Wisdom And Support For Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Being a grandparent is a joyous experience for many, but some grandparents find themselves in a different role altogether - raising their grandchildren. This unexpected turn of events brings with it unique challenges and responsibilities that are different from the traditional grandparent-grandchild relationship. In this article, we will explore the wisdom, support, and resources available for grandparents who find themselves taking on the role of primary caregiver for their grandchildren.

The Rise of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of grandparents raising their grandchildren. This phenomenon can be attributed to various reasons, including parents' substance abuse, incarceration, mental illness, or death. Regardless of the circumstances, grandparents stepping in to care for their grandchildren face numerous emotional and practical challenges.

Emotional Impacts on Grandparents

The emotional impact on grandparents can be profound. While they may feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose in caring for their grandchildren, they may also experience feelings of loss, grief, and stress. Adjusting to the demands of parenting later in life can be physically and emotionally exhausting. It is essential for grandparents to seek support networks and resources to navigate these challenging emotions.

The Grandfamily Guidebook: Wisdom and Support for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

by Andrew Adesman(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5135 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages

FREE

Legal Considerations for Grandparents

Grandparents who become full-time caregivers for their grandchildren often face complex legal considerations. They may need to establish legal guardianship or obtain custody of the children to ensure their well-being and access to benefits. Navigating the legal system can be daunting, but there are organizations and professionals available to provide guidance on how to navigate these processes.

Financial Challenges and Resources

Raising children comes with financial responsibilities, and this is especially true for grandparents who may be living on a fixed income. The added expenses of childcare, education, and healthcare can put a strain on their finances. However, there are financial resources available, such as government assistance programs and support groups, that can help alleviate some of the financial burden.

Seeking Support from Other Grandparents

Connecting with other grandparents who are raising their grandchildren can be immensely beneficial. These support groups provide an opportunity to share experiences, seek advice, and build a network of understanding individuals who are facing similar challenges. Online forums, local community centers, and social media groups are excellent places to find support and connect with others in similar situations.

Self-Care for Grandparents

While it can be easy for grandparents to prioritize the needs of their grandchildren above their own, it is essential for them to remember self-care. Taking time for themselves, seeking respite care, and maintaining their physical and mental well-being are crucial to their ability to provide effective support and care for their grandchildren.

Benefitting the Grandchildren

While the challenges of raising grandchildren can be overwhelming at times, it is important to remember the positive impact it has on the grandchildren. Research has shown that children raised by their grandparents experience stability, love, and a sense of belonging, which can positively influence their overall well-being and future success.

Grandparents who find themselves raising their grandchildren face a unique set of challenges, but they are not alone. The wisdom gained through experience, combined with the support and resources available, can provide them with the guidance and tools necessary to navigate this journey successfully. By seeking support, prioritizing self-care, and utilizing available resources, grandparents can ensure the best possible outcomes for themselves and their grandchildren.

The Grandfamily Guidebook: Wisdom and Support for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

by Andrew Adesman(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5135 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages

FREE

The coronavirus crisis is causing many of us to take on new family roles. This book offers tips and advice for those who step in to care for the children of their children, on a temporary or permanent basis

Are you one of nearly 3 million grandparents across North America raising your grandchildren as part of a grandfamily? You may have done all this parenting stuff before, but times have changed since you raised your own kids, and you likely never thought you’d be raising kids again.

What has led to all these family issues and the growing need for grandparents to step up? Now more than ever, substance use and addiction have made many birth parents simply unfit for the job, whether the problem is alcohol, opioids, or other drugs. Family dynamics might also be undermined by parents’ mental health or medical problems, incarceration, or a simple lack of preparedness for family responsibilities. Whatever the reason for your new role, you must now help your grandchildren adjust to their extended family as part of their everyday life, through the best care you are able to provide. While your new role means that you will likely have to change the way you live, the kinship care you provide your grandchildren might make all the difference in the world.

In The Grandfamily Guidebook—which leading medical experts have called a “must-have” resource for grandparents raising grandchildren—authors Andrew Adesman, MD, and Christine Adamec offer expert medical advice, helpful insights gleaned from other grandparents, and data mined from the 2016 Adesman Grandfamily Study—the broadest and most diverse research study of its kind to date. You’ll also find hands-on tips you’ll be able to reference whenever you need them, including how to cope with difficult birth parents, school issues and social-life challenges, problem behaviors that stem from a difficult past, and your own self-care. 

Starting with its foreword by the renowned Dr. William Sears, across this book you will find practical, inspiring help as you navigate the financial impacts, legal considerations, and medical issues that commonly arise when grandparents and grandchildren start becoming a grandfamily.