The Importance of Grandparents in the Lives of their Grandchildren
Having caring supportive relationships and strong social connections can promote resilience as they navigate these years. Grandparents can play a vital role in many ways:
Be a good listener-sometimes adolescents just want someone who loves them to listen. Being a sounding board, without judgement can be very comforting and useful.
Offer unconditional love and acceptance-this can provide a sense of security and can help them especially during times of uncertainty.
Grandparents can offer a different perspective on life-Growing up in a different era with their life challenges can be important to share with grandchildren. Discussing the challenges and how previous generations showed resilience and learned life lessons, can model how to stay strong in difficult times. Also, sharing mistakes can teach grandchildren how to move forward from them and the lessons learned. Sharing our personal experiences provides encouragement and perspective.
Spend time together in meaningful activities-Quality time is important in any relationship. By doing special things together like cooking, visiting, or attending their activities shows interest in the things they value.
Share family traditions-Learning about traditions, whether it be religious or cultural, help provide a sense of identity and community as well as a link to their family's past. Grandparents help build strong family relationship, often being the glue that binds the family together.
Be a positive role model-by demonstrating positive behaviors, values and attitudes, this can help shape their character development. Also, being a stabilizing relationship in their life can be a safe harbor when their world feels chaotic and unpredictable.
It's best not to undermine their parent's style of parenting-Being supportive of the entire family helps maintain positive connections.
Finally, grandparents benefit greatly from positive relationships with their grandchildren-Having regular time with them, whether it be in person or virtual visits, helps strengthen our relationships and can lift everyone's spirits! Seeing the intergenerational love that evolves with this special bond benefits everyone in the family.