Grandparenting these days presents many new opportunities. But it also requires some approaches that were unheard of twenty years ago. The advent of technology and the experiences that youngsters have today create a whole new environment.

There are as many different roles for grandparents as there are different family configurations and needs. Some grandparenting requires a full-time commitment. For others, grandparenting is a weekend together, an afternoon play date, a summer vacation, a chat on the phone, or an email exchange every now and then.

HopeSparks and Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources are sponsoring “Grandparenting Today,” a special workshop that focuses on what’s old and what’s new for grandparents today. The presenter will be Rosalyn Alber, coordinator of the Relatives Raising Children program at HopeSparks, a family services not-for-profit organization in Tacoma.

The workshop will be held twice on September 16:
• 12:10 p.m. to 12:50 p.m.
Pierce County Annex Main Meeting Room
2401 S 35th Street in Tacoma

• 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community
1301 North Highlands Parkway in Tacoma

“Children need all kinds of support in their early lives,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources. “Grandparents can play a crucial role in these young lives. But the interests and activities that captivate children these days make grandparenting a unique challenge.”

“Grandparenting Today” will offer a wide range of ideas that grandparents – young and old – can use to better cement their relationships with grandchildren. 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.