Show Notes
In this conversation, David and Sissy explore the important role grandparents play in helping children grow into capable, resilient adults. They discuss how grandparents provide a unique source of wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love while reinforcing the values parents are teaching at home. The episode also highlights the power of family stories, meaningful traditions, and intentional connection in helping kids develop a stronger sense of identity, belonging, and confidence.
Questions David mentions:
When you think about your family growing up, what did your parents do that made you feel most safe, seen, and known?
Grandparents often have influence in ways they don’t even realize. What are some things your parents did—or still do—that shaped the way you parent today?
For the daughters—what are some things your parents did growing up that you now realize were actually building capability in you?
For the grandparents—what has been the biggest surprise about moving from parenting children to parenting adult children… and now grandparenting?
How do you stay supportive without overstepping? Especially when you may parent differently than your adult children do?
What does healthy involvement from grandparents actually look like? What helps adult children feel supported instead of managed?
There’s so much research—including work from Lisa Miller—about how grandparents can deeply shape a child’s spiritual life. How have you seen that play out in your family?
What are some of the most meaningful traditions, rhythms, or small moments that have helped create connection across generations?
For the daughters—what do your parents do now that makes you feel most encouraged as an adult?
For the grandparents—what would you say to grandparents who feel unsure of their role or worry they’ve missed their chance to make an impact?
If each of you could finish this sentence: “One thing every child needs from a grandparent is…” what would you say?
Resources mentioned:
Capable by David Thomas and Sissy Goff
NIH: Effects of grandparents’ involvement on young children’s resilience: mother’s parenting stress and family strength as mediators
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