Why do stepgrandparents feel disloyal to their grandchildren?
The issue isn't often the grandmother who is hesitant, but rather the grandchild who is hesitant. Children who have loving ties with other grandparents may feel betrayed if their stepgrandparent status is granted. It may be beneficial for all parties to consider this connection in a somewhat different light. The stepgrandchild is not being disloyal to his or her biological family; he or she is merely respecting another set of parents who have been important in their lives. In some states, there are laws that protect children from being taken away from their natural families. If a stepgrandchild refuses to see a stepgrandparent, it can cause problems for the relationship between those two individuals or even damage the legal rights that person might have as an heir. In other words, children need to understand that they can always choose whom they want to share their life with. They cannot be forced to do so against their will, and nor should they be if it causes them emotional harm. If you're a parent or caregiver and are wondering how to handle this situation, remember that you cannot control your stepgrandchildren or their feelings. All you can do is provide them with a safe environment in which to grow up.