When Grandparents Become Parents: How to Succeed at Raising Your Children's Children

Grandparents raising grandchildren is a growing epidemic, affecting seniors' dreams and straining limited incomes. However, they are acting as kinsman-redeemers, keeping grandchildren out of foster care and giving them a successful life. Rick Johnson's book offers strategies and resources to deal with stress, incorporating humor, common sense, and practical advice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2022
Publisher: Regnery Publishing Inc

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Quiet Epidemic in Our Culture
Grandparents raising grandchildren is a rapidly growing phenomenon in our culture, with numerous reasons contributing to this trend. The death of an adult child, parental drug addiction, abusive living situations, or incarceration are just a few of the factors that can lead to grandparents taking on the responsibility of raising their grandchildren. While there are many challenges associated with this role, there are also many solutions and strategies that can help grandparents navigate the complexities of parenting and disciplining children many decades their junior.
One of the primary challenges faced by grandparents raising grandchildren is the financial strain. Many seniors on limited incomes are struggling to make ends meet, and the additional expenses associated with raising children can be overwhelming. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression, as well as physical health problems. Additionally, grandparents may face discrimination in the workplace, as employers may not be willing to accommodate their caregiving responsibilities.
Another challenge is the mental, spiritual, and physical exhaustion of parenting and disciplining children many decades their junior. Grandparents may not have the same energy levels or patience as younger parents, and they may struggle to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as well as a sense of failure.
Despite these challenges, grandparents raising grandchildren are acting as kinsman-redeemers for their grandchildren. They are keeping them out of the foster care system and giving them the best shot possible for a successful life. In the book "When Grandparents Become Parents," experienced author Rick Johnson details both the challenges and solutions these heroic seniors face, offering strategies and resources to deal with major areas of stress. Johnson incorporates humor, common sense, and practical advice along the way, making the book a valuable resource for grandparents raising grandchildren.
One of the key strategies for grandparents raising grandchildren is to seek support from other family members. This can include siblings, cousins, and other relatives who can offer assistance with childcare, financial support, and emotional support. Grandparents can also join support groups or seek counseling to help them cope with the challenges of parenting and disciplining children.
Another strategy is to create a routine and structure for the children. This can include setting bedtimes, meal times, and homework times, as well as providing opportunities for physical activity and socialization. Grandparents can also use technology to help them stay connected with their grandchildren, such as video calls and social media.
It is also important for grandparents to maintain their own health and well-being. This can include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and seeking medical care when needed. Grandparents can also take time for themselves to relax and recharge, such as taking a vacation or attending a support group.
In addition to these strategies, grandparents can also work to build a positive relationship with their grandchildren. This can include spending time with them, listening to them, and showing them love and affection. Grandparents can also help their grandchildren develop their skills and interests, such as music, art, or sports.
However, it is important to note that raising grandchildren can be a challenging and demanding role. Grandparents may face a range of challenges, including behavioral issues, academic problems, and health issues. It is important for grandparents to be prepared to address these challenges and to seek support when needed.
One of the most important things that grandparents can do to prepare for raising grandchildren is to educate themselves. This can include reading books, attending workshops, and seeking advice from other grandparents. Grandparents can also learn about the latest trends and technologies in parenting and discipline, so that they can be more effective in their role.
In conclusion, grandparents raising grandchildren is a rapidly growing phenomenon in our culture, with numerous reasons contributing to this trend. While there are many challenges associated with this role, there are also many solutions and strategies that can help grandparents navigate the complexities of parenting and disciplining children many decades their junior. By seeking support from other family members, creating a routine and structure for the children, maintaining their own health and well-being, building a positive relationship with their grandchildren, and educating themselves, grandparents can help ensure that their grandchildren have the best shot possible for a successful life.

Weight: 254g
Dimension: 140 x 217 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781684511716