Look at the whole picture.

Sometimes things are worth repeating and this is one of them.
In a previous post I wrote about what happens when children make their voices heard. Over recent months there has been some amazing stories of children making their own choices, which is brilliant and I love that part of running the group.
One day you are talking to a distraught grandparent who is going through turmoil and doesn't know how to improve their situation, the next day you are speaking to the same person who is now clearly floating on air.
What is evident in these cases is that when the children start to ask questions and say they want to see their grandparents it is often at the expense of their relationship with their resident parent.
Children discover that the adults in their lives have lied to them, how would you respond if it happened to you?
Of course the overwhelming feelings of having your precious grandchildren back in your life is immeasurable, but we need to take time to consider the whole.
Nobody wants to deny anyone in the children's lives a loving and caring relationship.
I know how children can become very single minded and put pressure on the adults in their lives, but it is so important that they understand that all of their family members love them, and that adults sometimes make the wrong choices for them but we are all willing to listen and to try better.
Never be afraid to admit you made mistakes, not one of us is perfect.
Always be prepared to say sorry.
The ultimate goal is that all family members are part of the children's lives.
If we are unable to respect one another there is a danger of children walking away from a parent.

Jane
www.bristolgrandparentssupportgroup.co.uk