"My 10-year-old son doesn\'t like his grandparents!"

QUERY: My 10-year-old son doesn't want to spend time with my parents and it gets pretty embarrassing for me. He says that he gets bored at their place and avoids meeting them. My in laws rejoice everytime he says that and I fear that nowadays he says it just to please them. Somewhere he seems to be internalising it too. How should I handle this situation?
EXPERT: From what you have shared seems like you are very disturbed with the way your son has been feeling about your parents.

However, I would like you to understand that children, nowadays, do not like to meet relatives, extended families unless and until the family has children of their age with whom they can interact or play. That is the major reason behind your child's boredom. In this case, you must explain the importance of grandparents to your son - both maternal and paternal grandparents are equally important.

You can further elaborate by saying that he will miss out on the time spent with them, the wisdom they have to offer and the kind of experiences they have had.

Try to help your parents find common things that interest both your parents and your son so that they can have fun while having amicable discussions. I'm certain their bond will develop into a beautiful relationship over a period of time.
Dr. Rachna Khanna Singh is the HOD of the Holistic Medicine & Psychology - Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon