Grandparents Day: Building Stronger Family Connections
While a few Journey Early Learning centres are celebrating Grandparents Day, the importance of family runs through all our centres. Whether it’s through engaging activities with grandparents or other family members, the emphasis at Journey is always on creating meaningful connections that support children’s development. Grandparents, whether biological or chosen, play an essential role in a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive growth..
How Grandparents Support Child Development
Grandparents offer so much more than occasional childcare—they provide emotional stability, pass down wisdom, and offer social learning experiences. Their involvement complements parents’ efforts and creates a supportive network that encourages children to grow confidently.
Emotional Security and Social Connection
Grandparents are often secondary attachment figures for children, providing a sense of comfort and safety. Research from Oxford University shows that regular interaction with grandparents is linked to better emotional and behavioural outcomes for children. They often serve as a source of unconditional love, which builds a child’s self-esteem and sense of belonging.
In today’s fast-paced world, where parents may be stretched thin by work and other responsibilities, the presence of grandparents offers a reliable source of care. Their patience and understanding help children express themselves freely, strengthening emotional bonds within the family.
Sharing Values and Traditions
Grandparents serve as the keepers of family history and cultural traditions. They often pass down stories, family rituals, and values that help children develop a strong sense of identity. At Journey Early Learning, we observe how children’s eyes light up when they hear stories about “the old days” or engage in activities inspired by family traditions, whether with grandparents or other family members.
Research also shows that children who have a good understanding of their family history are better at handling stress and navigating social challenges. This sense of continuity is invaluable, providing children with context, security, and a sense of who they are within the broader family structure.
Latest Research on Grandparent-Child Relationships
Research from Boston College highlights the mutual benefits of grandparent-grandchild relationships. Close ties can improve mental well-being not only for children but also for grandparents, helping reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.
The “cultural capital” of older family members bring is also critical. By sharing stories, practical knowledge, and family traditions, they help children develop social skills, empathy, and a broader perspective on life. This intergenerational learning helps children understand family values and the roles people play in supporting each other.
Expanding the Family Circle
Not every child has biological grandparents in their life, but many families have “chosen” grandparents who play a similar role. These figures can be close family friends, neighbours, or other caring adults who step in to offer the same kind of love and guidance.
At Journey Early Learning, we celebrate the diversity of families and recognise that chosen grandparents are equally significant. Whether it’s Grandparents Day or everyday moments, our focus remains on nurturing all types of family connections, emphasising love, respect, and care across generations.
How We Honour Family at Journey Early Learning
Although only a few centres celebrate this day, the emphasis on family is consistent across all Journey centres. Our events, whether family picnics, storytelling sessions, or shared activities, aim to foster family ties and build stronger relationships between children and their extended family members.
For centres that celebrate Grandparents Day, it’s an opportunity for children to invite their grandparents to participate in fun, meaningful activities like crafts, storytelling, and shared meals. For others, regular family days and gatherings provide the same opportunity to emphasise the importance of family connections in children’s development.
Building Stronger Family Bonds Year-Round
The celebration of family should go beyond just one day. Here are some ideas for strengthening family bonds throughout the year:
- Regular Calls or Visits: Encourage children to connect with grandparents through video calls, phone chats, or in-person visits.
- Shared Hobbies: Grandparents and grandchildren can bond over activities like baking, gardening, or playing board games.
- Storytelling: Grandparents have a wealth of life stories to share, helping children understand their family’s past and feel a part of it.
- Family Outings: Plan outings that include grandparents or other extended family members to create lasting memories.
Celebrating Family in Every Form
At Journey Early Learning, our commitment to family goes beyond Grandparents Day. While some centres celebrate this special occasion, all centres aim to nurture family connections daily. We recognise the unique contributions of grandparents, whether biological or chosen, and celebrate the role they play in a child’s development.
Let’s make family connections a priority all year long—whether through bonding with grandparents, parents, or chosen family members. By fostering these relationships, we create a loving, supportive environment for children to grow and thrive.
