February 5, 2025 • 18 mins
Grandparenting in the 2020s
Introduction
This briefing document consolidates information from four sources to provide a comprehensive overview of grandparenting in the 2020s. It covers the evolving role of grandparents, the benefits of grandparent-grandchild relationships, the challenges of distance, and resources available to grandparents and their families.
Source 1: "60 Best Grandparent Blogs and Websites in 2025"
- Overview: This source provides a curated list of 60 grandparent-focused blogs and websites, offering a glimpse into the diversity of online content catering to this demographic. It also serves as a directory of influential voices and resources within the grandparenting community.
- Key Themes & Ideas:
- Diverse Content: The listed blogs cover a wide range of topics, from crafting and recipes to faith-based parenting, long-distance grandparenting, and support for grandparents raising grandchildren. This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of grandparenting in modern times.
- Active Online Community: The presence of numerous blogs with substantial social media followers indicates a large, engaged community of grandparents seeking information, connection, and resources online. For instance, "This Grandma is Fun" has 70.4K Facebook followers, and "Grandparents Link" has 53.7K, demonstrating the popularity of online communities among this group.
- Varied Approaches to Grandparenting: The blogs reflect a wide range of grandparenting styles, from the traditional "Grandma's cookie jar" to more modern and tech-savvy approaches. There is also "Head Rambles," described as the "rambling thoughts of an Irish Grandad."
- Platform for Sharing Experiences: Many blogs serve as personal journals, with grandparents sharing their thoughts, challenges, and joys. For example, "Granny Sue's News and Reviews" is described as the online journal of a West Virginia storyteller.
- Resource for Parents Too: Some blogs, like "Green Grandma," target young parents in addition to grandparents. This highlights the interconnectedness of family relationships and shared resource needs.
- Focus on Specific Niches: Certain blogs, such as "Christian Grandparenting Network Blog" and "The Bristol Grandparents Support Group Blog", focus on specific communities or needs, highlighting that this is not a homogenous demographic.
- Technological Fluency: The source highlights the integration of social media, and mentions the use of email for contact.
- Marketing Tool: The inclusion of contact information and outreach details for the blogs themselves shows how some grandparents are seeing these sites as commercial or outreach opportunities. "Get access to 250k active Bloggers in 1500 niche categories. Get targeted media contact list in your niche at your fingertips so you can focus on running your campaign. Email us the type of bloggers you want to reach out for your marketing campaign at anuj@feedspot.com"
- Key Quotes:
- "Grandma Ideas vision of my site was to create a resource of ideas that grandmothers could turn to, that they could use. Ideas that were easy and inexpensive."
- "Just as grandma's cookie jar should always be full of good things, this blog will be full of good ideas, information, activities and reviews of things to help grandma, and grandpa, mom and dad too."
- "The Go-To Place for all things long distance grandparenting. Follow this feed and get instant access to fun, meaningful and simple ways you can stay connected across the miles."
Source 2:
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey everyone and welcome to a deep dive all about
grandparenting in 2025.
Speaker 2 (00:05):
Yeah, it's definitely a topic that a lot of people
are thinking about and talkingabout these days.
Speaker 1 (00:08):
For sure, and especially timely with National
Grandparents Day coming up onSeptember 13th.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
Absolutely A perfect time to kind of reflect on, you
know, the role that grandparentsplay in our families and in
society.
Speaker 1 (00:20):
Absolutely so.
We're diving into a whole bunchof articles and blog overviews
to unpack all of this.
Speaker 2 (00:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
And one of the first things that jumped out at me was
just this idea that thegrandparent population is
booming.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Oh yeah, it's exploding.
Speaker 1 (00:33):
Yeah, we're going to have a ton of grandparents in
the next.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
You know, five, 10 years 20 percent of Americans by
2030 are going to be 65 orolder.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Yeah, that's a huge number.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Yeah, it's a massive shift and you know we throw
around these statistics like 96percent of people over 65 are
grandparents.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
And you know, most have four or five grandkids.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Right.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
And by 2030, almost all eight year olds will have a
living great grandparent.
Speaker 1 (00:58):
That's pretty amazing to think about, but it makes
you wonder what does thatactually mean, like on a
practical level, for familiesand, you know, for society?
Speaker 2 (01:06):
Well, you know, we often think about grandparents
as the cookie bakers and thestorytellers and the dispensers
of wisdom.
Speaker 1 (01:13):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
But with longer lifespans and changing family
dynamics, you know their role isbecoming much more multifaceted
.
Speaker 1 (01:20):
Yeah, and one of the articles pointed out this idea
of evolving roles, which I thinkis really fascinating, like,
for example, the rise ofgrandfamilies.
Speaker 2 (01:28):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Where grandparents are actually the primary
caregivers for theirgrandchildren.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
It's a huge trend and you know it's not always by
choice.
It's often driven by thingslike you know, substance abuse
or incarceration of the parents.
Speaker 1 (01:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into
unexpectedly.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yeah, about 10 percent of grandparents live
with their grandchildren.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into
unexpectedly.
Yeah, about 10 percent ofgrandparents live with their
grandchildren.
Yeah and 5 percent are theprimary caregivers.
That's incredible.
It is, and you can imagine thechallenges that come with that?
Speaker 1 (01:53):
Yeah, definitely, and we'll get into those challenges
a bit more.
