The Grand Balance: A Working Grandmas Podcast

Episode 57: Keeping Grandkids Safe Around Water: Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Tips for Babies, Toddlers and Teens From an Expert

Water safety is about much more than swim lessons. In this episode, Angela and Sharon are joined by aquatic supervisor and water safety expert Carolyn Lechner-Uribe to share practical tips every parent and grandparent should know before spending time around pools, lakes, and beaches. They discuss the best age to start swim lessons, why a designated "Water Watcher" can save lives, the truth about floaties versus Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and the essential layers of protection every backyard pool should have. Carolyn also shares expert advice on teaching children to respect water without fearing it, common mistakes families make at pool parties, safety strategies for teens, and how grandparents can help keep grandchildren safe all summer long. Whether you have a backyard pool or simply enjoy family vacations near the water, this episode is packed with life-saving advice every family should hear.

Episode 56: Answering Grandmas Inbox Pt. 3

In this edition of Ask the Grandmas, Angela and Sharon dive into a variety of real-life grandparenting topics submitted by listeners. They discuss affordable summer activities for grandchildren, navigating family dynamics with other grandparents, approaching sensitive safety concerns, balancing spouse time with grandchildren time, and finding the right role as a grandparent when it comes to discipline. As always, the conversation is filled with personal stories, practical insights, and honest discussion about the joys and challenges of being a modern working grandparent. Plus, they share another Fabulous Find that's perfect for grandparents with little ones on the go.   BOGG Bag [https://boggbag.com/products/original-bogg-bag-dockside-stripe] BOGG Bag Tabletop Accessory [https://boggbag.com/products/top-o-the-bogg-to-ya-i-lilac-you-a-lot]

Episode 55: Grandma‘s and Parent’s Guide to Building Strong Connections with Teen Grandchildren

In this episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon take a closer look at the often-complicated relationship between grandparents and teenagers. Inspired by the book Feeding the Mouth That Bites You by Dr. Kenneth Wilgus, they explore the concept of Planned Emancipation—a parenting approach that encourages gradually giving teens more independence as they prepare for adulthood. Along the way, Angela and Sharon share their own experiences raising teenagers, including the challenges of letting go, allowing natural consequences, resisting the urge to rescue, and navigating the inevitable power struggles that come with the teen years. They also discuss what grandparents can do to stay connected as grandchildren become more independent, including becoming trusted listeners, supporting parents, avoiding “secret keeping,” and creating meaningful one-on-one relationships. Filled with practical insights, personal stories, and a few laughs about lessons learned the hard way, this episode offers encouragement for parents and grandparents who want to build strong, healthy relationships with the teens in their lives while helping them grow into confident, capable adults.

Episode 54: The Grandparent Advantage: How Active Grandparents Help Grandchildren Thrive and Strengthen the Family

Can grandparents truly shape a child's future? In this episode, Angela and Sharon explore research on the powerful impact grandparents have on their grandchildren's emotional development, language skills, confidence, and decision-making. They discuss the unique role grandparents play in providing unconditional love, creating a sense of security, and strengthening family connections across generations. The conversation also examines the surprising benefits grandparents receive in return, including improved mental health, increased physical activity, stronger family bonds, and a greater sense of purpose. Plus, they discuss why research suggests that "moderate involvement" may be the sweet spot—and how full-time caregiving can sometimes lead to burnout. Whether you're a grandparent, parent, or simply interested in the value of intergenerational relationships, this episode offers practical insights into why these connections matter so much for both young and old.

Episode 53: Grandma's Toddler Tantrum Toolkit: Tips for Meltdowns and Handling Big Feelings

In this episode of The Grand Balance, working grandmas Angela and Sharon discuss toddler tantrums, emotional regulation, attention-seeking behavior, and expert-backed strategies for handling meltdowns calmly. Plus, real-life stories about balancing family, caregiving, travel, health, and the chaos of modern grandparenting. Episode Notes:  Sharon's Fabulous Find: Roe Powder Sunscreen [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGT9W5WX?ref=cm_sw_r_cso_sms_apin_dp_ZPD79YRFN2GXPBCMNV4G&ref_=cm_sw_r_cso_sms_apin_dp_ZPD79YRFN2GXPBCMNV4G&social_share=cm_sw_r_cso_sms_apin_dp_ZPD79YRFN2GXPBCMNV4G&rsd=eYv8RKszKIOYJxNeluwG%2F6tKPRE0YwbT3BEoleE9JRNFKGo4Bwl7AhnFIN6nDvnn2Z6YcLENtFPO7jVn2Jd5csI1v6VjwPd434F5dKi1tACKERNuqNqqMg%3D%3D&edk=AQIDAHi1lw%2FM8UbbSMD9ScOOFEmBMHMthHeEhqDaQYPJUAX3jQETzZr4l6EpvNMkd8EfBmumAAAAfjB8BgkqhkiG9w0BBwagbzBtAgEAMGgGCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMPSIqLO3SEKFGFmz9AgEQgDu7I8ChmiPbT3Lb0jXQ8MP6QGVFB06zHGuOvysV384N65KgEPtf0gFshJnOLeFrEauRsyjif2PPXhWk8Q%3D%3D] Impulse: Brain Training App [https://impulsebrain.com/]