Ask Dr. Joannie Questions

Question: Our grandchildren live far away, and their parents do not talk to us. How can we still acknowledge our grandchildren? Response: This is difficult, but not a hopeless situation. It requires some intentional communication on your part. If the children are under 18 years of age, I suggest that you start by notifying the […]

Question: I’ve noticed that my 8-year-old granchild is confused because one of his parents believes in Christianity while the other doesn’t. What are some ways I can help? Response: It would be best for you to talk with the parents. Let them know what your grandson has said that indicates to you that he is

Question: My daughter and son-in-law have announced a pending divorce that was quite unexpected to the rest of us. I’m very concerned about the impact this will have on my grandchildren as well. What do you recommend? Response: I am sorry to hear that you are going through this unexpected event and I understand your

Question: Our adult children do not want to attend church as a family. They will watch it with us online at either their home or ours. Are we setting a bad example of not going to church but doing this? Response: I think that is a great way to expose them to the Word of

Question: I have an upcoming trip to visit our children. Both have asked me to stay when I visit. How do I decide which home to stay in? Response: Have you thought about dividing the time you are in town and staying at each house half the time? It seems as if this would be

Question: My daughter has estranged herself from me and will not allow me to see her children as well. Prior to this (it’s been 18 months) I had a close living relationship with her small children and a nice relationship with my daughter and son-in-law. The estrangement occurred when I did not apologize to her

Question: I am not permitted to speak to my grandchildren (ages 8 and 5) about God or Jesus. My son (who is divorced) supervises my visits when I go to see them. I pray for them and love them and do art with them and send boxes to them with clothes and little gifts. My

Question: We wanted to ask you a question regarding our 17-year-old granddaughter. Since her parent’s divorce a few years ago, we’ve seen her experience anger, disobedience, running away, suicidal symptoms, and cutting off communication. Do we continue reaching out to her? Should we let her have space? We miss her terribly and this whole thing

Question: I’m looking for Christian apps for toddlers/ preschoolers. We’ve found Parent Cue, Minno, and Yippie. Do you know of others that have games, interactive teaching, or just wholesome (free preferably) apps for preschoolers? Response: The apps you have mentioned are fine, but I generally don’t recommend apps for young children. It is more advantageous

Question: Do you know of any Christian ministries for alienated grandparents? We know several Christian couples who have been totally cut off from seeing or connecting in any way with their grandkids and others cut off except for sending birthday and Christmas gifts. Any recommendations? Response: Thank you for your concern for your friends who