Top 5 Reasons Why Grandparents Are So Important.

As parents, we've all heard how important positive parent-child relationships are for children's social and emotional development. There are numerous research studies and supporting statistics that highlight the numerous advantages of strong parent-child bonds. What isn't always acknowledged is the positive impact that a close relationship between a grandparent and a grandchild can have on the happiness and well-being of the entire family. Simply put, having grandparents nearby is beneficial to everyone. A healthy relationship between a grandchild and his or her grandparent benefits both parties, and here's why:

 1. Grandparents have a significant impact on the lives of their grandchildren. 

According to studies, up to 9 out of 10 adult grandchildren believe their grandparents influenced their beliefs and values. The relationship that a child has with a grandparent shapes his or her perception of what constitutes a healthy, normal relationship. Children can learn what a true, positive relationship looks like through regular contact, emotional intimacy, and unwavering support.

 2. Grandparents can develop and reduce household stress. 

According to a 2014 study conducted at Boston College, "an emotionally close relationship between grandparent and grandchild is associated with fewer symptoms of depression for both generations." For children, having grandparents nearby means having the ideal companions with whom to play and have fun. When it comes to using creativity and imagination to discover the wonders of life, grandparents are some of the best partners. As a result, most grandparents genuinely enjoy their role. According to the American Grandparents Association, 72% of grandparents consider being a grandparent to be the most important and fulfilling aspect of their lives.

  3. Grandparents have a wealth of knowledge. 

Grandparents are a valuable resource because they have so many life stories and experiences to share. Children will frequently listen to grandparents even if they are not listening to their parents or other adults. Grandparents also connect a child to his or her cultural heritage and family history. Through their relationship with their grandparents, children learn more about who they are and where they come from.

 4. Grandparents provide a sense of security.

Having an extra layer of support, especially during difficult times, can make a significant difference in a child's life. Close grandparent-grandchild relationships during the adolescent years have been linked to fewer behavioral and emotional problems, as well as fewer social difficulties with peers. Grandparents provide an extra ear when children need someone to talk to because it is sometimes easier for children to open up and share their difficulties and problems with their grandparents.

 5. Grandparents provide a low-cost childcare option. 

With both parents working outside the home in many families, grandparents often play an important role in raising today's youth. According to the 2010 Census, approximately 2.7 million grandparents provide for a grandchild's basic needs, with even more caring for their grandchildren regularly. If they are willing and able, having a grandparent act as an occasional babysitter or a paid childcare provider provides many parents with a great sense of security in knowing that their children are in capable and caring hands.