Anyone who had a lot of contact with their grandparents as a child usually has fond memories of that time. Grandmas and grandpas have one big advantage over parents: they are not there to educate and reprimand their grandchildren, but to simply have a good time with them.
This has been shown to have a positive effect on the well-being and development of children, as shown by a large-scale study conducted by Oxford University. The result was clear: those of the approximately 1,500 study participants who had a lot of contact with their grandparents showed fewer emotional problems or behavioral problems than children with little or no contact.
It’s no wonder, then, that many young families are looking for substitute grandparents when their biological grandmas and grandpas are no longer around or they live too far away. “We have received numerous requests for substitute grandmas, but also for younger women who would like to spend a few hours with children once or twice a week,” says Elisabeth Asanger, coordinator and education officer at the Catholic Family Association of Upper Austria. Nannies and grannies are therefore urgently needed.
“An enrichment for life”
Retired accountant Maria Woisetschläger (65) from Traun has had “extremely good experiences” as a surrogate grandmother: “I like children because their joy of life is so infectious. That’s why I always had a lot of fun with my surrogate guys.” A lasting friendship even developed with one of the families she looked after. “The children are now teenagers, but we still see each other often because we get on so well.”
Woisetschläger is always particularly pleased when twelve-year-old Emma proudly introduces her to others with the words: “This is my surrogate grandmother!” For the pensioner, this activity enriches her life – “and a pure win-win situation for everyone.” Woisetschläger also enjoys attending the regular get-togethers of surrogate grandmothers and nannies in the respective districts. “It gives you the opportunity to exchange ideas and meet new people.”
Alina M., a 27-year-old administrative employee from Linz, feels the need to help mothers to balance family and work, which is why she also works as a nanny for young families. “I also find it nice to accompany children over a longer period of time and to experience their development,” says the young woman.
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Source: Nachrichten
