Listen: Dr Sam Wass on families reuniting

Millions of families are being reunited this half-term after months of being denied face-to-face contact with their nearest and dearest, with many grandparents able to finally make that trip to visit their children and grandkids after months of being cooped up at home, missing out on an estimated 49 hugs, 47 kisses and 40 conversations on average in the last year as well as many milestones.

About 71% of the nation’s grandmas and grandpas are excitedly counting down the days until they see their grandchildren with 76% ready to resume their grandparenting duties once again. According to megabus research, they hope to spend 20% more time with their grandkids post-lockdown (30 hours a month) than they did with their own grandparents back in the day.

However, it is not just grandmothers and grandfathers who have been missing being together as a family – the feeling is mutual as far as parents are concerned with 74% of mums and dads looking forward to a family reunion as soon as possible, as restrictions lift.

Aston spoke to child psychologist Dr Sam Wass to discuss the role grandparents play in a child’s life and the importance of their relationship, as well as what lies ahead following our long-awaited grand reunions as children look to put 14 months’ disruption in all areas of their lives firmly behind them if the upward trajectory is maintained.

Photo by Nikoline Arns on Unsplash