I found a great video clip that address many of the issues faced by grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Grandparents are finding themselves raising their grandchildren in record numbers due to such things as drug use, death, imprisonment, teen births, AIDS, and divorce. One grandparent explained, "I'm supposed to be enjoying my golden years, but instead I'm now caring for my grandkids who are entering their wonder years."The video addresses some of the policy and legal complications grandparents face in caring for their grandchildren. Organizaitons like Grandparents As Parents (GAP) are sprouting up around the nation to reach out, provide support and help these families navigate the system.
I think that this is sad. It is difficult for grandparents to care for young children both physically and mentally. At the same time, I see grandparents as an important family support and are a large factor in culturally diverse families.
ReplyDeleteI cannot imagine how difficult it would be to primarily care for children as a grandparent. I am physically tired myself most of the time. However, I think that it is fortunate for many that the grandparents can/will do it.
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