But you know, even beyond thosespecific situations, the
articles also talk about justthe everyday challenges that
grandparents face, like distanceand busy schedules making it
harder to connect.
Speaker 2 (02:06):
Oh yeah, that's a common one.
Over half of grandparents liveover 200 miles from at least one
grandchild.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
Yeah, and everybody's busy these days, juggling work
and their own lives.
Speaker 2 (02:15):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (02:16):
It's tough to make time for those regular visits.
It is, and that's wheretechnology comes in, as both a
solution and a potentialchallenge.
Yeah, I was just thinking aboutthat too, because, on the one
hand, we have all these amazingtools like Zoom and FaceTime
that allow for virtual visitsand you can read bedtime stories
across the miles.
But, as we were saying before,not all grandparents are tech
(02:39):
savvy and some lack access toreliable Internet or devices.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
Exactly, and that creates a digital divide.
Yeah, it does when noteverybody's benefiting equally
from these advancements.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
And even for the grandparents, who are
comfortable with technology.
I wonder if those virtualinteractions can ever truly
replace those in-person moments,you know, those shared
experiences.
Speaker 2 (03:03):
That's a really good point and, you know, one of the
articles that we readhighlighted this organization
called Grand Camp Adventures.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
And they really emphasize that the most
meaningful connections come fromsimple play and shared
experiences.
Ok, not necessarily like youknow extravagant trips or you
know expensive gifts.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
So like baking cookies together, going for a
walk, reading a book aloud.
Speaker 2 (03:27):
Exactly those are the activities that really create
those lasting memories.
Speaker 1 (03:30):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:31):
And that actually ties into another point that
came up a lot, which is theimportance of snail mail.
Speaker 1 (03:35):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
You know it might seem old fashioned in the
digital age A little bit, butthat tangible connection of a
handwritten letter or a specialphoto is something that both
grandparents and grandkidsreally cherish.
Speaker 1 (03:48):
I can see that.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:49):
So it seems like it's all about finding that balance.
Speaker 2 (03:52):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Between the tech-enabled connection and
those in-person moments.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Absolutely Striking.
That balance is key.
Speaker 1 (03:58):
And then there's the bigger question of you know,
what role do grandparents playin society as a whole, and how
is that evolving?
Speaker 2 (04:05):
Right.
Well, we're definitely seeing ashift away from that
traditional image ofgrandparents as simply retirees
enjoying their golden years.
Right, Many of them are stillworking, pursuing passions
contributing to theircommunities.
Speaker 1 (04:18):
Yeah, they have their own lives and priorities.
Speaker 2 (04:20):
Exactly, and that adds another layer of complexity
to these relationships, becauseboth grandparents and parents
need to be open about you know,expectations and boundaries For
sure.
To avoid resentment and createa harmonious dynamic.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
Communication is key.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Always.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Especially as we see these non-traditional family
structures becoming more common.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
Absolutely.
You know we're seeing moreblended families, same-sex
parents and other variationsthat challenge the traditional
definition of what it means tobe a grandparent.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
So there's no one-size-fits-all approach to
grandparenting anymore.
Speaker 2 (04:53):
Not at all, and that diversity of experience is
something that we're going to beexploring a lot more.
As we get deeper into thesesources, we'll look at how
different grandparents arenavigating these challenges, the
resources that are available tothem and what the future might
hold for this evolving role.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
Sounds like we have a lot to unpack.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
We do.
Speaker 1 (05:10):
But before we move on , I want to mention one specific
resource that I came across.
Okay, a website calledwwwgrandparents-daycom.
Oh that sounds interesting.
Tell me more.
Yeah, it's dedicated toNational Grandparents Day and it
has information about thehistory of the celebration,
contests, events, oh, wow, allsorts of things that might be
(05:33):
interesting to our listeners.
Speaker 2 (05:34):
That's a great tip, you know.
It highlights the fact thatthere's a whole online community
out there specifically forgrandparents.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
Offering support, advice, a chance to connect with
others who really get it.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
It's like a virtual grandparent network.
Speaker 2 (05:44):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (05:45):
And speaking of online communities, another
article mentioned Feedspot'scurated list of the best
grandparent blogs and websitesfor 2025.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Oh, I'm always on the lookout for good resources.
What's special about this list?
Speaker 1 (05:58):
Well, it's ranked by relevance, social media
following and freshness, so it'sa great starting point for
grandparents looking to connectonline.
Plus, it really highlights thediverse range of topics and
perspectives within thiscommunity.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
That's really helpful .
It sounds like these onlineplatforms can offer a valuable
sense of connection and support,especially for grandparents who
might be feeling isolated orfacing unique challenges.
Speaker 1 (06:22):
And as we delve deeper into those challenges, I
think it's important toacknowledge the emotional toll
that some grandparentsexperience particularly those
who are raising theirgrandchildren.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
You're right.
We need to be sensitive to theadded pressure they're under,
dealing with legal complexities,financial strain and the
potential trauma that theirgrandchildren might be carrying.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
It's a testament to their strength and resilience.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
It really is.
Speaker 1 (06:47):
And it makes the need for support systems, both
online and in their communities,even more critical.
