Grandparents Matter

Grandparents: A Powerful Influence

Grandparents have always played a major role in children’s lives.  More and more, though, grandparents are becoming caretakers of their grandchildren, taking on the role of raising youngsters for a second time.

In South Dakota’s 2000 census more than 4,500 grandparents reported being responsible for grandchildren and living in the same home - 537 in the city of Sioux Falls alone.  And children who live with their grandparents tend to stay a long time.  38% of the grandparents who become the youngster’s primary caregiver have them for five or more years, compared to 15% for 6 months or less.

While the number of grandparents as caregivers grow, the pressures and challenges are also increasing. Older people, who looked forward to relaxing and enjoying visits from their grown children and their grandchildren, now are struggling to cope with issues ranging from underage drinking and drug use, to peer pressure and high-tech teens. 

Whether you are raising your grandchildren in your home, providing continuing support and care to your adult child’s family, or working to stay in touch with your grandchildren, you don’t have to struggle alone. Please visit the other topics in this section, and browse through additional areas on this site for more information on specific issues.