As the year draws to a close, the conversation centers around utilizing the New Year as an opportunity to cultivate strength and adaptability in young ones. This episode not only delves into personal anecdotes but also embraces biblical principles, weaving them into the foundational skills needed for coping with life's challenges.

Throughout the discussion, Ben and Ian emphasize the importance of grandparents being actively involved in offering emotional support and creating a space of understanding for their grandkids. Ian suggests practical strategies and tips for instilling resilience, such as engaging in meaningful conversation, encouraging adaptability, and setting intentional moments for bonding. The duo also highlights the unique role that grandparents play in bridging generational gaps, ultimately guiding their grandchildren through both the old and new realities of life.

Key Takeaways:

• New Year as a Catalyst: The New Year can be a perfect moment for grandparents to set goals around building resilience in grandchildren.

• Building Resilience: Grandparents have a unique opportunity to impart strength and adaptability, drawing from personal experiences and biblical teachings.

• Intergenerational Support: Being available and adaptable allows grandparents to provide a crucial support system amid life's trials.

• Faith and Resilience: Integrating biblical wisdom offers an additional layer of guidance, encouraging grandchildren to find strength in faith.

• Practical Involvement: Simple acts of sharing personal resilience stories and setting up activities can significantly impact grandchildren’s development.

Notable Quotes:

• "A new year is always full of possibilities. You start with a clean slate... what do you want to do?"

• "Resilience is about the ability to bounce back... life isn't easy. It's hard raising kids. It's hard seeing grandkids go through things."

• "Words are powerful… speak life into their souls to build them up."

• "Change is part of life... as you’re getting older, you know change is happening to you both physically and mentally and spiritually."

• "Persevere as a grandparent… speak life and resilience, that could be the thing that stands the test of time

Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources.

Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

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