An Involved Grandparent: The Impact of Grandparental Involvement on Child Development
Grandparents are a key part of the family and can have a significant impact on the development of children. Numerous studies have shown that grandparental involvement can be beneficial to the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children (Belsky, 2013; Gaskins, 2013; Schoppe-Sullivan & Bell, 2011). This article will explore the impact of grandparental involvement on child development and discuss the benefits of involving grandparents in the lives of children.
Grandparental involvement can take many forms. Involvement can range from providing emotional and financial support to providing physical care for grandchildren. Grandparents may also offer guidance and advice, as well as support with educational and extracurricular activities (Gaskins, 2013). Studies have found that the amount of involvement of a grandparent has a positive effect on the development of the grandchild (Schoppe-Sullivan & Bell, 2011). Grandparents who are involved in a grandchild’s life can provide a sense of belonging and security, as well as a source of wisdom and guidance (Gaskins, 2013).
Studies have found that children with involved grandparents experience social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. In terms of social benefits, children with involved grandparents are more likely to have higher self-esteem, better communication skills, and better behavior (Belsky, 2013). Emotionally, children with involved grandparents are more likely to have better coping skills and fewer behavioral problems (Gaskins, 2013). Cognitively, children with involved grandparents are more likely to perform better in school and have higher educational attainment (Schoppe-Sullivan & Bell, 2011).
In addition to these benefits, grandparental involvement can also help to build stronger family relationships. Grandparents can offer emotional support and guidance to parents and can help bridge the generations in a family (Gaskins, 2013). Grandparents can also serve as a source of continuity and stability, providing a sense of security and comfort to children (Belsky, 2013).
Overall, grandparental involvement can have a positive impact on the development of children. Grandparents can provide emotional and financial support, as well as guidance and advice. They can also help to build stronger family relationships and provide a sense of continuity and stability. Involved grandparents can have a significant impact on the social, emotional, and cognitive development of their grandchildren.
References
Belsky, J. (2013). Grandparental involvement and children’s development. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 379-403.
Gaskins, S. (2013). Grandparenting and the well-being of families: Theoretical perspectives and recent findings. Marriage & Family Review, 49(6), 479–497.
Schoppe-Sullivan, S. J., & Bell, M. A. (2011). Grandparent involvement and children’s well-being. Oxford Handbook of Grandparenthood, Oxford University Press.