Mary and her husband Tom are in their early 60s. Their daughter, Suzanne, recently divorced. Because Suzanne had dropped out of high school (against her parents’ wishes) to marry, her lack of education made finding a good-paying job impossible. She asked her parents to help her return to school and to care for her two children, aged 2 and 3. Mary and Tom have been caring for Suzanne’s children for over 2 years now, with no end in sight because Suzanne has decided to go on to college when she finishes her high school education. Mary and Tom have had to postpone their travel plans. Although they planned financially for their retirement, the added economic burden of helping Suzanne and caring for her two children has meant a much tighter budget than they had anticipated. “Of course I love the children, but I’ve been deprived of my golden years and I resent it,” says Mary.

1. Do you think that Mary and Tom are obligated to help their adult daughter raise her two children?

2. Have you or any of your friends basically been raised by your/their grandparents? What do you think about it?

3. Would you assume responsibility for your grandchildren, if necessary? Why or why not?