Family is what you make of it. Sometimes your “chosen family” is your family, and extended family members can add a lot of joy into a child’s life. Nowadays, over 55% of Americans live within an hour’s drive of extended family members, according to Pew Research Center. These extended family relationships can provide numerous benefits, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for children to grow and thrive within.

Extended family members often provide an additional layer of emotional support for children. Having multiple trusted adults to turn to can help children feel more secure and loved. This network of support can be especially beneficial during challenging times, such as family changes, school transitions, or personal struggles. Knowing that they have a broader circle of people who care about them can significantly enhance a child’s emotional resilience and stability.

Extended family members are often the keepers of family traditions, stories, and cultural heritage. Grandparents, in particular, can pass down valuable knowledge about family history and cultural practices. These connections help children develop a sense of identity and belonging. Understanding their roots and being part of family traditions can instill pride and a deeper understanding of their cultural background.

Having a variety of role models within the extended family allows children to learn from different perspectives and experiences. Each family member can offer unique insights, skills, and knowledge. For instance, an aunt who is an artist might inspire a child’s creativity, while a grandfather who is into gardening can teach them about nature and patience. Exposure to diverse role models helps children develop a well-rounded view of the world and can influence their aspirations and interests.

Interacting with extended family members provides children with opportunities to develop and practice social skills. Family gatherings, celebrations, and even everyday interactions teach children how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and navigate various social dynamics. These experiences are essential for building strong interpersonal relationships and preparing children for broader social interactions outside the family.

Extended family members can offer practical support and mentorship in various aspects of life. From helping with homework to providing career advice, these relatives can play an essential role in a child’s education and personal development. Mentorship from extended family members can be particularly impactful, as they often have a vested interest in the child’s success and well-being.

Belonging to an extended family fosters a sense of community and interconnectedness. Children learn the value of cooperation, mutual support, and collective responsibility. This sense of community extends beyond the immediate family, creating a broader network of people who care for and support each other. It teaches children the importance of contributing to the well-being of others and helps them develop a compassionate and empathetic outlook.

The benefits of extended family relationships are profound and far-reaching. From providing emotional support and cultural connections to offering diverse role models and practical mentorship, extended family members play a crucial role in a child’s development. These relationships enrich children’s lives, helping them build a strong sense of identity, resilience, and community.

Sources

ACP, “Grandparents & the Extended Family.” – International Leadership Institute, “THERE ARE BENEFITS TO HAVING EXTENDED FAMILY NEARBY.” – Pew Research Center, “More than half of Americans live within an hour of extended family.” – Hyun Jin Preston Moon, “4 Benefits of the Extended Family Model.”