Grandparent Support

Practical Ways to Help

• •Learn about the condition — read the Just Diagnosed guide alongside the parents.
• •Offer specific help: "I'm coming Tuesday from 2–6 to watch the kids so you can rest" is better than "Let me know if you need anything."
• •Learn the medical routines — medications, feeding, seizure protocols, transfer techniques. Become a safe backup caregiver.
• •Attend a therapy session or doctor's appointment to learn what therapists are working on.
• •Babysit the siblings. They need grandparent time that isn't overshadowed by medical appointments.

Emotional Guidance

• •For birth diagnoses, say "congratulations" first. Always.
• •Don't say "I'm sorry" — say "I'm here."
• •Don't say "it could be worse" or "God's plan" — say "this is hard and I love you."
• •Follow the parents' lead on language, therapy choices, and medical decisions — even when there's disagreement.
• •Don't search online and send articles at 3am — the parents are already overwhelmed with information.
• •Ask how the PARENTS are doing — not just about the grandchild.

Financial Contributions

• •Contribute to the RDSP — grandparents can contribute to a grandchild's RDSP, and the government matches up to $3,500/year.
• •Help fund equipment or therapy costs not covered by provincial programs.
• •Pay for respite — even informally. Hiring a babysitter counts.
• •Contribute to a Henson Trust for long-term financial security.

Resources