Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — By age 65, AARP reports 96 percent of Americans are grandparents. Grandparents play an important role in children’s lives. Studies show kids who have close relationships with grandparents have fewer emotional and behavioral problems and better social skills. Now, researchers have identified seven distinct grandparenting styles and chances are, you might recognize yourself in more than one of them.
Grandma, Pappy, Granny, Pops, Nana, Gigi, Mimi, Poppy and Grandpa, whatever you call them, what memories come to mind when you think of them?
Today’s kids are making those same kinds of memories with grandparents who are more present than ever. A recent survey found 64 percent of grandparents see their grandchildren at least once or twice a month.
But that involvement doesn’t look the same for everyone. Experts say there are seven different grandparent styles. Number one is the formal grandparent. This is someone who’s loving but maintains boundaries. Letting the parent do the parenting. Second: the buddy grandparent. In a nutshell, it’s a friend who doesn’t judge.
Number three is the fun seeker. They consider it their job to show their grandkids how to enjoy life. Number four: the distant grandparent. This is someone who isn’t very involved in their grandchildren’s lives.
Five is the caregiver. They take on the traditional role of the parent. Then there’s the family historian who tells the stories and remembers everything! Number seven is the indulgent enabler. They just can’t say no.
While there’s no single “right” way to grandparent, what matters most is simply being there.
Research shows hanging around grandkids is also good for the grandparents. In one study 72 percent of people with grandchildren said they hardly felt isolated compared to 62 percent of those without grandchildren.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://www.morethangrand.com/blog/why-grandparents-are-important
