Fact Sheets

Introduction

Describes how the fact sheets were developed, fact sheet descriptions, and a list of the authors and reviewers.

1. Understanding Children’s Development

Child development from birth to 8 is laid out in a grid that describes physical, cognitive, social, and communication development.

2. The Importance of Close Relationships

Describes different types of relationships and explores the long-lasting benefits of healthy relationships.

3. Relationship Expectations: Now And In The Future

Discusses how children’s relationships are shaped by the relationships children form with their parents. Describes four attachment styles, how the styles affect the child’s emotional state and sense of self worth, and how children arrive at various relationship styles.

4. Disruptions In Close Relationships: How They Affect A Child’s Behavior, Thoughts, and Feelings

Focuses on types of disruptions and describes common behaviors, thoughts, and feelings children experience when they are separated from their parents.

5. The Importance Of Open Communication

Discusses how to help grandchildren communicate, problems in communication, and how behaviors are a way of communicating for children.

6. Understanding Children’s Behaviors

Explains possible reasons for behavior problems and suggests ways to work through them

7. Children’s Contact With Their Parents

Discusses ways to help grandchildren maintain contact with their parents and strategies for good visits; also, discusses ways to help children make a positive transition to the changes in their life.

8. The Cycle Of Family Patterns

Looks at ways of breaking negative patterns and reinforces positive ones. It also looks at depression among grandparent caregivers, how it can affect the grandchild’s well-being and where to turn for support.

9. Additional Resources

Listing of books for grandparents and grandchildren, web resources, and national organizations that can provide helpful and accurate information on raising grandchildren.