ABSTRACT
This chapter provides insight into the experiences of grandparents who have a grandchild with intellectual and development disability (IDD). This insight explores the demographic factors that have resulted in the growing numbers of grandparents in this situation and the impact that having a child with IDD can have on family relationships across generations. The chapter describes the roles grandparents adopt with their grandchildren and the emotional responses they may have at the time of diagnosis. As there has been limited research attention given to the impact of having a grandchild with IDD, the chapter also makes an important contribution to the knowledge of professionals. An important contribution is made to the knowledge of professionals who seek to ensure that the family has the best support available by providing recommendations for consideration. With multiple generations, professionals have a resource that they can draw on when seeking to support families, especially those who have children with IDD.
