Unexpectedly raising a child can trigger many emotions across a wide spectrum. You may feel deep worry, anger and grief on one end, but also a sense of pride, joy and opportunity on the other. Couple your emotions with the mixed feelings your grandchild may be experiencing, and the transition of your family unit may seem overwhelming. There are both challenges and rewards to parenting a second time around and, with support, you can work to make this transition and the future a positive one for your whole family.

Information here was created by Alice Rogers, a doctoral student in occupational therapy at Pacific University in Oregon. When people hear the word “occupation” they usually think of something related to work or a person’s job. In occupational therapy, the word “occupation” is used to refer to the many activities people do on a daily basis that have meaning to them, and everything people do to occupy their time. This could include work, caring for yourself, caring for your family, leisure, money management, taking care of your home, or maintaining a social life. Think of all the activities that you need to perform and whether or not you are able to engage in them. If you cannot engage, what is it about the activity that makes it difficult for you to engage and can you adapt the situation that will make it easier for you?