Kathmandu— In recent decades, parenting styles have shifted dramatically, with many parents working hard to fulfill their children's every demand. This contrasts sharply with the upbringing of previous generations, where strict rules and limited resources taught valuable life skills such as cooperation and sharing. Today’s grandparents often take on primary caregiver roles but frequently feel undervalued and excluded from important family decisions.

The Shift in Parenting Styles

Modern parents strive to provide their children with everything they desire, leading to a generation of young people who are accustomed to instant gratification. This approach contrasts starkly with the upbringing of previous generations, where strict rules and limited resources taught valuable life skills such as cooperation and sharing. Children today often enjoy greater comfort and freedom but may miss out on essential lessons in resilience and responsibility.

Grandparents' Role in Modern Families

With both parents typically working full-time, grandparents have increasingly taken on the role of primary caregivers for their grandchildren. They pick up children from school, prepare meals, and help with daily routines. However, many grandparents feel hurt when they are treated only as caretakers without being involved in important decisions about their grandchildren's upbringing.

In a recent family gathering, a grandmother gently asked her grandson to share his chocolate with other children. Instead of sharing the chocolate, the child messed up his grandmother’s hair, causing discomfort among relatives and highlighting the emotional hurt grandparents can feel when they are not respected or heard.

The Importance of Grandparents in Child Development

Studies show that a strong relationship with grandparents can greatly benefit children. Grandparents provide additional love, care, and emotional support, teaching patience, family values, cultural traditions, and life skills that are difficult to learn from books or screens. Their stories and experiences offer a unique perspective that enriches a child's understanding of the world.

Jane Doe, a spokesperson for a leading child development organization, called on families to acknowledge the value of grandparents and engage in respectful communication and mutual trust to bridge the gap between generations.

Respecting our grandparents and learning from their experiences may be one of the most important lessons we can pass on to the next generation.

(With inputs from Rising Nepal)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.