**Saed News:** There was a time when grandchildren were a strong presence in the homes of their grandparents. Children would learn identity, empathy, life lessons, and more from their elders, while the elders, in turn, would feel a sense of joy and vitality from seeing or caring for their grandchildren.
As a result, family bonds grew stronger, and the generation gap became less noticeable. In this report, we explore—through psychological and sociological perspectives—the importance of reviving this relationship.
Saed News – According to Khorasan Daily, the aroma of freshly brewed tea from grandma’s samovar, the laughter of children playing in a large courtyard carefully tended by grandpa, the sweet taste of chocolates hidden in his pockets, and stories that never seemed to grow old—these memories remain vivid and alive in the minds of many of us.
👴👨👩👦👵I remember how, on a hot summer afternoon after a long day of climbing trees and hiding among the garden flowers, I would say to my worried grandpa, who feared I’d get a nosebleed: "Aghajoon, if you want me to come inside, you have to tell me a story." Grandpa, a truck driver, would share fascinating tales from the nights and days he spent on the road. I never really knew which were true and which were just to entertain me. But whatever they were, the bond between children of past generations and their grandparents was deeply different from what we see today.
Nowadays, even though there are fewer grandchildren, the connection between kids and their grandparents has weakened significantly in many families. Modern life—with all its demands, urban migration, technological change, and more—has left little space for such intimate relationships.
In this report, alongside a nostalgic look at the past, we also discuss the consequences of weakening this bond and the importance of strengthening it from various angles.
Once upon a time, grandparents’ homes were the hub for all kinds of gatherings and group activities, filled with excitement and camaraderie.
Picture a spring afternoon: pleasant weather, a garden freshly watered by grandpa bringing a special charm to the surroundings, a rug spread out on the terrace for the elders; uncles roasting corn; girls playing house in one corner and boys playing soccer in another. In grandparents’ old homes, physical and group games were a natural part of children’s lives.
The courtyard pool became a place for swimming and water games. The children’s laughter filled the house with joy. Climbing the tall garden trees was a fun challenge, letting the kids view the world from above—and, of course, pick some fruit. Hide-and-seek was one of the most beloved games, with kids hiding behind hedges, among flower pots, or in garden corners, waiting excitedly to hear grandpa’s warm laughter as he called out, “Found youuu!”
These games not only created joyful moments but also planted seeds of friendship, interaction, and shared happiness in children’s hearts.
👴👵Storytelling and Timeless Proverbs
Evenings were when the house settled down and grandma began her delightful storytelling. Children gathered around her as she shared fairy tales, Iranian legends, or real stories from her life. Her warm voice would fill the silence of the night and take kids’ imaginations soaring.
Grandmas were not only storytellers but wise mentors. The proverbs and lessons embedded in her stories carried deep, life-shaping meanings. While entertaining, these tales introduced a generation of children to cultural heritage and traditional wisdom.
Family Gatherings During Special Occasions
During holidays like Nowruz or Yalda Night, grandparents’ homes were full of energy and joy. The whole family came together—parents prepared traditional spreads while kids eagerly helped. Delicious homemade dishes and sweets filled the house with inviting aromas. These gatherings weren’t just about affection and warmth; they kept cultural identity and generational values alive.
Religious Ceremonies and Team Effort
Grandma’s house was also a key location for religious events. Kids helped cook and distribute food offerings (nazri), and later collected the empty dishes from neighbors. These simple events fostered teamwork, a sense of identity, and responsibility.
A Cure for Hunger
Even today, grandchildren often feel unusually hungry at grandma’s house—even when they say they’re not. Grandma will insist with: “Why do you look so pale?” and then lovingly offer snacks and meals.
Back in the day, if mothers were busy, grandma’s house was the go-to for a good meal. Her food always formed a big part of happy childhood memories: the aroma of herb soup (ash reshteh), the unforgettable taste and look of kufteh Tabrizi, and homemade jams that made breakfast special—all reflected her deep love for her family. Even her pickles and preserves were homemade. Every meal at grandma’s table was full of warmth, care, and a sense of peace and belonging.
Changing Lifestyles
Apartment living, busy parents, and sometimes even elderly fatigue have reduced family interaction. Though families are smaller, children now have fewer opportunities to connect with their elders.
Impact of Technology
Modern life is dominated by technology and the digital world. Instead of playing in courtyards or listening to stories, many kids are immersed in screens. This has significantly reduced the closeness between grandparents and grandchildren.
Shift in Grandparents’ Roles
In the past, sons or sons-in-law often worked in the family business. Grandparents had vital roles in income and experience. Today, many seniors still work post-retirement due to economic pressures, affecting their availability and influence.
Economic Challenges
Previously, grandparents could host their kids and grandkids regularly. Now, due to high living costs, food prices, and limited retirement income, family gatherings have become rare, often limited to special occasions—widening the generational gap.
Loss of Cultural Identity
Weak grandparent ties lead to ignorance about traditions and customs. Young people lose touch with living history and cultural values, leading to individualism and disconnect from their roots.
Psychological Issues
Grandchildren may feel lonely, depressed, or lack self-confidence. Without positive role models, and influenced by unrealistic social media lives, they may struggle to understand real life and feel overwhelmed by fear and hopelessness.
Weakened Family Foundations
Reduced family unity and growing generational gaps lead to disrespect for elders. This can damage family ties and leave older adults feeling useless, further affecting their mental health.
Social Problems
A society that disrespects its elders cannot build a vibrant, sustainable future. Youth who lack emotional bonds with elders often fail to treat seniors with dignity in public settings like buses, bakeries, or metro stations.
From Emotional Support to Identity and Social Unity
Grandparents offer many benefits for young people—emotional security, identity-building, shared experiences, and more.
Transmission of Values and Traditions
Elders are rich sources of cultural knowledge and can teach the younger generation about beliefs, traditions, and history.
Preserving Heritage
A strong bond helps preserve family and cultural history for future generations.
Stronger Family Belonging
Feeling close to grandparents boosts a child’s sense of family and societal connection.
Increased Family Unity
Close ties strengthen emotional bonds and encourage meaningful family interactions.
Safe and Supportive Spaces
Grandparents provide emotional security and guidance—especially when parent-child relationships are strained.
Stress Reduction
Their wisdom and support can help grandkids better handle life’s challenges.
Improved Emotional Intelligence
Learning from elders' experiences and feelings helps kids grow socially and emotionally.
Stronger Social Cohesion
Intergenerational bonds build more unified communities.
Promotion of Respect
These relationships foster a culture of respect for elders and pass down those values to future generations.
Well-being of Seniors
Active, meaningful grandparenting boosts seniors’ sense of purpose—provided it doesn’t involve overstepping into child-rearing or undermining parents.
Regular Visits
Set times for visits—even weekly or monthly. Consistency matters more than frequency.
Shared Activities
Do things together—traditional games, cooking, watching old movies, or reading.
Conversations and Listening
Ask about family history, browse old albums, and share stories and emotions.
Show Affection
Use loving words, give small gifts, and make everyday interactions warmer.
Use Technology
If physical visits aren’t possible, use video calls, texts, or social media to stay connected.
Celebrate Together
Include grandparents in family events and celebrations.
Create Supportive Public Spaces
Parks, libraries, and community centers that welcome seniors and families help encourage bonding.
