When its time to leave your baby, who better to trust with your precious little one than your own parents? Grandparents love your children in a way similar to your own love. They enjoy the company of their grandchildren and you know exactly how experienced they are in child rearing. So why would a grandparent not be the ideal babysitting solution?

They Don’t Take Instructions

A lot has changed since you were a child. Babies now sleep on their backs, and we know that breastfeeding is best. Your parents lovingly raised you, and some may not see why they have to change their ways just to conform to the times – no matter how scientifically based the rationale.

A neighborhood teenager, however, presumably has taken a babysitting class and is certified in first aid. They might have a better understanding of current methods and, if nothing else, are working for you. They are receptive to instructions and might be more likely to do as you ask than your own parents who still consider you their little one rather than an informed parent in your own right.

They Aren’t Convenient

Many grandparents don’t live in the same town as their grandchildren. This poses an obvious problem to babysitting. Even those grandparents who live nearby might not be as convenient as bringing in a babysitter from the neighborhood.

Most grandparents prefer to stay in their own homes. You might feel a bit uncomfortable with your mother alone in your house checking up on your cleaning and laundry skills. You either have to drive your children over to your parents’ home or scrub in anticipation of their visit to yours. The trouble moving sleeping little ones from one house to another might be another reason to simply keep them at home.

They Aren’t Up for the Challenge

As much as they would love to spend time with their grandchildren, some adults of the previous generation are no longer physically able to keep up with a toddler or heft around an infant.

You might not feel confident that your parents can move fast enough to catch your running toddler or be strong enough to lift a sleeping baby in and out of the crib. If this is the case, visit your parents frequently, but leave the heavy duty child care to someone a bit younger and more physically capable.