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For years Ruth Westheimer, known to millions as Dr. Ruth, has been counseling Americans on how to foster and maintain our most intimate relationships. Now she turns her attention to the role of the grandparent in this comprehensive guide that will help men and women of all ages and backgrounds develop a more rewarding bond with their children's children. In the next decade, more people than ever before will find themselves in the role of grandparent. And in this age of non-traditional families, day-care challenges, and decreasing sexual stereotypes, this role has never been more critical. Employing the characteristic blend of expertise, sound advice, and encouragement that has made her one of today's most trusted dispensers of practical wisdom, Dr. Westheimer shows grandparents how to take advantage of their unique position to help enrich their own lives as well as the lives of their grandchildren's--and not feel overwhelmed in the process. Covering a host of general topics, including how to establish a relationship, managing visits, suggestions for new and unusual activities, and giving wisely, Dr. Westheimer also addresses the increasingly common situations of divorce, non-traditional and multi-cultural families, and what happens when the grandparent becomes the parent. She also pays special tribute to grandfathers, a largely neglected but increasingly important figure in every child's life. As Dr. Westheimer points out, being a grandparent involves not just one, but a series of relationships--with your grandchildren, children, spouse, and in-laws--each with its own complexities. Here she speaks to grandparents of all ages and situations, offering sympathetic advice for those uncomfortable with their new role, as well as for those who welcome every opportunity for involvement in their grandchildren's lives. Written with the assistance of Dr. Steven Kaplan, Grandparenthood is the first guide to grandparenting that offers a parent's perspective as well--an important consideration in achieving a balanced and harmonious relationship between generations. Finally, Dr. Westheimer includes a lengthy resource section listing books, organizations, and websites that offer further information on any number of topics. The perfect gift for a first-time grandparent, as well as for the experienced pro who is looking for a useful reference guide, Grandparenthood will make readers feel more relaxed and secure in this crucial role that offers a chance to rediscover and continue the endless joys of parenting. Includes advice on: * Understanding and accepting the generational differences between your parenting style and that of your children * Seizing the day: making use of opportunities to be a role model, preserve your ethnic heritage, share your own tried-and-true techniques, and improve your relationships with your own children *Celebrating holidays with the entire family, including in-laws * Maintaining long-distance relationships * How to handle visits to your home * Gift-giving ideas, including advice on monetary gifts * Grandparenting a special needs child * Unplanned parenthood: what to do when the child becomes your responsibility