The time are changing. With the economic downturn, forcing both mothers and fathers into the workplace, and with the rising cost of childcare, many grandparents are stepping up to fill in the gaps. Grandmothers and grandfathers are playing a pivotal role in child-rearing according to a recent 60 Minutes segment by Lesley Stahl, a self-described "granny nanny" herself. With busy single parents and parents in the workforce, most can't afford a nanny or an expensive day care. That's where grandmothers like Tish step in. But when Tish began caring for her grandchildren, she began to realize something important about her own parenting.
As a mother, it seemed that time was always the enemy. A single mother and working woman, Tish never had enough time to spend with her daughter. As a grandparent, things are entirely different. Without the pressures of running a household and keeping a job, Tish is free to spend hours with her grandchildren — not only that, she can spoil them. Most granny nannies notice this as well. The parents are responsible for the ins and outs of shaping the children and paying the bills, but all Grandma and Grandpa have to do is play and dote on the kids. Most granny nannies realize that they missed out on the more sentimental moments with their own children.
Ultimately, what families realize is that by including their extended relatives in the mix, not only do they benefit from being less strained, but children, parents, and grandparents alike get to strengthen their bond as a family unit.
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