Children today face many extraordinary challenges and opportunities. That’s even more true for grandparents.Kids face so many issues in their lives and they often bring those challenges to home and family.
“Conversations on Grandparenting” is an informal discussion about how grandparents can provide the support and guidance that children need today. In many cases this can be done in collaboration with their parents. But in other cases, when parents are absent, grandparents become the sole source of assistance and encouragement.
The workshop will be repeated two times:
- June 10 (12:10 to 12:50 p.m.)
Pierce County Annex Main Meeting Room2401 S. 35th St. in Tacoma
- June 20 (12:10 to 12:50 p.m.)
County-City Building, Rainier Conference Room 930 Tacoma Ave. S., 7th floor in Tacoma
“Of all the influences children have in their lives,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, Manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources, “none are more important than family. Having a listening ear, a trusting adult and good guidance in their lives is critical. Older adults especially are able to enter into the lives of their grandchildren in order to make connections. It’s something that every adult can learn to do.”
An estimated 7 to 10 percent of children nationally live in a household headed by a grandparent. Sometimes by choice, other times by necessity, this has caused a tremendous change in the role of grandparents caring for the youngest children.
“Conversations on Grandparenting” will offer a wide range of ideas that grandparents – young and old – can use to better cement their relationships with grandchildren. The presenter is Rosalyn Alber, coordinator of the Relatives Raising Children program at HopeSparks. Participants will also learn about community resources that can help them as well as the child’s parents in preparing for a future that will be filled with opportunities and challenges.
The workshop is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required. For more information call the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at (253) 798-4600.
