Last year an estimated 3.9 million kids were rescued by grandparents who decided to take them into custody. Many of those kids come from homes influence by violence, drugs and other problems. Grandparents with limited resources are often forced to take the kids are relinquish them to state child care services. It s often a difficult, heart wrenching decision. I know what the system can do to children, sometimes they re just as bad as abusive, neglective parents, says Joan, who raises her grandson.
Financial strain is one of the most common problems.
Joan was retired when her grandson came to live with her. There are also increased physical and psychological demands. Experts say grandparents often forget one simple thing to take care of themselves. Experts advise that exercising, eating right and having time away from the child will insure that they have a lot more to give when they re with them. Judy Purdue from Project Health Grandparents says, Put yourself first.