Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
What would the world be like without grandparents? I think it would be a very sad and empty place. Whether you are a grandparent who is only able to visit your grandchildren periodically because of distance, or you are a single grandparent raising 6 grandchildren on your own, you make tremendous contributions to this world.
You have not only raised your children, but you can go beyond that by helping your grandchildren learn and grow. You are able to provide them with great insight into your past by painting a picture of your life, your experiences, your work and family values. You can also share the politics, wars, technology, music, dance and entertainment of your era, which provides tremendous educational value.
You are teachers, historians, counselors, coaches, homemakers, travelers and financial planners. You provide encouragement, self-esteem, advice, support, reassurance, shoulders to cry on, honesty, hugs, kisses, unconditional love and cookies. You are caring, understanding, sympathetic, loyal, dedicated, fun, humorous, and giving. And when the going gets tough, you’re always there, willing and able to lend a helping hand.
If you are a grandparent who is raising your grandchildren, you may not want to ask for help because, after all, you are the one that has always helped out when someone needed you. That’s why your grandchildren are there with you now.
There is nothing wrong with asking for assistance in your situation. That is why there are so many resources available to help grandparents raising grandchildren, because 1) it is a growing trend, and 2) you shouldn’t have to do it alone.
Be aware of resources available in your community as well as on the internet. Take advantage (I know…not in your vocabulary) of what they have to offer. In the right column, you’ll find some resources available that I have bookmarked for your convenience. I’m continuously updating the list, so check back often for more. You have dedicated your life to helping others, and I’m dedicating my life to helping you.
Really nice posts. I will be checking back here regularly.