Alexandria’s Kristen Amundson Releases New Book Exploring the Power of Grandparents
Drawing on decades in education and public service, Amundson offers research, stories, and practical ideas on how grandparents can help children thrive.
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Former Virginia state delegate Kristen J. Amundson has released a new book exploring the powerful and evolving role grandparents play in children’s lives.
Her latest title, The Grandparent Effect: Helping Children Thrive Through Love, Support, and Connection, was released today and focuses on how grandparents can positively influence their grandchildren’s emotional development, education, and sense of identity.
Amundson, who served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2000 to 2010, representing Northern Virginia, has long worked in education policy and child advocacy. Her newest book draws on that experience while also examining the changing dynamics of modern families.
Exploring a Changing Role
Announcing the book’s release, Amundson reflected on how grandparenting has evolved while still remaining one of the most meaningful relationships in a child’s life.
“I am thrilled to announce that my third book, The Grandparent Effect: Helping Children Thrive Through Love, Support, and Connection, is out today (March 5). It discusses the changing role of grandparents as well as the constant benefits they provide for their grandchildren,” she said.
The book combines research on child development with stories from families and examples of programs that actively involve grandparents in children’s education and growth.
Practical Ideas for Meaningful Time Together
Amundson also highlights everyday opportunities for grandparents to connect with grandchildren in ways that support learning and confidence.
“From preschool through high school, the book highlights programs that involve grandparents, explains the most current research in child development and education, shares stories of active and involved grandparents, and provides resources for further enrichment,” she said.
These experiences can range from simple activities like reading together or exploring nature to sharing family traditions, stories, and cultural heritage.
Finding the Right Balance
A key theme of the book is the importance of respecting the role of parents while still offering support and guidance as grandparents.
“Grandparents can support their own children in their parenting journey,” Amundson noted, adding one of the book’s memorable reminders: “Parents have the right to be wrong.”
The book also includes guidance for grandparents who have stepped into the role of primary caregiver, offering resources and ideas for navigating those responsibilities.
About the Author
In addition to her time in public office, Amundson has built a long career in education and advocacy. She is a former teacher, school board chair, state legislator, and CEO of a national education organization. Over the years, she has spent decades answering questions from parents and grandparents about how they can help children succeed in school.
Amundson is widely recognized for her work on student achievement and family engagement in education, helping families become stronger advocates for both their own children and for students across the school system.
She is also the author of 81 Questions for Parents: Helping Your Kids Succeed in School and Unfinished Learning: Parents, Schools, and the COVID School Closures, and lives in Virginia.
Amundson says, “It’s available wherever books are sold. Or if you go to the Bloomsbury website (https://lnkd.in/ek4nqKcE), you can buy it at a discount!”
