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Dear Savvy Auntie,

My 18-year-old niece just found out she is pregnant. She wants me to be happy for her and her boyfriend and I just can't. He already has a daughter from a previous relationship and he hardly even has anything to do with this daughter. His grandparents have more rights to her than he does because he is so unstable. My niece herself is not mature enough for this. Yes she is a legal adult but acts more like a young teenager.

Am I a bad Auntie because I can't be happy for them?

Concerned Auntie

Dear Concerned Auntie,

I understand you are not happy about your niece's pregnancy, but you can still be supportive. Yes, it is a challenge for you. Just think about what a challenge it is for her, in so many ways and on so many levels. She needs your guidance in navigating all the changes coming her way... school; friends; appearance; relationship; daily life; and more. She is probably too young to look at her future and is just focused on the present.

I suggest you buy her a copy of What to Expect When You are Expecting. It will be very informative and help her be realistic.
 
Do try to stay close to her as she really needs you now and in the future.

I wish you the best,

Natalie Robinson Garfield
TheSenseConnection.wordpress.com
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