My grandson refuses to see his mother

The point of view of Marcel Rufo, child psychiatrist

Your grandson is calling on you, Noémie, perhaps unconsciously, to help him in the troubled situation he is currently experiencing. This proves that this boy is an extremely sensitive being who has fulfilled his role as eldest in maintaining the family and supporting his younger siblings.

For your part, you can contact your daughter, her mother, to find out what made her decide to end her relationship, an old couple, established over time, given the age of the children. Perhaps you could then call your son-in-law to understand why he impetuously wanted your daughter to leave their home quickly. Once you have collected these elements, invite your grandson to come see you and report to him on your efforts. Tell him what you understand.

You don’t mention his grandfather, Noémie, but, if necessary, he too is to be included. Later, you can encourage your daughter to write to her eldest son to explain her decision. These steps without brutality should help him avoid a break with his mother, which will be damaging to him in the long term. As you see, Noémie, you have a decisive role to play.