Grandparents raising Grandchildren

Duke · 11-07-2004, 05:31 PM

The ever-changing evolution of the term family has been taking on an even newer meaning to an increasing number of Grandparents. "According to the 2000 U.S. Census, just more than 4.5 million grandchildren -- slightly more than 6 percent of all children in the country -- are cared for by their grandparents."

This situation, of course, is not without it's challenges. <u>MSN Family</u> gives grandparents some help on how to deal with issues such as sticking to rules, dealing with emotion, and proper communication.

Merika · 11-08-2004, 09:36 AM

Vent your frustration. It's normal to feel angry with your children -- and feel guilty about being angry -- for putting you in this situation (even if you volunteered for the job!). Find friends -- not the kids -- to confide in. "You are not wrong for feeling this way," says Nelson.

This would be the hurdle I would have to cross over. If my kids had kids and something happened to them....I would gladly finish raising my grandchildren. However, if I had to raise the kids because they were sorry parents or on drugs.....I'd be pissed. Not at the grandchildren....but at my kids.

I've known Grandparents who raise their grandkids. I've worked with guys in that position. Some seem to do very well with it. Others say it's just too hard on their nerves as they've gotten older.

So, I guess it all depends on the circumstances.

Duke · 11-08-2004, 12:29 PM

Everyones different Merika. I'd hate having to raise my grandchildren as well but would if it meant they remained in the family. The thought of kids hurting because my kids are crummy parents is too much for me to take.

Merika · 11-08-2004, 01:52 PM

I didn't say I wouldn't do it....I just said it would piss me off that my kids put me in that position. LOL!

While you are still young it doesn't seem like a big deal. The thought of starting over with babies again at this point in my life....would be an act of love...but I wouldn't be real excited about it.

After you do the teen thing....it leaves you VERY tired! HAHA!

Star · 11-08-2004, 02:47 PM

I'm 40 and about to be raising my first grandchild. I'm still young and capable of doing it. I'll probably have more patience then I did with my own at this point in my life.

I think if I were any older, I'd be really scared because you do lose your patience when you reach a certain age. My parents are young also to be great-grandparents. My dad is only 62 and my mom is 59. Now they would be too old to raise this baby but I know some people do; some have no choice.

Krystal is in the hospital now beginning her labor. I've been there all day, came to my parents place to have a couple hours rest before they induce her with the drip and things get really painful. My mother is with her now. I'll be sure to let you all know what we have! We should have this little angel with us today sometime!

Duke · 11-08-2004, 06:17 PM

Looking forward to it. Good luck to you and your family!

Merika · 11-08-2004, 10:34 PM

I can't wait to hear the good news Star!!!!

Duke · 11-08-2004, 10:36 PM

Am I the only one getting impatient lol

Star · 11-09-2004, 02:49 PM

It's a baby girl! and she's beautiful! Her name is Erika. Krystal chose the name as soon as she seen her. She had a c-section this morning. She was born at 11:25 a.m. today and weighed 6 lbs, 4 oz and 19 inches long. Completely healthy! She's such a beautiful little angel.

Duke · 11-09-2004, 03:00 PM

Awesome, little girls are truly God's creatures.

Congradulations to you and your family star and thanks for posting.

If you want any pictures uploaded to the site then let me know.

Star · 11-09-2004, 07:11 PM

I can post a picture of my precious erika on here? how? I'd love to show her off to the world!

Duke · 11-09-2004, 07:20 PM

You need the files uploaded to somewhere on the net. If you don't have any webspace then I can host them for you.

Merika · 11-09-2004, 09:12 PM

I posted Erika a Welcome in Off Topics to make sure everyone knows she is here!

I'm so happy everything went well for Krystal and Erika. I know how a baby can fill your heart with so much love and joy....until you forget what all took place before they got here!

I'm looking forward to the pictures and hearing about all the wonderful days ahead with your new little angel!

We all smile with you Star!!!!

Merika

Duke · 11-09-2004, 09:41 PM

I replied, again :roll: