Grandparents

A parent may have difficulty discussing sensitive areas of life (i.e. sex, drugs, violence, AIDS) with their own child. It seems that the parent is sometimes the last to realize that their "baby" is growing up. Also, complications in parent/child relationships within the home can block effective communication channels. The grandparent is often close enough for a trusting relationship- but not so close that these complications interfere.

Heritage is also a great part of self-esteem. Knowing positive parts of the family history can be a major factor in a child discovering their unique identity. Stories from grandparents are always dear to a grandchild. These stories can be a meaningful part of prevention.

lt is imperative that grandparents understand the importance of praising their family members for "who they are" not just "what they do." Performance-based acceptance is a negative factor in prevention as is generic praise.

These lessons can easily be learned by a concerned grandparent. The grandparent comes to the close of their life with a. sense of what is truly important. This can be transmitted to their extended family through letter, tape or verbal communication. However the grandparent does it, the important thing is that the child discover the extended family traditions and values.