Ask Dr. Joannie: Questions
Grandchild’s Sleep Issues
Question: My grandchild has sleep issues compounded by her disability and the birth of a new brother. What can I suggest to help the parents? Response: At one point in …

Contacting Grandchildren When the Parents Won’t Talk to Us
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. …

Parents’ Differing Faith Causing Confusion for Grandkids
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 …

Pending Divorce and Impact on Grandchildren
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 …

Watching Church Online with Family
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 …

Deciding Which Family to Stay With
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 …

Apology Not Accepted
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 …

Not Allowed to Share About God or Jesus
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 …

Dealing With an Estranged Grandchild
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, …

Christian Apps for Toddlers and Preschoolers
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 …

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Joannie DeBrito, PH.D., LCSW, LMFT, draws from over 30 years of experience as a family life educator, social worker, and licensed mental health professional to help Christian grandparents navigate tricky family dynamics.
If you’re facing something and don’t know how to respond, Dr. Joannie can help!