Grandparents Matter

As a family psychologist, I was struck by the fact there is often a key factor missing in society’s conversations about what makes individuals and families, and especially children, thrive: our deep need for intergenerational love and support—even in a determinedly self-reliant culture and digital age. Grandparents matter. Jerry Witkovsky gets this, and as a…

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Interview with Author Jerry Witkovsky: Preparing for when Jimmy Says “Don’t Tell Mom, but…”

Until recently, Author and Grandparenting expert Jerry Witkovsky wouldn’t even entertain the question about what to say if a grandchild asked you to keep a secret. “I wouldn’t want to jeopardize the trust with my adult child.” But after questions at recent speaking events, from grandparents earnestly wanting to always be there for their grandkids,…

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Grandparents and the Teenage Years: Ties with Teens Strengthen Families and Communities

As my own grandchildren got older, it became clear that maintaining strong connection was increasingly challenging as their schedules grew more demanding and their academics, extracurriculars, and friendships predominated. Something else was clear too: that the high school years are a critical period during which close bonds with caring family members are more important than…

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Author Jerry Witkovsky Visits the Rochester Jewish Book Festival

Visit to the Rochester Jewish Book Festival by Jerry Witkovsky, author of The Grandest Love: Inspiring the Grandparent-Grandchild Connection,” on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014: “Jerry’s book is a ‘love letter’ to grandparents and grandchildren, and those who heard him speak in Rochester said his thoughtful and inspiring discussion was one of the highlights of this…

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