandmother loves her grandchildren so much, that it is difficult to let go. She can be a great help to parents who are working or require regular childcare. Her home is filled with warmth, hugs and snacks.
She loves spending time with her grandchildren, whether they are reading stories, making cookies or cuddling. Saying goodbye is never easy. She will linger at the door to give extra hugs and kisses. She may even offer “just one more cookie” or a story. Consider yourself lucky if you have a grandma like this in your family. Your kids will be loved.
2. The “I’m living my own life” Grandma
This grandmother feels that after raising her children it is finally time for her to enjoy her life. She loves her grandchildren but does not want to be their primary babysitter. She loves to spend time with her grandchildren, but she also wants to maintain her independence.
She is active in her social circle, travels and has hobbies. She makes the time she spends with her grandchildren special by taking them to places and doing activities she loves. She is spontaneous, fun and has exciting adventures planned on her terms.
3. The Old-Fashioned Grandma
The traditional grandmother is a woman with gray hair, a cozy sweater, and a warm, friendly smile. She doesn’t always agree with the modern parenting style, but she tends to keep her opinions to herself. She may raise an eyebrow about screen time or modern discipline methods but she still loves her family.
Old-fashioned grandmothers are often vocal in their dislike of modern trends but, at heart, they want to do the best for their grandkids.
4. The Glam Gran
This grandmother looks like she just walked out of a magazine. She redefines the meaning of being a grandmother with designer clothes, stylish jewelry, and perfectly manicured hands.
She doesn’t change diapers nor wipe noses but she does shower her grandchildren with gifts. From designer baby blankets and trendy outfits. She introduces her children to luxury as they grow older by taking them shopping and on spa days.
She may not be a hands-on grandma but she compensates by creating unforgettable memories and adding a little glamour to their lives.
5. The hands-on grandmother
This grandmother is the ultimate caregiver. She knows instinctively how to calm a baby crying, mend a grazed knee and keep children entertained for hours. She has a house full of homemade treats, knitted sweaters and tissues to wipe dribbles or runny eyes.
She is always willing to offer advice, whether she’s babysitting on short notice or giving valuable parenting tips. She’s not glamorous, but she is always there to help when needed.
6. The Wise Women of the Tribe
She is the keeper and defender of family traditions, history, and wisdom. She shares stories of ancestors and old customs. She shares old rhymes and remedies with her grandchildren.
She can recognize every face in an old black-and white photograph. She gives her grandchildren a sense that they are part of a family and a heritage.
7. The Sporty Granny
She wears her workout clothes to family events, just after she has finished her yoga class or tennis game. She encourages her granddaughter to be active, and she is a fitness enthusiast.
She makes fitness fun, whether it is hiking, cycling or swimming. She is full of energy and encourages her grandchildren to develop healthy habits.
8. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Granny
This grandmother refuses to allow age to define her. She embraces loud music and a rebellious streak. She might have tattoos, still ride a motorbike, or go to concerts. She is not your typical grandmother.
She is spontaneous, fun and a bit mischievous. Her grandchildren love her because she is a life-saver, encouraging them to be adventurous and to think outside of the box.
9. The Granny From Hell
This grandma, though rare, is the worst kind of matriarch. She is overly critical and meddles with family matters. She always has an unwelcome opinion. She may openly criticize modern parenting styles, meal choices, and create unnecessary drama.
It can be difficult to deal with this type of grandmother, but underneath the tough exterior is a heart which doesn’t understand how to show love.
10. The Mad Granny
This grandmother embraces her eccentricity. She is a grandma who loves to be eccentric. She is a favorite storyteller for her grandchildren.
She may be a woman with a strange collection, have unconventional hobbies or say things that are out of character, but she is loved for the uniqueness she brings and the joy it brings.
11. The Supergran
Many grandmothers strive to be Supergrans — always available, supportive and full of boundless energy. She is able to balance fun with responsibility. She never goes overboard, but she’s always there when needed.
She is patient, attentive, and gives guidance to her grandchildren when they ask. She is respectful of the parents while maintaining a special relationship with her grandchildren. She is the perfect combination of warmth, wisdom, and reliability.
Finding Your Grandma Style
The majority of grandmothers are a mixture. Most important is their love and connection with their grandchildren. Whether you’re a fun-loving Rock ‘n’ Roll Gran or a glamorous Glam Gran who loves to get their hands dirty, your presence will be a blessing.
Grandmothers are crucial in shaping the lives and futures of their grandchildren. The best grandma doesn’t have a label, but is defined by her love, warmth and support. Which type of grandmother are you? Which type of grandma do you have?
