You can play a very important role in creating safety for your grandchildren at a time when their parents are probably going through too much trauma of their own. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Not sure how to help? 🤔

Here are 5 top tips and talking points for grandparenting through a divorce like a superstar!

5 Tips for a Grandparent Whose Son or Daughter is Getting Divorced:

1. Most important: Stay Neutral and Supportive 💐

Avoid taking sides and instead, offer a listening ear without judgment.

Conversation Prompt: “I’m here for you. How are you feeling about everything that’s happening?”

2. Absolutely critical: Create a Safe Space 🌳

Ensure that your home becomes a safe haven for the child, free from the stress and tension that may exist in the parents’ households.

Do not go back and talk about what they shared with you.

That can cause more damage.

Conversation Prompt: “Our home is always a safe place for you. You can share anything with us.”

3. 100% important: Acknowledge Their Feelings 🥀

Help the child express their emotions.

Acknowledge their feelings of fear, confusion, or sadness without downplaying them.

Don’t tell them to stop being sad and act cheerful for your sake.

Conversation Prompt: “It’s okay to feel upset or confused. Can you tell me more about what’s going on in your heart?”

4. Fundamental truth: Assure Unconditional Love 🌻

Reassure the child that your love for them is unwavering.

Emphasize that the divorce is between the parents and doesn’t change the grandparent to grandchild relationship.

Conversation Prompt: “No matter what happens, our love for you is constant. You mean the world to us.”

5. Isn’t that what it is all about? Leave a Legacy of Love 🌺

Share family stories, traditions, and values.

Create positive memories that will serve as a foundation for the child’s sense of identity and belonging.

Conversation Prompt: “Let’s spend some time reminiscing about our family history. What stories would you like to hear?”

Bonus Prompt: 🍒

Share wisdom and life lessons.

Create a special journal or recording where you can pass down insights, advice, and unique experiences.

“I’d love to share some important lessons I’ve learned in life. What would you like to know about our family’s journey?” 💝

We rarely speak of the role of the senior members in the family when the parents are going through a divorce but by following these tips and prompts, grandparents can contribute significantly to the well being and resilience of a child experiencing their parents’ divorce.

If you are or know of a highly successful professional woman going through a divorce or breakup or just stuck in an emotional warzone, held back from her highest potential due to family conflict, then contact me at [email protected] for a FREE discovery call to understand how my RelationSHIFT framework can transform your life! You can find all my contact information below.