- Lena Bradley, 62, is raising her two young grandchildren despite mobility issues.
- The mom of four has been looking after kids for almost 45 years after getting pregnant at 16.
- She said her methods are consistency and structure. And, as times have changed, limiting screen use.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Lena Bradley, 62, a nursing assistant and student from New York. It has been edited for length and clarity.
The second of my three daughters got pregnant at 18. Family circumstances meant I'd raised my grandson, Kvion, 14, from infancy.
I've been raising his sister, Kylnn, 10, for four years. As their grandma, I didn't hesitate to step in because it was the right thing to do.
After getting pregnant at 16, I've been raising kids for four and a half decades. It's been longer than that because I babysat my younger siblings while my mom worked full-time.
I've always enjoyed having my apartment full of people, but as I've gotten older, it's become more of a challenge. It's noisy all the time and, now I'm in my sixties, I often crave some peace and quiet.
I'm getting older all the time
One of the main difficulties is my stressful job as a part-time nursing assistant in the intensive care unit at a hospital. I'm also in college studying gerontology. I'm always looking to better myself, and once I qualify, I hope to work as a social worker for the elderly.
Still, I'm getting older myself. I have arthritis in my knees. My grandkids like to ride about on bikes and scooters. This time of year, they want to go ice skating at Rockefeller Center or in Central Park.
People often ask me about my methods for raising children. I'm all about consistency and structure. It worked for me when I cared for my family at a young age.
I apply the same techniques with my grandchildren. We all sit down together for scheduled, regular meals. We interact and ask about each other's day.
My reward is seeing my grandkids safe and happy
Still, times have changed since my kids were little. Technology is everywhere. My grandson and youngest daughter, Johnia, 19, who lives with us, aren't allowed to bring their phones to the table. The kids' electronics are switched off by 9 p.m.
I satisfy their needs, but they'll earn some other stuff by helping with chores. Meanwhile, my reward is seeing this new generation safe and happy. They're such a blessing.
Another benefit is knowing I'm unlikely to be lonely in later life. Yes, I'm not getting me time, and I won't be jetting off somewhere by myself. My me time is going to the bathroom and having that bathroom to myself.
But I wouldn't have it any other way.
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