Read about one reader’s contentious relationship with her daughter-in-law, and Dr. Gramma Karen’s advice for fostering better relationships and keeping the grandchildren in mind.
Category: Grandparents
Welcome grandparents and parents! We know how important grandparent relationships are, so here you’ll find articles, videos and events on activities grandparents can do with their grandchildren, ways to positively foster these relationships, better communication and appreciation between parents and grandparents (and vice versa!) and more!
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Sister Questions a Reconciliation with Her Brother
Sibling relationships can change drastically over time. Check out this reader’s struggle with her sibling, and Dr. Gramma Karen’s expert advice on the future.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: What NOT to Say to Your Grandchildren!
This is an unabridged version of a column I wrote for GRAND Magazine. Summertime, for many families, means more time together for grandparents and grandchildren. To help grandparents increase the chances that these special times with their grandchildren are comfortable and happy for everyone, I compiled a list of communication showstoppers – that is, things […]
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: The Effects of 2020 on Relationships
2020 has been the year of evaluating relationships, new and old. Dr. Gramma Karen gives some inspiration for the year ahead with readers’ comments on how their relationships changed in 2020.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Granddaughter Is a Habitual Liar
I am contacting you because I have been asked for advice and I am at a loss. My friend Helene is the grandmother of Debby, age 13. Helene describes her granddaughter as obese, a trashy dresser, and a habitual liar. She lies about what she eats, claims she has a boyfriend who doesn’t really exist, […]
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: My Grandson Is Repeating Misinformation
Misinformation is popular these days, and it can cause strife among family members. Here is Dr. Gramma Karen’s advice for turning misinformation into a teaching moment for young people.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Explaining “How Could You Vote That Way?”
With the results of the recent presidential election finalized, many find themselves baffled as to how one candidate could receive so many votes. Dr. Gramma Karen has some insight into these voting decisions with what she calls the “Yeah…but…” phenomenon.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Grandparents Question Participation Trophies
Our grandchildren (grade-school age) have started playing sports. We are wondering about the phenomena of giving every child a trophy, no matter the outcome of his/her season. To us, it seems like an idea that doesn’t help children deal with defeat, the value of practice and trying again, hard work and teamwork – in other […]