The Child to Grandparent Connection

Dr. Kornhaber says, "Parents do well with loving, supportive grandparents. They are an emotional safety net. It's good for everyone." This is especially true when parents are divorced. Dr. Strom comments, "There is a tendency among many grandparents to be judgmental when there is a divorce." However, Dr. Kornhaber stresses the importance of grandparents' presence during a divorce as long as they can behave impartially. "Kids don't divorce their grandparents. Maintaining a close relationship helps kids to see that even though their parents may be coming apart at the seams, the grandparents have it all together." There is a tendency to isolate the grandparent on the non-custodial side, but Dr. Kornhaber recommends keeping the relationship intact.