Parents need to remember that after them grandparents are probably most concerned about their children s well being. Studies of child development have shown that children benefit from exposure to an extended family comprising grandparents, aunts and uncles. While their parents are their safety net, grandparents, aunts and uncles, offer children different options and help inculcate a sense of family and values in children. Grandparents and other members of an extended family can be an important means of imparting religious beliefs and ethnic values. New parents should appreciate the value of tradition.
Grandparents can teach family customs and expectations to the new generation.
The present trend of globalization and urbanization represents a strong possibility of our losing sight of our roots and our identity. Therefore, it is important not to belittle the knowledge of our elders. While some of their beliefs may seem passe, we should not dismiss their suggestions and thoughts lightly for they have the weight of experience behind them. Culture and values are often passed on more easily by grandparents to children. This is because children are more amenable to listening to their grandparents as their interactions are not marred by the daily battles of disciplining that is the parents responsibility.