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 […]
Tag: grandchildren
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: Young Granddaughter Dresses Sexy
I am bothered by the way my 12-year-old granddaughter, Barbara, and her friends dress. They wear skimpy, low-cut tight tops, often exposing their cleavage and tummy area, with equally skimpy, tight shorts. I asked my daughter-in-law what she thought of Barbara’s style of dress, and she said, “What are you going to do? This is […]
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Grandmother Is Miserable Caring for Grandsons during Covid-19
There are so many stressors in life right now, and sometimes family can be one of them. Here are some things to think about when dealing with a difficult familial situation.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: We Worry about Our Daughter and Granddaughter
Dear Dr. Gramma Karen,
Our daughter Joan married Donald ten years ago. We all knew there was something off about him; he is very controlling and very insecure. Before they got married, my husband, who is a police officer, let her know how much we love her, and talked to her about our concerns about her marrying him. She went ahead and married him.
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: My Step-Grandchildren Lack Discipline
I am a step-grandma. My concern is about my twin 5-year-old grandsons, who are at times delightful, at other times holy terrors (times two!). I’ve had a conversation with their mother, who tells me she and her husband use time-outs and then taking away toys for punishment. However, these children hit, do reckless things (like […]
A Grandmother Is Hesitant to Voice Concerns about Granddaughters’ Dietary Habits
I have a question requesting clarification on your column, “Aunt Has Issues with Her Niece”. This situation is real for me in regards to my daughter-in-law, Megan, and her two daughters, Laura (age 10) and Amanda (age 4). They recently moved near us and I now spend more time with them. In your advice you […]
Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Plan Win-Win Visits With the Grandchildren
With the coming of summer, it’s not too soon for grandparents to extend invitations and to plan for visits with the grandchildren. As the real-life examples below illustrate, some creativity and flexibility in the arrangements may make for visits that are more relaxing and fun for everyone.