You were planning to relax, focus on your hobbies, travel and enjoy being a grandparent. Now you’re raising your grandchildren and experiencing parenthood again, except you’re older and have less energy for it.
You’re not alone. Grandfamilies have been trending up since the 1970s. In the U.S. 2.5 million grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren, according to data gathered by the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network and published by Grandfamilies.org.
Why Do Grandparents Raise Their Grandkids?
Grandparent caregiving is driven by a variety of factors, including parental abandonment or neglect, unemployment, substance abuse, incarceration, mental health issues or death.
Helpful Tips for Raising Your Grandchildren
1. Do Your Homework
Research information and support available for grandparents in your situation. Look into government agencies, school programs, community resources and support groups.
2. Establish a Routine
Kids need boundaries and structure. Establish morning, after-school and evening routines that include meals, homework, play times and chores.
3. Network With Other Grandfamilies
Connect with grandparents who are also raising their grandchildren so that you may encourage and help each other.
4. Determine Your Eligibility for Help
Go to BenefitsCheckUp.org to see if you qualify for government benefits that can help pay for your grandchildren’s food, healthcare, etc.
5. Pursue Tax Credits
Adults raising children can apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit. If you make too much money for the EITC, apply for the Child Tax Credit. If you’re raising three or more kids, apply for the Additional Child Tax Credit.
6. Consider Your Legal Status
Ask a family law attorney to help you determine if you should become your grandchildren’s legal guardian, which would allow you to make key decisions about their education and medical treatment.
7. Take Time for Yourself
Don’t neglect your needs. Take breaks to relax and engage in activities that you enjoy. Eat right, exercise and keep a consistent sleep schedule.
8. Be a Grandparent Sometimes
Look for times when you can create special memories with your grandchildren. Enjoy the little moments, and set up traditions that your grandchildren can look forward to in the future.
Resources
- Programs and organizations in the States.
- Programs and organizations in Puerto Rico.
- AARP’s Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: offers information on a variety of subjects for grandparents who are just starting to raise their grandchildren.
Raising grandchildren can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. They say it takes a village, so use the resources available to you to help you navigate this process.
Sources: Grandfamilies.org, Generations United, HelpGuide.org, AARP, Today, NCHS, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
