Grandparents and the family Flashcards
(14 cards)
According to June Statham (2011), what are the different roles grandparents may play in childcare?
Occasional babysitters, regular helpers, sole/main carers, or living in multi-generational households.
What percentage of UK families rely on grandparents for childcare?
27%.
What kind of flexibility do grandparents provide in childcare according to Grandparents Plus (2009)?
Fill gaps between formal and parental care, look after sick children, and care beyond 6pm unlike nurseries.
How do grandparents support during family crises?
They support both parents and grandchildren during events like family breakups.
What is kinship care and what did Grandparents Plus find in 2019?
Full-time care by grandparents due to issues like drug/alcohol abuse (43%), domestic violence, or mental illness.
What financial roles do grandparents play, according to Noriega et al. (2017)?
Provide help with property, child trust funds, and passing on assets; role extends beyond “being there when needed”.
How do grandparents contribute to cultural knowledge?
They pass on traditions, family history, and cultural practices, often having more time than parents.
What are ‘beanpole families’ according to Julia Brannen (2003)?
Families with 3+ generations, often not cohabiting but offering regular support and contact.
What did Chambers et al. (2017) find about the impact of grandparents on children’s health?
Informal care led to poorer diets and weight issues due to too many treats.
What is Marsha Jones’ (2011) Marxist critique of grandparent care?
Grandparents are a ‘reserve army of labour’, providing free childcare which benefits capitalism.
What issues did Grandparents Plus (2017) find in kinship carers?
85% working-age carers; many leave jobs; 83% see income drop; emotional and mental health impacted.
What is Deborah Chambers’ (2013) feminist view on grandparenting?
Grandparenting is gendered, with grandmothers taking on more responsibility, reflecting broader family gender roles.
What factors influence the level of support grandparents give?
Cultural background, ethnicity, and social class.
What is a key concern with the growing role of grandparents?
Though mostly positive, it’s often gendered and may negatively affect grandparents who become full-time carers.
