The role grandparents play in the lives of young children is essential. Even as adults, we remember curling up in a grandparent’s lap or being just a little spoiled with covert treats and a knowing wink. Grandparents — and their hugs, smiles, and laughs — hold a special place in a child’s heart.
Decades of research underscore the importance of grandparents in shaping who children become — well beyond babysitting and birthday gifts.
Building positive relationships
One-on-one quality time with Grandma or Grandpa affords children special attention, gives parents a break, and teaches children about positive role models. This emotional and social support is deeply beneficial to children’s development.
Grandparents who live far away from their grandchildren can maintain a close relationship through frequent visits, phone calls, letters, video chats via online services, and email.
⇒Read next: Grandparents: The Secret to Helping Kids Succeed in School by Katie Pierce — practical ways grandparents can support grandkids today.
The bond between children and their grandparents benefits everyone
Studies have shown that grandparents who have a close bond with their grandchildren are less likely to experience anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Children with loving, engaged grandparents are also less likely to struggle with these conditions.
Over time spent together, both grandparents and grandchildren report feeling happier and more satisfied with life. A majority of adults credit their grandparents with playing a pivotal role in shaping their beliefs, values, morals, and attitudes.
We wouldn’t be here without them
Let’s be real: if it weren’t for our grandparents, we wouldn’t be here. They raised our parents and made time to spoil us when we were little. It is only fair that we return the favor now.
Common questions about grandparents and grandchildren
When is Grandparents Day?
Grandparents Day is observed in the United States on the first Sunday after Labor Day, which falls in early to mid-September each year. It was officially proclaimed a national holiday in 1978 to recognize the contributions grandparents make to families and communities.
What is the importance of grandparents in a child’s life?
Grandparents bring patience, time, and perspective that busy parents often can’t offer in the same way. Studies show children with engaged grandparents have stronger emotional health, better self-esteem, and a clearer sense of family identity. Grandparents also benefit — close bonds with grandchildren are linked to lower rates of loneliness and depression in older adults.
How can long-distance grandparents stay close to grandchildren?
Long-distance grandparents can build a strong bond through regular video calls, handwritten letters, shared books or movies discussed by phone, and small care packages sent on birthdays or holidays. Consistency matters more than distance — a weekly call at the same time creates a ritual children look forward to.
The truth is simple: grandparents matter. They bring with them knowledge, compassion, and love that help shape who children become and ease the weight that parents carry, and quietly hold families together across generations.
Originally published September 2020. Updated May 2026.
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