Speaker 2 (06:53):
Absolutely, and you know there are organizations
like Generations United that aredoing amazing work in
advocating for grandfamilies andconnecting them to those vital
resources.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Their work is crucial in recognizing that these
grandparents aren't just fillinga void Right.
They're playing a critical rolein our society.
Speaker 2 (07:09):
They are.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
And they deserve all the support we can give them.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
Well said, and it's heartwarming to see
organizations like GenerationsUnited working tirelessly to
ensure that these families havethe resources they need to
thrive.
Speaker 1 (07:22):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
You know, as we talk about these incredible
individuals, though, it'simportant to remember that many
grandparents are raisinggrandchildren who've experienced
trauma or loss.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
It's a heartbreaking reality.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
Yeah, you know, these children may be dealing with
the effects of parentalsubstance abuse, incarceration,
even death.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
And their grandparents are stepping up to
provide a loving and stableenvironment during a very
difficult time.
Speaker 2 (07:45):
It's a truly remarkable act of love and
selflessness.
You know, they're not onlyproviding for their
grandchildren's basic needs, butthey're helping them heal and
build resilience.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
Yeah, it's a challenging but incredibly
rewarding journey.
Speaker 2 (07:59):
It is.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
And it highlights the incredible strength and
compassion that grandparentspossess.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (08:04):
But even beyond those extraordinary circumstances, it
seems like grandparenting in2025 is about finding balance
amidst a rapidly changing world.
Speaker 2 (08:14):
You've hit the nail on the head.
It's about balancingtechnological advancements with
the need for in-personconnection, honoring individual
needs and preferences whilenavigating evolving family
dynamics and embracing thediversity of experiences that
define grandparenting today.
Speaker 1 (08:31):
And with that let's dive deeper into those specific
experiences and explore whatmakes each
grandparent-grandchildrelationship so unique and
special.
Speaker 2 (08:40):
Let's do it.
There's so many fascinatingstories and insights waiting to
be uncovered.
It's amazing, when you reallystart looking at individual
stories, how much technology ischanging things.
Speaker 1 (08:49):
Yeah, it's really a mixed bag, isn't it?
But on one hand, you've gotthings like Facebook, where
grandparents are connecting withtheir grandkids in ways they
never could have imagined before.
Speaker 2 (08:57):
All right sharing photos keeping up with their
lives.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Yeah, and even joining those Facebook groups
specifically for grandparents.
Speaker 2 (09:03):
Right Finding support and advice from other
grandparents.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
Yeah, but then some sources are saying hold on a
second.
Is all this technology actuallycreating a barrier to real
connection?
Speaker 2 (09:14):
It's a valid concern.
Right, are we replacing thoseface-to-face moments?
Speaker 1 (09:22):
those spontaneous interactions with screens,
exactly.
And then you have thegrandparents, who aren't as
comfortable with technologyRight.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
That digital divide can be really isolating.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Yeah, and it's not just about having the devices
and the internet, it's aboutfeeling confident in using them.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:33):
One article is talking about digital literacy
programs for seniors.
Speaker 2 (09:36):
That's a great idea.
Speaker 1 (09:37):
Not just showing them how to use a specific app, but
really helping them navigate theonline world.
Speaker 2 (09:42):
Empowering them.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
Exactly, and it's not just about connecting with
grandkids either.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
No, think about artificial intelligence.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 2 (09:50):
The articles talk about AI being a game changer
for grandparents in the future.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Really how.
Speaker 2 (09:56):
Helping them stay organized, managing their health
, even translating languages sothey can talk to grandkids who
speak different languages.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
Oh, that's like having a personal assistant,
right.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Exactly.
But even with all thistechnology, I keep coming back
to this question of what's thereal legacy of grandparenting,
you know?
Speaker 1 (10:12):
That's a great question.
I think about the tangiblethings.
We pass down heirlooms, photoalbums, recipes, yeah but the
real treasures are theintangible things, the values,
the beliefs, the stories, thelove.
Speaker 2 (10:24):
It's about shaping hearts and minds, not just
giving gifts.
Speaker 1 (10:27):
Exactly, and one powerful way to do that is
through intergenerationalstorytelling.
I love that Grandparentssharing their life experiences,
their wisdom, their perspectiveson the world.
Speaker 2 (10:37):
It's not just entertaining, it's connecting
across generations.
Speaker 1 (10:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (10:41):
I love thinking about grandparents as the keepers of
family history.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (10:44):
Giving us that sense of where we come from, and I
think that's especiallyimportant in today's world where
everything feels so fast-pacedand ever-changing.
Speaker 1 (10:53):
Grandparents offer that sense of continuity, a
connection to the past.
Right.
But we also have to acknowledgethat family dynamics aren't
always perfect.
Right, there can be conflicts,strained relationships, even
legal battles over visitationrights.
Speaker 2 (11:06):
It's a difficult reality for many grandparents
and it's important for them toknow that they have rights and
resources available.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
But at the same time, they also have to respect the
boundaries set by the parents.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Of course, supporting the parents in their role as
primary caregivers is essential.
Speaker 1 (11:20):
Yeah, it's not about undermining them or imposing
your own values.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
No, it's about being a positive influence, a source
of love and support.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Communication is key, absolutely.
And what about the role ofcommunity in supporting
grandparents?
Speaker 2 (11:34):
That's so important.
