Grandparents are truly special and cherished, with various names like Grandpa and Grandma, Pop-Pop and Nana, Granddaddy and Gran, Abuelito and Abuela, and in some parts of the South, Papaw and Mamaw. These titles are not just badges of honor, but also endearment for the role they play in the lives of their grandchildren.
While these are stereotypes to some extent, they highlight a fundamental truth. Grandparents effortlessly become the apple of their grandchildren’s eyes, especially when they live far away, and their visits are eagerly awaited. The joyous moment when they arrive, and the kids rush out of the house into their loving embrace, followed by games, treats, and stories, creates an incomparable dopamine rush of being a celebrity, even if it’s only within the eyes of these little ones.
However, the grandkids’ playtime with their grandparents is just the tip of the iceberg. Often overlooked by the broader public is the silent yet tremendous role that grandparents play in our country’s culture and economy.
While the data available may be slightly outdated, it is evident that a significant number of grandparents step in to babysit and help make it easier for the parents to work. Grandparents also provide assistance during situations such as the birth of a new baby, family illnesses, or when a parent’s job requires extended periods away from home.
Grandparents who take on the role of a temporary nanny, whether for a day, a week, or even longer, do so not only to support their children in earning a living but also to treasure precious moments with their grandchildren. While each grandparent has their unique reasons for filling this gap, it is a consensus that they often end their day feeling exhausted. Handling a pair of preschoolers is undoubtedly easier at the age of 30 than at 65.
Despite the personal motives behind their actions, the benefits of grandparents providing childcare services extend beyond the personal sphere and have a positive impact on society and the economy. Additionally, statistics indicate that by assuming this responsibility, grandparents save the American taxpayer approximately $6 billion annually by preventing their grandchildren from entering the foster care system.
Whether grandparents are aware of it or not, they naturally become teachers to their grandkids, imparting knowledge and wisdom through both words and actions. Some grandparents directly engage in teaching, as exemplified by the grandmother who homeschools her grandchildren while her daughter works. Others teach through simple interactions, taking the kids on walks or sharing stories, just like our own grandparents did for us. The guidance they provide on hobbies and life is invaluable.
Renowned author Robert Ruark once wrote, “The Old Man ain’t much to look at on the hoof… but the thing I like best about the Old Man is that he’s willing to talk about what he knows, and he never talks down to a kid, which is me, who wants to know things.” This portrayal highlights the essence of a true teacher, which many grandparents embody.
In today’s world, more than ever, it is evident that grandkids and grandparents need each other. Their bond transcends generations and brings immeasurable joy and wisdom to both parties.