Grandparents involvement in grandchildren's lives
In our fast-paced, modern world, the value of family connections can sometimes be overshadowed by the demands of daily life. Yet, the proximity of grandparents can offer profound benefits to both the younger and older generations.
The most recent data shows that almost 1 out of 4 preschool children in the US are cared for by a grandparent (that's 4.8 million kids!).
Benefits for Grandparents to be in close proximity to their grandchildren
Living close to their grandchildren can have significant benefits for grandparents as well. Active involvement in their grandchildren's lives can promote physical activity, mental stimulation, and a sense of purpose. Studies have shown that grandparents who have close relationships with their grandchildren experience lower levels of depression and greater overall life satisfaction.
One study showed that adults aged over 60 years who spent on average 12 hours each week looking after grandchildren were 60% less likely to feel lonely than non-caregivers, and other research revealed similar trends.
Grandparents considering moving closer to family?
For grandparents considering a move to be closer to their adult children and grandchildren, the benefits are substantial and multifaceted. Such a move facilitates frequent, meaningful interactions that strengthen family bonds, provide emotional support, and promote healthy aging for grandparents. If your family is considering a move like this, the article below is a must read to address questions such as:
Do my/our adult children want us nearby? If so, how near might be too near?
Do they live some place that I/we would want to be?
What would I/we be leaving behind?
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/grandparenting-ready-to-move-for-family-202109072583
Grandparents caring for your children
The organization “Zero to Three” has an incredible Grandparent Guide designed to help grandparents learn more about critical research findings in the areas of discipline, nutrition, sleep, and play.
Boundaries with Grandparents
In this Birth Education Center Podcast episode, Care Messer and Kimberly Beppler, Postpartum Doula & Lactation Consultant and the owner of her own doula agency delve into the often-overlooked struggles new parents face, especially in an era where communal support has diminished. They highlight the balance between welcoming invaluable grandparent support and maintaining new family autonomy.
Grandparents and SLEEP!
I understand that successful sleep coaching often involves the entire family, including other caregivers such as grandparents. Recognizing the crucial role they play in the daily life of the family, I make it a point to involve grandparents in the sleep coaching process. Their support and consistency are vital in reinforcing the sleep strategies and routines we establish.
We make sure that Parents, caregivers and child are a TEAM through the entire process. By educating and empowering grandparents with the same knowledge and techniques I share with parents, we create a unified approach that ensures everyone is on the same page. This collaborative effort not only helps the child adapt more smoothly to new sleep patterns but also strengthens the overall family dynamic, fostering a cohesive and supportive environment for the child's growth and development.
Take the First Step
If you’ve been hesitating, wondering if sleep coaching is right for you, let me reassure you: the hardest part is deciding to start. From there, with expert guidance and your dedication, the progress will come quickly. This is your chance to transform your life in a way few other things can.
Ready to take the leap? Let’s talk about how sleep coaching can create your family’s transformation. You deserve this. Your baby deserves this. And your future self will thank you.
Let’s start with an easy first step, schedule a Sleep Strategy Session so me, you and your partner can have an 1 hr long zoom session so I can properly assess the sleep situation and determine if you need one-on-one sleep coaching support.
Let’s get your baby sleeping—and get YOU your sanity back.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
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