Description
Book SynopsisIf you're among the millions of grandparents raising grandchildren today, you need information, support, and practical guidance you can count on to keep your family strong. This is the book for you. Learn effective strategies to help you cope with the stresses of parenting the second time around, care for vulnerable grandkids and set boundaries with their often-troubled parents, and navigate the maze of government aid, court proceedings, and special education. Wise, honest, moving stories show how numerous other grandparents are surviving and thriving in their new roles. Updated throughout, and reflecting current laws and policies affecting families, the second edition features new discussions of kids' technology use and other timely issues.
Trade ReviewAn invaluable toolkit for grandfamilies--practical and insightful. The book skillfully navigates the difficult terrain that new and experienced caregivers face. Sylvie de Toledo is a pioneer working on behalf of these families. The second edition shows that her passion and commitment haven't diminished, and presents policy changes and resources that grandparents should know about.--Donna M. Butts, Executive Director, Generations United
With compassion, clarity, and wisdom, this book provides indispensable advice. The authors recognize the extraordinary challenges that grandparents confront in approaching parenthood for a second and unexpected time. Grandparents as Parents is a 'must read' that will benefit the whole family.--Andrew Bridge, Executive Director, Child Welfare Initiative; author of Hope's Boy: A Memoir - This is a reference book, a character-builder, a challenge and a friend. --Seniors Today, 6/17/2013ƒƒ Recommended. --Library Journal, 6/17/2013
Table of ContentsIntroduction
I. When the Second Shift Arrives
1. Unplanned Parenthood: "Why Me?"
2. Taking Immediate Action
3. Your Lifestyle: Changed and Challenged
4. Family at Large: Your Spouse and Other Children
5. Your Adult Child
6. Your Troubled Grandchild
7. Your Grandchild and the School
8. The Drug Epidemic at Home
9. When Parents Get Their Children Back
II. Through the Red Tape
10. Grandparenting and the Law
11. Child Protection and the Dependency System
12. Government Aid and Public Assistance
13. Special Education and Early Intervention
III. Strength in Numbers
14. Their Arms about Us: Finding and Forming Support Groups
15. Conclusion
Appendix A. Resources for Grandparents and Relative Caregivers
Appendix B. Conversation Topics for Grandparent Support Groups
Appendix C. Poem: Thank You to the Relatives of The Crying Woman
