There’s a fine line between connecting with your Gen Z grandkids and trying too hard.
That line comes down to authenticity. Attempting to engage with them by imitating their slang or interests, while your heart isn’t in it, can feel forced.
On the flip side, genuinely showing interest in their world, while staying true to yourself, can bridge the generational gap.
Navigating this space can be a bit challenging. And that’s where I come in, to help you identify the signs that you might be overdoing it.
Here are seven signs you’re trying way too hard to relate to your Gen Z grandkids. Let’s keep this light-hearted and remember, they love you for who you are, not how well you can mimic them.
1) You’re using their slang… incorrectly
There’s nothing wrong with picking up a few new words from your Gen Z grandkids.
But when you start throwing around terms like “lit” or “on fleek” without fully understanding their meaning, it can come off as trying too hard.
Language evolves with each generation, and it’s important to respect that. It’s great to learn new expressions, but using them inappropriately or excessively can create a communication barrier instead of bridging it.
Remember, genuine conversation trumps cool lingo any day. So next time you’re tempted to drop a “YOLO” into the conversation, consider if it’s really adding value or just making you seem out of touch.
Keep the conversations real and relatable, not a test of your urban dictionary prowess.
2) You’re overdoing it on social media
I remember the first time I tried to connect with my Gen Z grandkids on social media. I thought it would be a great way to keep up with their lives and show my interest in what they do.
I started liking every single post, leaving comments on each photo and even tried using hashtags in my responses. I thought I was being supportive and involved.
But then, my granddaughter gently told me that my social media enthusiasm was a bit overwhelming.
She appreciated my interest but explained that incessantly liking and commenting on every post made her and her friends a bit uncomfortable.
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It was a wake-up call. I realized that while it’s great to engage with them online, there’s a balance to be struck. Too much interaction can come off as intrusive or overbearing.
So now, I like a photo here and there, occasionally comment on something special, and enjoy their posts without turning it into a full-time job. And our online relationship is much better for it.
3) You’re trying to keep up with every trend
From TikTok dances to VSCO girls, Gen Z culture is brimming with trends. It’s natural to want to understand these trends to connect better with your grandkids.
However, Gen Z is the most internet-savvy generation yet. They are known for creating and dropping trends at lightning speed. One day, a certain phrase or dance move is all the rage, and the next, it’s considered outdated.
If you’re constantly chasing after these trends, it can come off as exhausting and inauthentic. It might even make your grandkids feel like they need to keep you updated on every fleeting internet fad.
Instead of trying to ride every wave, focus on understanding their core values and interests. These are the things that remain constant amidst the rapidly changing digital landscape.
4) You’re dressing like you’re part of their generation
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, and it’s fun to experiment with different styles. But if you’re raiding the teen section of the store to buy the latest Gen Z fashion trends, it might be a sign you’re trying too hard.
Being stylish is not about wearing what’s trending among teenagers, but about dressing in a way that makes you feel good and confident.
Adopting an entirely new wardrobe just to fit in with your grandkids can seem overbearing.
Instead, embrace your own style while appreciating theirs. Your grandkids will respect you more for being comfortable in your own skin and setting an example of self-confidence.
5) You’re forcing shared interests
I’ve always been a fan of classical music. The harmonious melody, the intricate compositions – it’s soothing to my soul. But my Gen Z grandson is more into electronic dance music (EDM), a genre I never quite understood.
In my attempt to bond with him, I started listening to EDM tracks, trying to find some connection. I even went to a couple of live shows with him. But the truth is, the loud beats and flashing lights were overwhelming for me.
And worse, my grandson could tell I wasn’t enjoying it. It felt forced, and we both knew it.
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I learned then that shared interests can’t be manufactured. It’s okay to have different preferences.
Instead of pretending to like what they like, I started exposing him to my world of classical music. To my surprise, he started appreciating some pieces.
Now we share music with each other – his EDM tracks and my classical symphonies. Our bond is stronger because we appreciate our differences, not just our similarities.
6) You’re oversharing their life
It’s wonderful to be proud of your grandkids and their accomplishments. However, constantly posting about their life events on social media or sharing their stories with your friends without their consent can cross a line.
Gen Z values their privacy and wants to control their narrative. They may not want every achievement or moment broadcasted, especially if it’s shared without asking them first.
Respecting their privacy is crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship. Always ask for their permission before sharing something about them publicly.
It shows that you respect their boundaries, and they’ll appreciate you for it.
7) You’re forgetting to be yourself
The most important part of building a relationship with your Gen Z grandkids is staying true to who you are. You’re their grandparent, not their peer, and they value you for your wisdom, experiences, and unique perspective.
Trying to morph into a Gen Z version of yourself can come off as disingenuous. You can learn about their world and engage with their interests without losing your own identity.
Remember, the best way to connect with your grandkids is by being authentic. Show interest in their lives, share your own stories, and create a bond based on mutual respect and understanding.
That’s the kind of connection that stands the test of time.
Endnote: It’s all about connection
The essence of human relationships lies in understanding and mutual respect. This is particularly true when it comes to bridging generational gaps.
For grandparents, connecting with Gen Z grandkids may seem like navigating uncharted territory. The rapid pace of technology and shifting cultural norms can be overwhelming.
However, it’s crucial to remember that at the heart of it all, they are just kids – trying to figure out the world just like we did at their age.
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They have their unique language, trends, and interests, but they also have the same basic needs for love, understanding, and connection.
So instead of trying too hard to fit into their world, invite them into yours. Share your experiences, wisdom, and values with them. Show genuine interest in their lives without overstepping their boundaries.
In doing so, you’ll not only foster a stronger bond with your Gen Z grandkids but also enrich their lives with the wealth of your experience and the warmth of your love.
And remember, the goal is not to become a part of their generation but to understand them better and let them know they are understood, valued, and loved for who they are.
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