From Valleynewslive · · 50s
Raising Grandkids Full-Time: What Grandparents Need
Grandparents stepping into full-time parenting face stress but gain empathy and legacy.
In brief
Grandparents stepping into full-time parenting face stress but gain empathy and legacy. Grandparents raising grandchildren need legal groundwork, support, and patience to handle the role's demands. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
First thing, breathe
Grandparents stepping into full-time parenting need patience and self-compassion.
“First thing, breathe”
Over 2 million grandparents
More than 2 million grandparents in the United States raise grandchildren.
Get legal groundwork
Establish legal guardianship and seek support from schools or groups like ParentsHelpingParents.org.
“I think I’d want them to get the legal stuff taken care of, like you need to become guardian”
Pace yourself
Grandparents should not expect the energy levels of their younger years when raising children.
“Don’t let yourself raise your kids with the idea that you should have the energy level that you had at 30 at 60”
Experience is key
Grandparents' maturity and patience often make them better caregivers than parents were.
“I’m a much, much better grandparent than I ever was a parent”
Legacy for grandchildren
Grandparents provide love and support that shape grandchildren's future success.
“The most important thing that a grandparent gives is you give a good foundation”
What to remember
Grandparents raising grandchildren need legal groundwork, support, and patience to handle the role's demands.
