Very helpful comments at the end about having to stand back as a grandparent and watch the parents , one’s own children, engage in life styles and/or parenting practices (or non-practices) that we grandparents find troublesome. Kind of painful at times.
It’s uncanny but I always agree with Sofia. Re John’s question about viewing grandparenting as a second chance, Sofia’s response is correct. In fact, I waited with a bit of baited breath for her answer. Grandparenting is different kettle of fish in almost every respect and to try to “correct” parenting mistakes or “do a better job” takes the focus from the particular kids and needs involved. I confess to repeating customs or traditions with grandkids that were successful with my own kids, but such attempts often disappoint. Then you miss the new and rewarding things you can experience with grandkids!
I think the physical continuity is vital for children as well Sofia. I even see that in Iris, as you do in your son, and she loves to hear the stories of my own parents and my Grandma. This topic interests me but there is yet another side to the story. We raised our granddaughter from birth until a year ago and now she lives with her Mum - being a grandparent in these circumstances was/is tricky and has required us to be mindful that they need to grow in their own relationship and we need to support and encourage that. Elisabeth Elliot said that as grandparents "we are not here to lodge complaints (as in how they are parenting) but to be channels of prayer" along with our practical assistance.
Thank you so much, Cate. This is a wise insight coming from your practical experience. Your daughter and granddaughter are very blessed in you! --Sofia
I’m in the same situation as Cate. We’ve cared for two granddaughters since their birth. They are now 8 and 7 and we still have a fairly major role in their care. The parents , one of whom is our daughter, are well-situated now, but it is very difficult to back away from the primary parent role and “allow” the parents to take over.
@@amyderosa5517 it is nice to hear from someone else in the same position. It is incredibly painful to 'hand' your grandchild over to their rightful parent - like you, it was our young daughter - and to then navigate your way through your new role as grandparent. We are still in the infancy stage of this and like you, still have a major role in caring. But God knows the whole story and He gives us grace for each day.
@@catherinenunan3584thanks for your comment. Really appreciate. Sometimes when people say, “isn’t it great being a grandparent,” I stumble a bit in answering. Yes, it’s great, but, uh, you see, I’ve got this situation…..🤷🏻♀️. It is good to know there are others experiencing the same.
Very helpful comments at the end about having to stand back as a grandparent and watch the parents , one’s own children, engage in life styles and/or parenting practices (or non-practices) that we grandparents find troublesome. Kind of painful at times.
It’s uncanny but I always agree with Sofia. Re John’s question about viewing grandparenting as a second chance, Sofia’s response is correct. In fact, I waited with a bit of baited breath for her answer. Grandparenting is different kettle of fish in almost every respect and to try to “correct” parenting mistakes or “do a better job” takes the focus from the particular kids and needs involved. I confess to repeating customs or traditions with grandkids that were successful with my own kids, but such attempts often disappoint. Then you miss the new and rewarding things you can experience with grandkids!
Amy, I too always love what Sofia says! :) This is a great further perspective your provide. Thank you.
I think the physical continuity is vital for children as well Sofia. I even see that in Iris, as you do in your son, and she loves to hear the stories of my own parents and my Grandma. This topic interests me but there is yet another side to the story. We raised our granddaughter from birth until a year ago and now she lives with her Mum - being a grandparent in these circumstances was/is tricky and has required us to be mindful that they need to grow in their own relationship and we need to support and encourage that. Elisabeth Elliot said that as grandparents "we are not here to lodge complaints (as in how they are parenting) but to be channels of prayer" along with our practical assistance.
Thank you so much, Cate. This is a wise insight coming from your practical experience. Your daughter and granddaughter are very blessed in you! --Sofia
I’m in the same situation as Cate. We’ve cared for two granddaughters since their birth. They are now 8 and 7 and we still have a fairly major role in their care. The parents , one of whom is our daughter, are well-situated now, but it is very difficult to back away from the primary parent role and “allow” the parents to take over.
@@amyderosa5517 it is nice to hear from someone else in the same position. It is incredibly painful to 'hand' your grandchild over to their rightful parent - like you, it was our young daughter - and to then navigate your way through your new role as grandparent. We are still in the infancy stage of this and like you, still have a major role in caring. But God knows the whole story and He gives us grace for each day.
@@catherinenunan3584thanks for your comment. Really appreciate. Sometimes when people say, “isn’t it great being a grandparent,” I stumble a bit in answering. Yes, it’s great, but, uh, you see, I’ve got this situation…..🤷🏻♀️. It is good to know there are others experiencing the same.