When divorce interrupts the relationships Connecticut grandparents have with their grandchildren, it can be harmful. Staying in touch with their grandparents can be highly beneficial for grandchildren.
In many instances, grandparents have a legal right to visitation with their grandchildren, according to the Foundation for Grandparenting. This arrangement should be written out in the divorce agreement. Considering that the grandchildren may end up in the custody of an ex-daughter or son-in-law, it is generally a good idea for grandparents to maintain open lines of communication with and be supportive of both parents.
Grandparents should endeavor to contact their grandchildren frequently by making phone calls, writing letters or sending emails. If possible, grandparents should also appear at family gatherings to spend time with grandchildren and help make the event memorable. When grandchildren are allowed to spend time with their grandparents, it is crucial that they feel the time spent together is valuable.
In some cases, it may be in the best interests of the grandchildren for grandparents to take custody. Forbes reports that this is often the case when parents face long-term military deployment or are struggling with drug addictions. Indeed, approximately 2.7 million grandparents around the United States are now acting as primary caregivers for grandchildren.
Among these grandparents, a significant number live below the poverty line. Providing for grandchildren may entail returning to work, spending retirement funds, mortgaging the house or seeking other forms of financial support. Caregiving grandparents who are struggling to make ends meet may find relief via programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.