I get a free pass for coming up with this blog title. I am, in fact, a Great-Great Grandpa.
Since I am a member of the minority of Grandparents who are visibly active in the Grandparenting community, it got me thinking. Just what does a Grandfather contribute to our extended families?
Good question. Valid question.
From a marketing perspective, we are told that Grandmothers participate somewhere in the 90 percentile range. Grandfathers do participate in some Facebook activities. One 87-year-old Grandpa is active on TikTok with his Granddaughter, and they garner some 2 million views when they post some content. These are the exceptions rather than the rule. It would be hard to say that you will find Grandfathers participating much in a public way.
This almost begs the question, “If Grandmothers are so present, what is there for Grandfathers to do?” My answer is TONS. I honestly think this may be one of the most significant PR challenges of the century. I interact with Grandparents multiple times a day, research what is going on in Grandparenting circles, and participate with other Grandfathers in public forums. I think I know a lot about Grandfathers and what they contribute.
What we can model best:
- Calm, which fosters confidence
- Affirmation, which builds self-esteem
- Listening creates an incubator for their problem-solving skills
- Guidance which soften the blow of challenge (Don’t fix it, help them to find a way)
- Guidance which soften the blow of challenge (Don’t fix it, help them to find a way)
- Unconditional Love which empowers them
- Affection which helps them know they matter
If you look into the eyes of a Grandchild when Grandpa is present to them, you will see a Secure Attachment. You will see a Grandchild who feels safe. You will see a Grandchild who feels Loved. You will see a Grandchild looking back at a real Male Role Model.
Grandpas may not bake the best cookies but that doesn’t diminish the value they add to their Grandkids. Grandmas have their contributions, and Grandpas have theirs. Show your Greatness.
To find community with like-minded men, there is a great podcast called “Cool Grandpa.” The host is Greg Payne, and he is leading the charge to help Grandfathers join with other Grandfathers to allow each of us to become better Grandpas.
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