Grandparents with a formal style take an interest in the child, give treats and indulgences and occasionally help the parents, but see their role in more defined terms. These grandparents do not offer advice and leave parenting to the parents. From the formal grandparents, the grandchild will derive a certain satisfaction, knowing that nurturing and some contact are forthcoming. Grandparents who are distant may feel remote from the grandchild and acknowledge little effect of the grandchild on their own life. Although these grandparents maintain a benevolent attitude, give gifts an go through certain motions, there is little feeling or interaction.
Grandparents help children to know, trust and understand other people.
If the child's contact with adults is limited just to parents, he or she is likely to have a narrower view of the world and other people. In turn, grandchildren may find grandparents good listeners, helpers and close friends. Grandparents know the world isn't going to end because a child doesn't do everything perfectly. Children can learn that grandma's and grandpa's arms can be just a comforting as mother's and father's. They discover their grandparents' house to be a safe and happy home away from home.