A grandmother’s presence has restorative effects on children, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Turku in Finland. The study looked at data from a 2007 survey of 1,566 English and Welsh youth aged 11 to 16, excluding those who lived with grandparents or did not have at least one living grandparent. Adverse childhood experiences, which are traumatic events or difficult circumstances that occur between the ages of 0 to 17, can have long-lasting negative effects on a person’s mental and physical health. However, the study found that children with maternal grandmothers offering support, such as child care or financial assistance, were less likely to show negative effects from adverse childhood experiences.
The buffering effect of a grandmother’s support can help protect children from the impact of trauma, according to the study. Maternal grandmothers, in particular, were found to have this protective impact, in line with an evolutionary theory known as the grandmother hypothesis. However, the study also acknowledged that the buffering effect is not powerful enough to completely erase the impact of trauma. It is important for children facing hardship to have a strong support system, which can help counter the harm caused by adverse childhood experiences. Being consistent, loving, and available, grandmothers can play an essential role in providing stability and support for children.
To support a child facing hardship, it is important to provide consistent routines, a stable environment, clear expectations, and to model healthy ways to manage stress. Additionally, being open, honest, nonjudgmental, and warm can help children feel supported and nurtured. Sharing family culture and traditions can also increase a child’s sense of belonging, while providing opportunities to connect with other supportive adults can help build a strong support network for a child. Grandparents, with their experience and wisdom, are uniquely positioned to pass along culture and traditions, in addition to offering support and guidance to children.
Ultimately, the study highlights the importance of a grandmother’s love and support in helping children navigate life’s challenges. By offering stability, care, and guidance, grandmothers can have a long-lasting impact on a child’s development and well-being. While adverse childhood experiences can have negative effects, having a strong support system, including the presence of a caring and involved grandmother, can help mitigate these effects and promote resilience in children. The love and support provided by a grandmother can be uniquely additive to a child’s life, helping them feel nurtured and valued.