The articles talk aboutcommunity centers, senior
centers, faith-basedorganizations becoming hubs for
intergenerational activities.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
Okay, so things like mentoring programs, tutoring
arts and crafts.
Speaker 2 (11:46):
Exactly Creating opportunities for young and old
to connect and learn from eachother.
Speaker 1 (11:50):
It's about those organic interactions, those
relationships that go beyondblood ties.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
Right, and for grandparents raising their
grandchildren, these communityspaces can be a lifeline.
Speaker 1 (12:00):
Yeah, offering resources, support groups, a
sense of belonging.
Speaker 2 (12:03):
Exactly, and I think this is where organizations like
Generations United really shine.
Speaker 1 (12:09):
Right, advocating for policies that support
grandfamilies and promotingthese intergenerational programs
.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
Yeah, their work is crucial in highlighting the
impact thesegrandparent-grandchild bonds
have on society as a whole.
Speaker 1 (12:21):
It's not just about individual families.
It's about building a moreconnected and compassionate
world.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Exactly.
And speaking of organizationspromoting intergenerational
connection, there's also theLegacy Project.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Oh yeah, I was just looking at their website.
It's amazing.
Speaker 2 (12:36):
Isn't it full of resources?
Speaker 1 (12:37):
Yeah, practical tips, communication ideas, activity
ideas, even inspiring storiesabout these relationships.
Speaker 2 (12:43):
It reinforces the idea that even small acts of
connection can make a bigdifference.
Speaker 1 (12:48):
Like sharing a meal, listening to a story, simply
being present.
Speaker 2 (12:51):
Exactly those seemingly small gestures can
have a lasting impact.
Speaker 1 (12:55):
So, as we're exploring all these diverse
experiences and this evolvinglandscape of grandparenting,
yeah, I think there's so much wecan learn from the grandparents
themselves.
I completely agree.
I think we often underestimatetheir wisdom and insights.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
Yeah, they've seen so much.
They've witnessed societalshifts, technological
advancements, cultural changes.
Speaker 1 (13:15):
Right, their perspective is invaluable.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
It's like they hold the map to navigating life.
Speaker 1 (13:21):
And that's why I think intergenerational
storytelling is so powerful.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (13:25):
It's not just about preserving family history.
It's about tapping into thiswellspring of knowledge and
experience.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
It's about gaining wisdom, understanding a deeper
connection to who we are.
Speaker 1 (13:36):
Exactly, and in a world that often feels divided
and disconnected, theseintergenerational bonds offer a
path toward greaterunderstanding, empathy and unity
.
Speaker 2 (13:46):
It's a beautiful reminder that we're all part of
this larger human story, atapestry woven together by
generations, past, present andfuture.
Well said, and as we movetoward the end of our deep dive,
let's reflect on what thismeans for the future of
grandparenting.
Let's reflect on what thismeans for the future of
grandparenting.
What can we learn from thesediverse experiences and how can
we ensure that these vitalrelationships continue to thrive
(14:07):
in a world that's constantlychanging?
Speaker 1 (14:09):
It's amazing to think about all the different ways
that grandparenting is evolving.
It really is.
It's such a dynamic andmultifaceted role.
Yeah, and even with all thechanges, there's still that core
essence of the grandparentgrandchild bond that remains so
powerful.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
Absolutely Unconditional love, the wisdom
they share, the sense ofbelonging.
It transcends time and culture.
Speaker 1 (14:31):
It really does.
But as we look to the future,how do we make sure this bond
stays strong amidst all thechanges happening in the world?
Speaker 2 (14:38):
It's a big question, right how do we navigate all the
technological advancements, theshifting family dynamics and
still preserve the heart of whatmakes these relationships so
special?
Speaker 1 (14:47):
I think a big part of it is acknowledging that
there's no one-size-fits-allapproach to grandparenting
anymore.
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Exactly.
We've seen how somegrandparents are embracing
technology wholeheartedly,connecting through video calls,
social media, even AI-poweredtools Right, connecting through
video calls, social media, evenAI-powered tools.
Speaker 1 (15:01):
Right.
And then you have others whoprioritize those in-person
moments, the shared experiences,the tangible connections.
Speaker 2 (15:07):
And, of course, we can't forget the grandparents
who are raising theirgrandchildren, taking on a whole
different set of challenges andneeding different kinds of
support, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (15:15):
We have to recognize and respect those differences,
meet grandparents where they areand provide resources that are
tailored to their individualneeds and circumstances.
Speaker 2 (15:23):
And that's where organizations like Generations
United and the Legacy Projectare doing such important work.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
Yeah.
Advocating for policiessupporting grandfamilies,
promoting intergenerationalprograms, offering a wealth of
resources.
Speaker 2 (15:35):
But ECO's beyond formal programs and
organizations.
It's about fostering a culturethat values these
intergenerational connections.
Speaker 1 (15:43):
So creating those spaces where young and old can
interact organically.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
Exactly the community gardens, mentoring programs,
intergenerational choirs, placeswhere those chance encounters
and shared experiences canflourish.
Speaker 1 (15:56):
It's about weaving those connections into the
fabric of our everyday lives,and I think it starts with
simply acknowledging theincredible wisdom and experience
that grandparents have.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
Absolutely.
They've lived through so much,seen the world change in
remarkable ways.
