Toolbox - Step into the Role of Parent

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a parent the second time around? You are not alone. These tools might help to make things seem a bit more manageable.

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.

Advocating for your Grandchild at School

Every grandparent wants their grandchild to succeed in school. Here are some tips to help you be your grandchild’s best advocate.

Building Resilience

Resilience can help you find the skills to recover from hardships and come out stronger. Here are some tips for reaching your goals.

Childcare and Good Body Mechanics

Childcare is hard work and can take a toll on your body. Learn some ways to practice good body mechanics to avoid fatigue and injuries.

Coping with Stress

Stress can make it hard to carry out the things you need to do each day. Here are some ideas to help you cope with stress.

Creating a Healthy Sleep Routine

We all need good sleep to be healthy. Learn how to create a healthy sleep schedule to improve your health.

Dealing with Grief

Starting a new family can be hard. Here are some tips to help you through the grieving process.

Energy Conservation

Managing the many responsibilities you have can be hard. Learn about the 4 P’s of energy conservation to increase endurance.

Getting Your Home Ready for your Grandchild

Getting your home ready for your grandchild takes time and preparation. Here are some checklists for you.

Understanding Trauma

Learn about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and how to understand your grandchild’s experiences and identify ways to help them.

Occupational therapy and raising your grandchild

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?

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