Grandchildren

Grandchildren are the offspring of a person’s children. They form the younger generation in a family and may be a source of continuity and social support across generations. The nature of grandparent–grandchild relationships varies widely across cultures and individual families.

Grandparents commonly provide emotional support, share family history, and assist with child care, education, and activities. In some families, grandparents take on primary caregiving responsibilities, particularly when parents are unavailable due to work, health, or other reasons. In many societies, the role is more ceremonial, with grandparents visiting on holidays and telling stories.

Global demographic changes, including aging populations and extended lifespans, have affected grandparent involvement. In many countries, multi-generational households are common or increasing; in others, families rely on formal child care while grandparents live separately. Economic and geographic factors influence how frequently grandparents see their grandchildren and how deeply they participate in daily routines.

Research indicates that active grandparent involvement can have positive effects on children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, and on grandparents’ sense of purpose. However, caregiving can also be stressful and financially burdensome, particularly when health issues or distance reduce access to grandchildren or create conflict. Intergenerational exchange often contributes to family resilience but can require negotiation and boundary-setting.

Legal and cultural aspects shape the experience of having grandchildren. Some jurisdictions address visitation rights or guardianship when parents are unable to care for children. Cultural norms influence expectations about grandparent roles, naming practices, and the distribution of family duties, varying widely around the world.