Spring 2007 Volume 4, Number 1

The Special Job of Grandparenting Today

Jane Kostelc, MS
Curriculum Development Manager
Parents as Teachers National Center
314-432-4330 ext., 272
jane.kostelc@ParentsAsTeachers.org

The word “grandparent” may make you think of a gentle, grey-haired person who bakes the best cookies and tells family stories. And, indeed, many grandparents do just those things. But today grandparents play many roles in the lives of their families. Their special relationships with their grandchildren can be nurturing and enriching for all generations. Here are some things that are the special job of grandparents.

Grandparents can be playmates Grandparents often feel freer to get down on the floor and play with babies and toddlers. The jobs of disciplining, protecting, and providing for can be assumed by your adult children, giving you the opportunity to provide one-on-one attention. Take opportunities to learn about child development and age-appropriate ways to play.

Grandparents pass down traditions Grandparents remember how and why traditions are celebrated within the family. Telling stories of the past, even if it’s recent, communicates your cultural practices and beliefs. Share your family’s history and culture with your grandchildren from the time they are very young. It’s rewarding to see children grow in the knowledge of who they are, where their family came from, and what their family stands for.

Grandparents can be caregivers Many grandparents care for their grandchildren. This commitment can range from occasional babysitting to being the legal guardian and primary caregiver. As a grandparent, you may face tough decisions about caring for your grandchild. How much time are you willing to commit? Does your grandchild’s situation make it
necessary for you to take legal responsibility for him?

There are many places to get help with this challenging job. One is Parents as Teachers, a family support and education program for families with children age prenatal to 5 years. Every school district in the state of Missouri has a Parents as Teachers program that provides personal visits, group meetings, developmental screening, and referral to resources in your
community. Any family with a child prenatal to age 5 is welcome to enroll. It’s easy to feel isolated when you are a grandparent raising a grandchild. Know that you are not alone, and that Parents as Teachers is able to help you. Visit the Parents as Teachers web site, www.ParentsAsTeachers.org or call your school district.