Speaker 1 (16:10):
Their stories, their perspectives, their insights are
priceless, especially in aworld that often feels so
uncertain and chaotic.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
And so listening to their stories isn't just a way
to honor their past.
It's a way to learn and grow inthe present.
Speaker 1 (16:24):
And it's also about sharing our own lives with them,
keeping them engaged in theworld around them.
Speaker 2 (16:29):
It's a two-way street that exchanges stories,
experiences, perspectives.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
That's what keeps these relationships vibrant and
meaningful.
Speaker 2 (16:35):
And it ensures that the legacy of grandparenting
continues to shape futuregenerations.
Speaker 1 (16:40):
It's really a beautiful thing when you think
about it the values, thetraditions, the love being
passed down through theseconnections, woven into who we
are.
Speaker 2 (16:49):
It really is.
And as we move forward, it's upto all of us to nurture these
connections, make sure that thewisdom and love of grandparents
continue to guide futuregenerations.
Speaker 1 (16:58):
So, as we wrap up this deep dive, we want to leave
you with a challenge Reach outto the grandparents in your life
.
Speaker 2 (17:04):
Yes, listen to their stories, share your own day,
celebrate that special bond youshare.
Speaker 1 (17:11):
Their love and wisdom are gifts that deserve to be
cherished, not just on NationalGrandparents Day, but every
single day.
Speaker 2 (17:18):
And we want to thank you for joining us on this
journey of exploration.
We hope it's given you some newinsights and inspired you to
deepen those preciousgrandparent-grandchild
connections in your own life.
Hey everyone and welcome to a deep dive all about
grandparenting in 2025.
Speaker 2 (00:05):
Yeah, it's definitely a topic that a lot of people
are thinking about and talkingabout these days.
Speaker 1 (00:08):
For sure, and especially timely with National
Grandparents Day coming up onSeptember 13th.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
Absolutely A perfect time to kind of reflect on, you
know, the role that grandparentsplay in our families and in
society.
Speaker 1 (00:20):
Absolutely so.
We're diving into a whole bunchof articles and blog overviews
to unpack all of this.
Speaker 2 (00:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
And one of the first things that jumped out at me was
just this idea that thegrandparent population is
booming.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Oh yeah, it's exploding.
Speaker 1 (00:33):
Yeah, we're going to have a ton of grandparents in
the next.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
You know, five, 10 years 20 percent of Americans by
2030 are going to be 65 orolder.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Yeah, that's a huge number.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Yeah, it's a massive shift and you know we throw
around these statistics like 96percent of people over 65 are
grandparents.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
And you know, most have four or five grandkids.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Right.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
And by 2030, almost all eight year olds will have a
living great grandparent.
Speaker 1 (00:58):
That's pretty amazing to think about, but it makes
you wonder what does thatactually mean, like on a
practical level, for familiesand, you know, for society?
Speaker 2 (01:06):
Well, you know, we often think about grandparents
as the cookie bakers and thestorytellers and the dispensers
of wisdom.
Speaker 1 (01:13):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
But with longer lifespans and changing family
dynamics, you know their role isbecoming much more multifaceted
.
Speaker 1 (01:20):
Yeah, and one of the articles pointed out this idea
of evolving roles, which I thinkis really fascinating, like,
for example, the rise ofgrandfamilies.
Speaker 2 (01:28):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Where grandparents are actually the primary
caregivers for theirgrandchildren.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
It's a huge trend and you know it's not always by
choice.
It's often driven by thingslike you know, substance abuse
or incarceration of the parents.
Speaker 1 (01:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into
unexpectedly.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yeah, about 10 percent of grandparents live
with their grandchildren.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into
unexpectedly.
Yeah, about 10 percent ofgrandparents live with their
grandchildren.
Yeah and 5 percent are theprimary caregivers.
That's incredible.
It is, and you can imagine thechallenges that come with that?
Speaker 1 (01:53):
Yeah, definitely, and we'll get into those challenges
a bit more.
But you know, even beyond thosespecific situations, the
articles also talk about justthe everyday challenges that
grandparents face, like distanceand busy schedules making it
harder to connect.
Speaker 2 (02:06):
Oh yeah, that's a common one.
Over half of grandparents liveover 200 miles from at least one
grandchild.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
Yeah, and everybody's busy these days, juggling work
and their own lives.
Speaker 2 (02:15):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (02:16):
It's tough to make time for those regular visits.
It is, and that's wheretechnology comes in, as both a
solution and a potentialchallenge.
Yeah, I was just thinking aboutthat too, because, on the one
hand, we have all these amazingtools like Zoom and FaceTime
that allow for virtual visitsand you can read bedtime stories
across the miles.
But, as we were saying before,not all grandparents are tech
(02:39):
savvy and some lack access toreliable Internet or devices.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
Exactly, and that creates a digital divide.
Yeah, it does when noteverybody's benefiting equally
from these advancements.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
And even for the grandparents, who are
comfortable with technology.
I wonder if those virtualinteractions can ever truly
replace those in-person moments,you know, those shared
experiences.
Speaker 2 (03:03):
That's a really good point and, you know, one of the
articles that we readhighlighted this organization
called Grand Camp Adventures.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
And they really emphasize that the most
meaningful connections come fromsimple play and shared
experiences.
Ok, not necessarily like youknow extravagant trips or you
know expensive gifts.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
So like baking cookies together, going for a
walk, reading a book aloud.
