Traditionally, extended families have been common frameworks for the sharing of values. Economic, educational and cultural interdependence was the norm. Older family members shared responsibility for raising children and were in turn able to enjoy the benefits of continued stimulation, enthusiasm and learning from their involvement with other generations. Now many of the household and family activities are often done by people outside the family. Our society is increasingly segregated by age, either through geographic or emotional distances.
Grandparents often live miles away and visits are complicated by travel and time.
Our communities are also missing intergenerational contact. Children spend their days with other children of the same age group. Adults work with others who are for the most part in the same age group. We need to see aging as a life-long process. As educators and advocates for youth, we have the responsibility to equip our children with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that can enhance life across the ages.