DePelchin Children's Center :: Adopted Grandchildren

Program & Services:

Adoption Services

Post-Adoption Services

Professional Resources

Hurricane Trauma Resources

Internship/Practicum Program

Today's Family (Q&A)

Your donation impacts the lives of over 26,000 children and families. Donate Now...

Adopted Grandchildren

Q: My 25-year-old daughter is dating a man who has custody of two children from a pervious marriage. Their relationship seems to be getting serious and it has me wondering. What is my role going to be with these children?

A: What would you like your role to be with these children? If your daughter marries their father, she becomes their stepmother, who will care and love them as her own. Ask your daughter what she is expecting of you in the relationship. Hopefully, you will be asked to act like their extended family. Children can always benefit by being cherished and loved. The more love, the better for them. If this is not the case, don't overstep what is needed and requested of you. If you have a problem with what she is asking, tell her the truth. It is better to let her know how you feel now. Let her know you wish to have more or less involvement with the stepchildren. Remember, though, if they have another child together, that child is your grandchild. Will you treat your daughter's stepchildren any differently than her child? To do so will only cause a divided family, and it may be yours.

Back to Today's Family