Key Takeaways:

• Bridging the Gap: Grandparents can overcome physical distance by using technology and thoughtful planning to connect with grandchildren.

• Plan and Budget: Allocate resources appropriately to facilitate visits and celebrate significant milestones in grandchildren's lives.

• Creativity in Communication: Regular FaceTime calls, handwritten letters, and gifts can help maintain and strengthen the grandparent-grandchildren bond.

• Intentional Presence: Being physically present for important events or holidays whenever possible can leave a lasting impression.

• Adapt and Engage: Identify and adapt to grandchildren’s interests to foster more meaningful connections, both now and for the future.

Notable Quotes:

• "Look, no matter how far away they are from you, there is something you can do."

• "Prayer can cover the geography."

• "If you want to be in their lives, then look for the opportunities."

• "Every time you invest in the now, you're investing in the later on."

Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources.

Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways:

• Grandparents are an undervalued resource in both religious organizations and broader society, possessing valuable insights and life experiences.

• Many grandparents today are playing crucial roles in the lives of their grandchildren, often stepping in as caregivers due to family disruptions.

• There is a cultural tendency to marginalize the elderly, prompting a need for societal shift to honor and include the older generation in meaningful ways.

• Grandparental love and intervention can profoundly influence their grandchildren's lives, offering a sense of continuity and stability.

• Encouraging stories of grandparental sacrifice and commitment are vital for inspiring support and recognition of their pivotal role in family structures.

Notable Quotes:

1. I think I still believe we have value as a generation that can provide insight and wisdom in how to actually continue your journey into the future.

2. There's great value in sharing who you are and what you've done and sharing about how you've lived this life and how others have influenced you.

3. People need lots of blood. You know, go and be a blood donor... go and start to rethink how you think about who you are and step out of that box you might be in.

4. The true value of grandparents today is showing grandkids that there is another way to grow and to enjoy the life that you have.

5. We underestimate the value of grandparents in this century. And I think there's far more we can give to others that help them follow in our footsteps.

Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources.

Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As society evolves, the importance of understanding the roles of "Grandma" and "Grandpa" in nurturing grandchildren remains a cornerstone of effective grandparenting. Ian Barnett (National Grandparent Movement) explores how these roles manifest today, taking a look at gender-specific influences and the natural inclinations which tend to guide interactions.

Key Takeaways:

• The roles of grandmothers and grandfathers are often complementary, with each bringing unique strengths to their relationship with grandchildren.

• Grandfathers often engage in physical activities and are viewed as fun-loving figures, while grandmothers are traditionally seen as nurturing and attentive.

• Understanding and adapting to grandchildren's individual needs and inclinations is crucial for effective grandparenting.

• Society's changes has changed the dynamics of grandparenting roles, yet the core essence remains unchanged.

• Mutual efforts in embracing these roles as grandparents lead to healthier and more meaningful relationships with grandchildren.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Get to know what works – or doesn't work."

2. "I have a certain value to bring to my grandkids, as Ian, as a male."

3. "Engage in their world if you want to engage with them."

Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources.

Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.