Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Heartfelt Guide for Navigating This Unexpected Journey

If you’re a grandparent raising your grandchildren, you’re not without support. You will experience many mixed emotions during this time. Pride, love, worry, exhaustion — sometimes all at once.

Grandparents sitting with granchildren on the couch.

Whether you stepped in during a crisis or slowly transitioned into the role, this new chapter can feel overwhelming.

In this guide you’ll discover practical tips, heartfelt understanding, and links to resources that can support you further. Think of this as the roadmap you didn’t know you needed — because we see you, and we’re here to help.

The Rise of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Today, over 2.5 million grandparents in the U.S. are the primary caregivers for their grandchildren. That’s a staggering number — and every story is different.

Some grandparents step in after a loss, addiction, incarceration, or financial hardship. Others do so gradually, when a child’s parent isn’t able to fully provide care.

No matter how you got here, one truth remains: You’re doing something extraordinary. It’s okay to feel tired. It’s okay to feel unsure. You are doing what love demands — and that’s nothing short of heroic.

Estimated % of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren by Country

Country Estimated % of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
South Africa 5.8%
India 4.5%
Egypt 3.2%
United States 2.5%
Brazil 2.0%
United Kingdom 1.9%
Canada 1.4%
Australia 1.3%
Germany 1.0%
Netherlands 0.9%

💡 Note: These are general estimates drawn from a mix of global reports and census summaries. Actual percentages can vary by region, definition of custodial care, and year.

Learn Why Statistics Vary?

Legal Tips Every Grandparent Needs

When you're raising grandchildren, it’s pretty important that you understand your legal rights. Without the right documentation, everyday things like enrolling your grandchild in school or making medical decisions can become complicated.

Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Seek Legal Custody or Guardianship

This allows you to:

  • Make medical decisions
  • Enroll your grandchild in school
  • Qualify for benefits on their behalf
Granddad sleeping with granddaughter on his knee.

2. Explore Kinship Care Programs

These programs exist in every state and offer resources, legal support, and sometimes financial aid to caregivers like you.

👉 Visit: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Kinship Care

3. Talk to a Family Law Attorney

Some nonprofits or state programs offer free or low-cost legal aid for grandparents raising grandchildren. Check with your local Legal Aid office or the Grandfamilies.org Resource Library.

Financial Assistance Programs You Should Know About

Raising kids is expensive. And chances are, you didn’t budget for a second round of child-rearing. Thankfully, there are financial support options you may qualify for.

✅ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

This federal program can help with:

  • Monthly cash assistance
  • Childcare costs
  • Food and housing needs

👉 Wherever you live, you can apply through your local Department of Human Services.

✅ Social Security Benefits

If your grandchild’s parent is deceased or disabled, they may qualify for dependent or survivor benefits through Social Security.

👉 Learn more: SSA.gov – Benefits for Children

👩‍👧 Raising Teens as a Grandparent? Here’s How

🔄 Generational Gaps Are Real

It’s okay if your values clash a bit and it will happen. Just be open and offer non-judgmental communication that will build trust them over time.

💻 Stay Tech-Savvy

This is a tough one, you will likely not know as much as them about the digital world, since that is where they spend a lot of their time. By having a basic knowledge of apps, social media, and texting you can bridge the connection gap.

❤️ Set Clear Boundaries With Compassion

Teens need structure, but they also need space. Your love, consistency, and patience matter more than anything.

“I was 67 when my teenage grandson moved in,” shared Brenda from Ontario. “We had yelling matches over video games and chores at first. But now? We have movie nights and even bake together. I just had to meet him where he was.”

Emotional Wellness: Don’t Forget About You

Many grandparents raising grandchildren forget to take care of themselves. But your emotional health matters just as much as theirs.

✅ Find a Support Group

Talking with others who “get it” can ease loneliness and burnout. Try searching your city or visit:
👉 AARP Grandfamilies Support Locator

✅ Therapy Is Not a Luxury

Many caregivers struggle with anxiety, grief, and fatigue. Seeking therapy or counseling can help you to process your journey — and be a better caregiver.

✅ Create a Little “You” Time

Even 15 minutes with a book, a walk, or a quiet coffee can refuel your spirit. You're not being selfish — you're recharging.

❓ Questions You May Be Asking (And the Honest Answers)

Q: Can I enroll my grandchild in school without legal custody?

A: In many states & provinces, yes — but having legal guardianship is the safest long-term solution.

Grandmother with grandchildren.

Q: Am I eligible for child-related tax benefits?

A: Possibly! If your grandchild lives with you more than half the year, you may claim them as a dependent. Consult a tax advisor or check out the IRS Child-Related Benefits Page.

Q: What happens if I become unable to care for my grandchild?

A: It’s wise to create a long-term care plan, possibly with another trusted family member or guardian in mind. Finally talk with a lawyer, do things the legal way, you want your grandkids to remain in the family.

🔗 Helpful Resources at Your Fingertips

Here are trustworthy starting points to get real help — fast:

  • AARP Grandparenting Help Center: https://www.aarp.org/relationships/grandparenting/