Speaker 2 (03:27):
Exactly those are the activities that really create
those lasting memories.
Speaker 1 (03:30):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:31):
And that actually ties into another point that
came up a lot, which is theimportance of snail mail.
Speaker 1 (03:35):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
You know it might seem old fashioned in the
digital age A little bit, butthat tangible connection of a
handwritten letter or a specialphoto is something that both
grandparents and grandkidsreally cherish.
Speaker 1 (03:48):
I can see that.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:49):
So it seems like it's all about finding that balance.
Speaker 2 (03:52):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Between the tech-enabled connection and
those in-person moments.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Absolutely Striking.
That balance is key.
Speaker 1 (03:58):
And then there's the bigger question of you know,
what role do grandparents playin society as a whole, and how
is that evolving?
Speaker 2 (04:05):
Right.
Well, we're definitely seeing ashift away from that
traditional image ofgrandparents as simply retirees
enjoying their golden years.
Right, Many of them are stillworking, pursuing passions
contributing to theircommunities.
Speaker 1 (04:18):
Yeah, they have their own lives and priorities.
Speaker 2 (04:20):
Exactly, and that adds another layer of complexity
to these relationships, becauseboth grandparents and parents
need to be open about you know,expectations and boundaries For
sure.
To avoid resentment and createa harmonious dynamic.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
Communication is key.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Always.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Especially as we see these non-traditional family
structures becoming more common.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
Absolutely.
You know we're seeing moreblended families, same-sex
parents and other variationsthat challenge the traditional
definition of what it means tobe a grandparent.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
So there's no one-size-fits-all approach to
grandparenting anymore.
Speaker 2 (04:53):
Not at all, and that diversity of experience is
something that we're going to beexploring a lot more.
As we get deeper into thesesources, we'll look at how
different grandparents arenavigating these challenges, the
resources that are available tothem and what the future might
hold for this evolving role.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
Sounds like we have a lot to unpack.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
We do.
Speaker 1 (05:10):
But before we move on , I want to mention one specific
resource that I came across.
Okay, a website calledwwwgrandparents-daycom.
Oh that sounds interesting.
Tell me more.
Yeah, it's dedicated toNational Grandparents Day and it
has information about thehistory of the celebration,
contests, events, oh, wow, allsorts of things that might be
(05:33):
interesting to our listeners.
Speaker 2 (05:34):
That's a great tip, you know.
It highlights the fact thatthere's a whole online community
out there specifically forgrandparents.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
Offering support, advice, a chance to connect with
others who really get it.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
It's like a virtual grandparent network.
Speaker 2 (05:44):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (05:45):
And speaking of online communities, another
article mentioned Feedspot'scurated list of the best
grandparent blogs and websitesfor 2025.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Oh, I'm always on the lookout for good resources.
What's special about this list?
Speaker 1 (05:58):
Well, it's ranked by relevance, social media
following and freshness, so it'sa great starting point for
grandparents looking to connectonline.
Plus, it really highlights thediverse range of topics and
perspectives within thiscommunity.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
That's really helpful .
It sounds like these onlineplatforms can offer a valuable
sense of connection and support,especially for grandparents who
might be feeling isolated orfacing unique challenges.
Speaker 1 (06:22):
And as we delve deeper into those challenges, I
think it's important toacknowledge the emotional toll
that some grandparentsexperience particularly those
who are raising theirgrandchildren.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
You're right.
We need to be sensitive to theadded pressure they're under,
dealing with legal complexities,financial strain and the
potential trauma that theirgrandchildren might be carrying.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
It's a testament to their strength and resilience.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
It really is.
Speaker 1 (06:47):
And it makes the need for support systems, both
online and in their communities,even more critical.
Speaker 2 (06:53):
Absolutely, and you know there are organizations
like Generations United that aredoing amazing work in
advocating for grandfamilies andconnecting them to those vital
resources.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Their work is crucial in recognizing that these
grandparents aren't just fillinga void Right.
They're playing a critical rolein our society.
Speaker 2 (07:09):
They are.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
And they deserve all the support we can give them.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
Well said, and it's heartwarming to see
organizations like GenerationsUnited working tirelessly to
ensure that these families havethe resources they need to
thrive.
Speaker 1 (07:22):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
You know, as we talk about these incredible
individuals, though, it'simportant to remember that many
grandparents are raisinggrandchildren who've experienced
trauma or loss.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
It's a heartbreaking reality.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
Yeah, you know, these children may be dealing with
the effects of parentalsubstance abuse, incarceration,
even death.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
And their grandparents are stepping up to
provide a loving and stableenvironment during a very
difficult time.
Speaker 2 (07:45):
It's a truly remarkable act of love and
selflessness.
You know, they're not onlyproviding for their
grandchildren's basic needs, butthey're helping them heal and
build resilience.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
Yeah, it's a challenging but incredibly
rewarding journey.
Speaker 2 (07:59):
It is.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
And it highlights the incredible strength and
compassion that grandparentspossess.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (08:04):
But even beyond those extraordinary circumstances, it
seems like grandparenting in2025 is about finding balance
amidst a rapidly changing world.
Speaker 2 (08:14):
You've hit the nail on the head.
