megram - Index

megram - 55GTA - Index

Philosophy
dence. Grandparents can support them by being encouraging
and empathetic, by being open and communicative,
and by respecting their parenting practices. Offering to
babysit and setting up your home so that it is safe and
comfortable for your grandchildren are practical ways to
show your support. Parents welcome your involvement
and support.
3 Be open to new possibilities. Pregnancy,childbirth
and early childrearing practices have changed significantly
since we raised our children.One of the biggest changes
is the active involvement of the father. Grandparents need
to be open and accepting of the new ways of doing
things. Use the OLD method (Observe, Learn, Decide)
when confronted with new practices that you find disconcerting:
observe the parents and support them in their
decisions whenever possible; learn about the new practice
or theory;and once you are informed,decide how you
will act.
4 Embrace diversity. There have been dramatic
changes in marriage, family structures and parenthood
over the last two generations. During times of family conflict,
grandparents can provide a stable, caring, non-judgmental
and loving presence for their grandchildren and
adult children. They can help children cope with their
feelings and make them feel secure and loved. They can
help their adult children get through this hard time and
work to maintain positive relationships with both parents.
With patience, consistency and time, grandparents can
build loving, meaningful relationships with step-grandchildren.
5 Be accepting, empathetic and positive. Grandparents
can contribute to the long-term health and happiness
of their grandchildren. When we accept them for
who they are, and build on their existing strengths, we
help them develop the skills that will make them more
resilient. By listening to them and putting ourselves in
September 2008 • 43 • Fifty-Five Plus Magazine