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The Importance of Extended Family Support

Years ago, my daughter was the very first great grandchild born to our family. Everyone wanted their share of time with her. She was invited along to family events from my aunts, uncles, cousins, everyone wanted to spend time with her. They taught her things too, like how to ride a bike and tie her shoes.

It was a young mother and fathers dream, helping hands offered almost daily.

It was 9 years before the next child was born, and then another and another, until there were now 5 great grandchildren clamoring for attention.

The invitations soon started to dwindle.

By the time my sons were born, 10 years after my daughter, instead of offering invitations to go the zoo, I got references of good baby sitters. In the first 9 years of motherhood, I had not had to pay one dime out in babysitter fees.

This was 29 years ago. My kids are all grown now. I see a big difference in the way my daughter relates to family and how the boys relate. Could it be that her upbringing was more family involved or is it that boys are just different? I am convinced it is because of the lack of family participation for my boys.

Even though I have an empty nest now, my parenting responsibilities have not ceased. I feel that it is more important than ever to participate in raising the extended part of my family known as grandkids. It doesn't stop there, though, it includes participation in my nieces and nephews youth as well.

I was very fortunate, I was a stay at home Mom. Not that we were wealthy and could afford it, my husband and I agreed before we got married that raising a family the best way was for one of us to be at home.

My daughter would like to be a stay at home Mom too but these times they are a changin' and today's economy doesn't allow the privilege for one stay at home parent in most cases.

I made a decision to quit my job and be a stay at home Grandma. I feel that children are allowed only one chance at childhood and it is our responsibility as adults, to make sure we do our best to make that happen. Not just for our own children and grandchildren but for any child you encounter along the way of this road called life.

Sure, I would rather be at work right now making a nice income. Instead I sit here, still in my pajamas and hope that I can finish this article before my grandson wakes up for his nap. Knowing that I am creating a good childhood memory for him is priceless. No salary in the world could match the good feeling I get watching my grandchildren grow up healthy and emotionally secure.

Learn more about this author, Trisha Orlando.
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