Even if grandparents live a long distance away, the relationships between the generations is valuable. One researcher discovered that throughout the lifespan, a child's relationship with grandparents has an influence on family roles and how that child views being a grandparent as he or she ages. Grandparents can provide many contributions to a child's life. One contribution is teaching a child to interact with people of all ages. Grandparents can also act as a role model, setting a good example of how to interact with others and adapting a positive approach to life.
Many grandparents provide childcare for their grandchildren.
Often, grandparents have more time to spend with a child, or the financial resources to participate in special activities, such as trips to zoo, sporting events and museums. Besides offering love and acceptance, grandparents can provide a sense of stability in a child's life. In our society, there is much change and upheaval. In these times, grandparents can provide a sense of continuity and a secure source of understanding. When a close relationship is formed between grandparents and grandchildren, the relationship is often developed for life.