When your brother or sister has a kid, they’ll expect you to spend a lot of time with the newest member of the family, but you might find it challenging to know what to do with them when they’re not your kid.
If that’s you, keep reading. Most of parenting comes naturally, whereas being an uncle usually doesn’t. If you want to work on that and learn how to be the best uncle in the world, this guide is just what you need.
Spend More Time With Them
If you don’t spend much time around your nieces and nephews, it’s no wonder that you don’t know what to do with them. That’s why spending time with them is the first step to becoming the best uncle.
Being around them regularly will help you learn about their likes and dislikes, what they find funny, and anything else that will help you build a rapport with them. Once you know all of that, you’ll be able to tailor how you act around them to have fun and make memorable experiences.
You can also be the one they go to if their toy breaks. Something like an electric ride-on is way easier to diagnose and fix than you might think. Regardless of how you decide to be there for them, those kids will appreciate it.
Be the Fun Uncle, Not the Crazy One
There’s a fine line between being the fun uncle and the crazy uncle, so your most crucial task is to figure out where that line is and not cross it. Knowing when to crack a joke or the perfect kind of magic trick to amaze your niece or nephew with is the key to becoming the best.
Be a Part of Important Events
After you’ve discovered how to be the best uncle in the world, it’s time to make sure you hold on to that title.
That means showing up to events that are important to your niece or nephew. You’ll never want to miss their birthday or favorite holiday. Coming out for the big game will also put a smile on their face when they see you there cheering them on.
And don’t let distance be the reason why you don’t try. Even if you can’t make it to your niece’s or nephew’s party, setting up a time to video chat with them on their big day will mean the world to them. Don’t be afraid to get creative.
Be Supportive When Needed
On top of being there for the good times, you’ll need to be there for the bad times, too, especially when they get older. Sometimes, Mom and Dad just won’t understand what they’re going through, so being a willing listener when they’re upset will cement you as the best uncle they could have ever asked for.
Try to talk some sense into them or show them their parent’s view from a different angle. If they trust you, you might be able to reach them in a way that their parents never could.