How to Raise a Grandchild

If you are a grandparent raising your grandchild, you are not alone. More than 2.4 million grandparents are also raising their grandchildren. While bringing up a new generation can be tiring and trying, it is 100% worthwhile when your family is in need and you are able to offer the help to support and love your grandchildren. Through your times of need in a new parental role, there are many opportunities to help you with support, information and resources.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Establish your legal status to your grandchildren. It is wise to seek council from an attorney to know what legal status is best for you, your child and your grandchildren. Many grandparents ask to become the legal guardians so that they may make important decisions for the children such as enrollment in school, medical care and financial aid.

2. Evaluate your new financial situation. Providing food, clothes and essentials for your grandchildren may add a new level of expenses to your monthly spending plan. There are many state and federal programs that can assist you and your family with temporary assistance or Social Security. You may also qualify for tax credits or new deductions. Ask the IRS or your accountant what new tax details you may qualify for. Complete a detailed examination as you check out the options that are available to you and your new household.

3. Evaluate your current living arrangements. Your current home may be cozy and appropriate for you, but may need adjustments that will be suitable for your grandchildren, their age and specific needs. To make them feel special and important during this change in their lives, be sure to create a special room for them to sleep and have a space of their own.

4. Examine local schools to enroll your grandchildren. Creating consistency and stability in their education help kids adjust to the their new living situation with more ease and gives them a comfort of keeping a routine and regularity. Talk to the school's teacher and counselor to let them know of your family's new household so that they may be understanding toward or aware of any behavioral situations with the children.

5. Become knowledgeable in your grandchildren's medical history. It is important to know all details from current health insurance or of any allergies or past medical circumstances and treatments. There are programs available to give you aid as you now take over their medical expenses. Check out programs such as Medicaid or Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

6. Maintain your health and energy. Raising a new generation can be exhausting. It is key that you protect your health with measures of good eating, exercise and plenty of rest. Do not be afraid to ask for help or even take time for yourself.

7. Stay strong! Despite the many hurdles you may encounter, keep faith in knowing that you are maintaining your grandchildren and their safety. And you are building memories with spending time with your grandchildren.