Although grandparents have helped with the rearing of their grandchildren throughout history, an all too common trend in the United States today is that of retirement age grandparents having full responsibilities for their grandchildren. Suddenly, these grandparents or even great grandparents are dealing with baby bath toys while the new parent continues living reckless lifestyles.
In this growing problem, it has been estimated that over eight million grandchildren live with their grandparents with the parents out of the picture. This common problem seems to be growing on a daily basis.
Grandparents need to consider some of the legal issues when raising their grandchildren. If you are able to gain legal custody of the child or children, you will be able to ensure a more stable life for the child and provide needed health insurance for them. Without this, you may be legally responsible for their healthcare without insurance coverage.
If you are a grandparent responsible for a grandchild, you may need some help coping with all the extra work that this task brings your way. Suddenly, you find yourself packing school lunches and in the role of soccer mom once again. If you are not careful, your relationship with your child, the grandchild’s parent will suffer.
While there are still limits, many social agencies are more helpful to grandparents that they were in the past. Many advocacy agencies have worked hard to bring about grandparents rights. You may want to consider joining one of these support groups.
Although there are many costs to be paid by grandparents raising their grandchildren, most find the experience very rewarding.
Most grandchildren that are being raised by a grandparent are very grateful for the stable home life that the grandparent offers. In fact, some studies show that these grandchildren are much less rebellious than one’s own children. They recognize that the grandparents are doing all that is possible to keep things together and are willing to help.
Retirement years may take on a new role as a grandparent raising a grandchild, however life often requires that we adjust. As a grandparent with a grandchild that needs you, what other choice do you have. The task may not be easy, but it is your chance to provide for a child that is in need.