Signal Winter 2019 Newsletter

www.alliancecom.net 9 A s a grandparent, you have the option of stepping back and letting the parents do all the work in raising your grandkids. You also have the option to be more proactive and involved. Check out these sites for people looking for ways to optimize their role as grandparents. Grand Magazine ( grandmagazine.com) Another senior-focused site, Grand Magazine includes many resources for relating to your grandkids. Explore topics such as how much screen time kids should be allowed when visiting with Grandma and Grandpa and how grandparents can help their college- bound grandkids. Verywell ( verywellfamily.com/ for-grandparents-4162029) The Grandparents section of Verywell offers advice to grandparents on topics ranging from handling a grouchy grand- kid to tips for a successful sleepover to leaving a “legacy letter” to your grandchild. Other topics include fun activities to enjoy together and how to avoid family conflicts. Ask Granny (askgranny.com) This senior-focused site features an extensive collection of resources for grandparents. Check out the section of child-friendly sites or the one for grand- child gift suggestions. Find articles on topics like caring for infant grandkids, tips for traveling with grandchildren, and entertainment for children. Grandkids Matter (grandkidsmatter.org ) This extensive site features articles on many aspects of grandparenting such as reading with your grandkids, exploring the world together, talking with young grandchildren, sharing your past, giving parents a break, and even addressing challenging issues. Considerable (considerable.com/family-home/ children-grandkids) This section of the Considerable site is all about the grandparent-grandchild rela- tionship. Learn about things like fun foods to make with your grandchild, the health benefits of babysitting your grandchild, how to celebrate Grandparents Day, and common grandparenting surprises. Leave a Legacy of Active Grandparenting Raising Grandkids? You’re Not Alone! According to the American Associa- tion of Retired Persons (AARP), an estimated 3 million older adults are raising their grandchildren. 1 If you’re one of them, you may be facing the challenges of having this unexpected responsibility. Fortunately, many online resources are here to help. AARP GrandFamilies Guide (aarp.org/relationships/friends- family/info-08-2011/grandfami- lies-guide-getting-started.html) Guidance on support, legal issues, finances, housing, health, and much more. Grandfamilies.Org (grandfamilies.org ) Dozens of resources to help, no matter where in the process you are currently. ChildCare.Gov State Resources (childcare.gov/state-resources-home) Choose your state to find child care, financial assistance, and other valu- able services. ChildWelfare Information Gateway (childwelfare.gov/topics/ permanency/guardianship/) Resources about guardianship including state and local examples. Grandparents Raising Children Support Group (dailystrength.org/group/ grandparents-raising-children) Advice and support from others in similar situations. Find Coverage for Your Family (insurekidsnow.gov/coverage/ index.html) Learn how to navigate the world of health insurance programs and dental providers. 1 Source: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends- family/info-2018/grandparents-raising-kids.html