It's about balancingtechnological advancements with
the need for in-personconnection, honoring individual
needs and preferences whilenavigating evolving family
dynamics and embracing thediversity of experiences that
define grandparenting today.
Speaker 1 (08:31):
And with that let's dive deeper into those specific
experiences and explore whatmakes each
grandparent-grandchildrelationship so unique and
special.
Speaker 2 (08:40):
Let's do it.
There's so many fascinatingstories and insights waiting to
be uncovered.
It's amazing, when you reallystart looking at individual
stories, how much technology ischanging things.
Speaker 1 (08:49):
Yeah, it's really a mixed bag, isn't it?
But on one hand, you've gotthings like Facebook, where
grandparents are connecting withtheir grandkids in ways they
never could have imagined before.
Speaker 2 (08:57):
All right sharing photos keeping up with their
lives.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Yeah, and even joining those Facebook groups
specifically for grandparents.
Speaker 2 (09:03):
Right Finding support and advice from other
grandparents.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
Yeah, but then some sources are saying hold on a
second.
Is all this technology actuallycreating a barrier to real
connection?
Speaker 2 (09:14):
It's a valid concern.
Right, are we replacing thoseface-to-face moments?
Speaker 1 (09:22):
those spontaneous interactions with screens,
exactly.
And then you have thegrandparents, who aren't as
comfortable with technologyRight.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
That digital divide can be really isolating.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Yeah, and it's not just about having the devices
and the internet, it's aboutfeeling confident in using them.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:33):
One article is talking about digital literacy
programs for seniors.
Speaker 2 (09:36):
That's a great idea.
Speaker 1 (09:37):
Not just showing them how to use a specific app, but
really helping them navigate theonline world.
Speaker 2 (09:42):
Empowering them.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
Exactly, and it's not just about connecting with
grandkids either.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
No, think about artificial intelligence.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 2 (09:50):
The articles talk about AI being a game changer
for grandparents in the future.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Really how.
Speaker 2 (09:56):
Helping them stay organized, managing their health
, even translating languages sothey can talk to grandkids who
speak different languages.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
Oh, that's like having a personal assistant,
right.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Exactly.
But even with all thistechnology, I keep coming back
to this question of what's thereal legacy of grandparenting,
you know?
Speaker 1 (10:12):
That's a great question.
I think about the tangiblethings.
We pass down heirlooms, photoalbums, recipes, yeah but the
real treasures are theintangible things, the values,
the beliefs, the stories, thelove.
Speaker 2 (10:24):
It's about shaping hearts and minds, not just
giving gifts.
Speaker 1 (10:27):
Exactly, and one powerful way to do that is
through intergenerationalstorytelling.
I love that Grandparentssharing their life experiences,
their wisdom, their perspectiveson the world.
Speaker 2 (10:37):
It's not just entertaining, it's connecting
across generations.
Speaker 1 (10:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (10:41):
I love thinking about grandparents as the keepers of
family history.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (10:44):
Giving us that sense of where we come from, and I
think that's especiallyimportant in today's world where
everything feels so fast-pacedand ever-changing.
Speaker 1 (10:53):
Grandparents offer that sense of continuity, a
connection to the past.
Right.
But we also have to acknowledgethat family dynamics aren't
always perfect.
Right, there can be conflicts,strained relationships, even
legal battles over visitationrights.
Speaker 2 (11:06):
It's a difficult reality for many grandparents
and it's important for them toknow that they have rights and
resources available.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
But at the same time, they also have to respect the
boundaries set by the parents.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Of course, supporting the parents in their role as
primary caregivers is essential.
Speaker 1 (11:20):
Yeah, it's not about undermining them or imposing
your own values.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
No, it's about being a positive influence, a source
of love and support.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Communication is key, absolutely.
And what about the role ofcommunity in supporting
grandparents?
Speaker 2 (11:34):
That's so important.
The articles talk aboutcommunity centers, senior
centers, faith-basedorganizations becoming hubs for
intergenerational activities.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
Okay, so things like mentoring programs, tutoring
arts and crafts.
Speaker 2 (11:46):
Exactly Creating opportunities for young and old
to connect and learn from eachother.
Speaker 1 (11:50):
It's about those organic interactions, those
relationships that go beyondblood ties.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
Right, and for grandparents raising their
grandchildren, these communityspaces can be a lifeline.
Speaker 1 (12:00):
Yeah, offering resources, support groups, a
sense of belonging.
Speaker 2 (12:03):
Exactly, and I think this is where organizations like
Generations United really shine.
Speaker 1 (12:09):
Right, advocating for policies that support
grandfamilies and promotingthese intergenerational programs
.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
Yeah, their work is crucial in highlighting the
impact thesegrandparent-grandchild bonds
have on society as a whole.
Speaker 1 (12:21):
It's not just about individual families.
It's about building a moreconnected and compassionate
world.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Exactly.
And speaking of organizationspromoting intergenerational
connection, there's also theLegacy Project.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Oh yeah, I was just looking at their website.
It's amazing.
Speaker 2 (12:36):
Isn't it full of resources?
Speaker 1 (12:37):
Yeah, practical tips, communication ideas, activity
ideas, even inspiring storiesabout these relationships.
Speaker 2 (12:43):
It reinforces the idea that even small acts of
connection can make a bigdifference.
Speaker 1 (12:48):
Like sharing a meal, listening to a story, simply
being present.
