GRANDPARENTING: A Blessing and Responsibility

PUBLISHED IN THE EVANGEL // August 28, 2006

by Henrietta Powell, Family Enrichment Committee member

Gramma, Memom, Grandpa, Papa - regardless of the name, this role is special and meaningful. What fun to share excitement and pleasures! Grandparents also can provide support and understanding in times of sadness and disappointment. The contributions grandparents make to their families are extraordinary and very important.

Grandparenting allows you to do things you haven't done in years - coloring, playing on a swing, splashing in puddles. Here are some other suggestions to enrich your relationship with your grandchild:

» Give a picture of the grandparents to the new baby to hang on or by the baby's bed allowing the young child to begin recognizing these special family members.

» Tape your reading of a story for the preschooler and send the tape and book so the child can follow while listening to the tape. (Be sure to add the *beep* to turn the page!)

» Express interest in the child and activities such as music, dance, sports, drama, science. Whenever possible be personally supportive by attending, sending a note, or calling.

» Purchase and donate a toy or clothing item to the Nashville Baptist Association Toy Store. Share with your grandchild that this donation was given in his/her name to help a less fortunate child. In this way you honor your grandchild and minister to others.

It is important for grandparents to remember that the parents have primary responsibility for the care, decisions, and development of the child. At times it is almost impossible for grandparents to refrain from giving unsolicited opinions. However, for family harmony and unity, it is imperative to remember that these decisions are for the parents to make for their family unit.

Enjoy your time as a grandparent! With a little thought, finesse, and devotion, grandparents can be nurturing role models.

Happy Grandparenting - there is no blessing quite like it!

Editor's Note: Grandparents Day is September 10.