SEPTEMBER ARTICLE: Grandparents Day

Every year, on the first Sunday after Labor Day, we celebrate Grandparents Day! It is a special day to honor and connect with grandparents and pay tribute to them for their involvement in our lives.

Grandparents often play a key role in supporting families, including grandchildren. Some grandparents live far but maintain close bonds through phone calls, video chats, and visits when they can. Others live nearby and are actively caring for their grandchildren. In some families, grandparents step in as primary caregivers, raising their grandchildren in their own homes.

The number of grandparents raising grandchildren is on the rise. While this role can be deeply rewarding- offering grandchildren stability, love, and a strong family connection- it also comes with significant adjustments. Grandparents often find themselves once again managing daily responsibilities such as homework, meals, sports, financial obligations, and busy schedules.

As a new school year approaches, here are a few tips for grandparents to help transition routines with grandchildren:

Calendar collaboration. Take time to review your schedule with your grandchildren’s schedule and make notes on your calendar(s). A large, easy to read wall calendar in a central space in the home will help everyone stay on track. It may be helpful to keep a calendar on your device so you can make updates when you are away from home. You can also set alerts to remind you about each event so you can arrive on time. Calendars are a critical tool when it comes to after school pick-up, school project due dates, sports, dance recitals, medical appointments and much more.

Keep keys and other necessary items in a designated spot. Each day can seem busier than the previous day, especially for grandparents raising grandchildren. From driving grandchildren to and from school, and to and from activities, grandparents often take on many daily responsibilities. Grandparents are “on the clock” as soon as the day begins. The night before, make a habit of putting your keys, wallet, water bottles, shoes, coat and any other items that you’ll need the next day in one place. If your grandchildren live with you, take the same steps with each grandchild and help them get everything ready and in place the night before. This can be a game-changer!

Establish routines. For grandparents raising grandchildren, establishing a routine and a schedule sets expectations for everyone in the household. Grandchildren will know their next step once they arrive after school or activities. Should they immediately finish homework? Or do they get a couple hours of “downtime” to watch their favorite show, play video games, etc. Do they have chores? When is dinner time and bedtime? Having a routine helps factor everything in, keep everyone on track, and keep stress levels to a minimum.

Did you know? Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) has a Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) that empowers grandparents raising grandchildren by providing resources and support to help with caregiving. OCES provides one-on-one support to grandparents and creates a personalized plan outlining available resources appropriate to their caregiving situation.

Learn more about how OCES’ FCSP helps navigate one of life’s challenging but most rewarding jobs by calling 508-584-1561.