Speaker 2 (12:51):
Exactly those seemingly small gestures can
have a lasting impact.
Speaker 1 (12:55):
So, as we're exploring all these diverse
experiences and this evolvinglandscape of grandparenting,
yeah, I think there's so much wecan learn from the grandparents
themselves.
I completely agree.
I think we often underestimatetheir wisdom and insights.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
Yeah, they've seen so much.
They've witnessed societalshifts, technological
advancements, cultural changes.
Speaker 1 (13:15):
Right, their perspective is invaluable.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
It's like they hold the map to navigating life.
Speaker 1 (13:21):
And that's why I think intergenerational
storytelling is so powerful.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (13:25):
It's not just about preserving family history.
It's about tapping into thiswellspring of knowledge and
experience.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
It's about gaining wisdom, understanding a deeper
connection to who we are.
Speaker 1 (13:36):
Exactly, and in a world that often feels divided
and disconnected, theseintergenerational bonds offer a
path toward greaterunderstanding, empathy and unity
.
Speaker 2 (13:46):
It's a beautiful reminder that we're all part of
this larger human story, atapestry woven together by
generations, past, present andfuture.
Well said, and as we movetoward the end of our deep dive,
let's reflect on what thismeans for the future of
grandparenting.
Let's reflect on what thismeans for the future of
grandparenting.
What can we learn from thesediverse experiences and how can
we ensure that these vitalrelationships continue to thrive
(14:07):
in a world that's constantlychanging?
Speaker 1 (14:09):
It's amazing to think about all the different ways
that grandparenting is evolving.
It really is.
It's such a dynamic andmultifaceted role.
Yeah, and even with all thechanges, there's still that core
essence of the grandparentgrandchild bond that remains so
powerful.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
Absolutely Unconditional love, the wisdom
they share, the sense ofbelonging.
It transcends time and culture.
Speaker 1 (14:31):
It really does.
But as we look to the future,how do we make sure this bond
stays strong amidst all thechanges happening in the world?
Speaker 2 (14:38):
It's a big question, right how do we navigate all the
technological advancements, theshifting family dynamics and
still preserve the heart of whatmakes these relationships so
special?
Speaker 1 (14:47):
I think a big part of it is acknowledging that
there's no one-size-fits-allapproach to grandparenting
anymore.
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Exactly.
We've seen how somegrandparents are embracing
technology wholeheartedly,connecting through video calls,
social media, even AI-poweredtools Right, connecting through
video calls, social media, evenAI-powered tools.
Speaker 1 (15:01):
Right.
And then you have others whoprioritize those in-person
moments, the shared experiences,the tangible connections.
Speaker 2 (15:07):
And, of course, we can't forget the grandparents
who are raising theirgrandchildren, taking on a whole
different set of challenges andneeding different kinds of
support, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (15:15):
We have to recognize and respect those differences,
meet grandparents where they areand provide resources that are
tailored to their individualneeds and circumstances.
Speaker 2 (15:23):
And that's where organizations like Generations
United and the Legacy Projectare doing such important work.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
Yeah.
Advocating for policiessupporting grandfamilies,
promoting intergenerationalprograms, offering a wealth of
resources.
Speaker 2 (15:35):
But ECO's beyond formal programs and
organizations.
It's about fostering a culturethat values these
intergenerational connections.
Speaker 1 (15:43):
So creating those spaces where young and old can
interact organically.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
Exactly the community gardens, mentoring programs,
intergenerational choirs, placeswhere those chance encounters
and shared experiences canflourish.
Speaker 1 (15:56):
It's about weaving those connections into the
fabric of our everyday lives,and I think it starts with
simply acknowledging theincredible wisdom and experience
that grandparents have.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
Absolutely.
They've lived through so much,seen the world change in
remarkable ways.
Speaker 1 (16:10):
Their stories, their perspectives, their insights are
priceless, especially in aworld that often feels so
uncertain and chaotic.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
And so listening to their stories isn't just a way
to honor their past.
It's a way to learn and grow inthe present.
Speaker 1 (16:24):
And it's also about sharing our own lives with them,
keeping them engaged in theworld around them.
Speaker 2 (16:29):
It's a two-way street that exchanges stories,
experiences, perspectives.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
That's what keeps these relationships vibrant and
meaningful.
Speaker 2 (16:35):
And it ensures that the legacy of grandparenting
continues to shape futuregenerations.
Speaker 1 (16:40):
It's really a beautiful thing when you think
about it the values, thetraditions, the love being
passed down through theseconnections, woven into who we
are.
Speaker 2 (16:49):
It really is.
And as we move forward, it's upto all of us to nurture these
connections, make sure that thewisdom and love of grandparents
continue to guide futuregenerations.
Speaker 1 (16:58):
So, as we wrap up this deep dive, we want to leave
you with a challenge Reach outto the grandparents in your life
.
Speaker 2 (17:04):
Yes, listen to their stories, share your own day,
celebrate that special bond youshare.
Speaker 1 (17:11):
Their love and wisdom are gifts that deserve to be
cherished, not just on NationalGrandparents Day, but every
single day.
Speaker 2 (17:18):
And we want to thank you for joining us on this
journey of exploration.
We hope it's given you some newinsights and inspired you to
deepen those preciousgrandparent-grandchild
connections in your own life.
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