The Priceless Grandparent

Believe it or not, in the past two generations, the number of children cared for by grandparents has jumped from 33% to a staggering 82%.

It may seem scarcely credible, but this statistic will not raise the eyebrows of those who have been following the shift in social behaviour. This enormous shift is a result of grandparents literally coming to the rescue of working parents; those Mums and Dads who struggle to meet the costs of childcare, and who fall victim to guilty feelings when leaving their loved little ones in
the hands of childminders. From grandparents, of course, there is unconditional love for the child. And, as formal childcare costs continue to rise, relying on the more elderly members of the family can be a doubly appealing option.

Collectively, as a nation, we make huge savings. In fact, childcare provided by Grandmas and Grandpas saves the UK economy an estimated £6.8 billion a year! Research by the Skipton Building Society found that 64% of families rely on grandparents to look after the children when the parents are at work, and that without this support nearly half (49%) of working parents would be forced
to live on a tighter budget, resulting in fewer holidays and days out. Yet although many grandparents relish the time spent with their grandchildren, they may not leap at the prospect of being responsible for the everyday care. Interestingly, research shows us that 39% of grandparents would like to have a life free from too many family duties. Therefore it is so important for grandparents to be honest and express what is within their capability. It can be exhausting, even if it is fun, to look after small children.

The recognition of the role of grandparents and their contribution to society is becoming more apparent. And this extends well beyond the realms of childcare savings. What they have to o er is what children often thrive on – time and attention.

As many parents get swept away with the hectic pace of modern day life, the older generation are perceived as patient and relaxed. Children who benefit from a strong bond with their elders not only benefit emotionally and mentally but also gain a better sense of identity. They are often reminded of good, old-fashioned morals and values – the sorts of things that should be passed down.

Grandparents very often make strong role models and mentors, plus they are superb historians – telling stories of days gone by, teaching the importance of heritage and passing on family traditions. Children are often fascinated to hear what life was like before mainstream TV and computer consoles ever existed.

Yet, these stories can easily fade as time trickles by, so the elder family members should be encouraged to write down facts, thus preserving memories for future generations. This could be supported with memorabilia, family photos, service medals, trophies and even grandma’s wedding dress! Another great way to map family history is to delve into grandpa’s memory banks and ask him to create a family tree. This all helps to give a child a stronger sense of identity.

However, family learning works both ways. Children are able to teach their grandparents about new technologies and how to use different forms of communication, therefore increasing the quality, range and extent of contact. Modern day grannies and granddads are clueing up on mobile phones and can use text messaging as a quick way to send a short note. And many keep in touch via email and web cam.

The rewards of maintaining a strong relationship between all generations cannot be over-emphasised, and children will thrive in a family environment that has depth, and is nurturing. An integral part of this tapestry is the grandparent, whose love, care and support is simply priceless.

Did you know?
The UK has approximately 13 million grandparents.
One in every three people over the age of 50 is a grandparent.
Grandparents have, on average, 4.4 grandchildren – fewer than in previous years.
One in five children under 16 years old is looked after in the daytime by grandparents.
Children in two parent families where both parents work are the most likely to receive daytime care from a grandparent.
More than a third of grandparents spend the equivalent of three days a week caring for their grandchildren.

More Information
Grandparents Plus: A national charity, promoting the vital role of
grandparents and the extended family in children’s lives, particularly
where parents are no longer able to care for their children.
www.grandparentsplus.org.uk
Age Concern: Promotes the well-being of all older people and aims
to help make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
www.ageconcern.org.uk

Grandparents are superb historians, teaching the importance of heritage and passing on family traditions.