TEA PARTY: Alan Stuart has daily interaction with his granddaughters Alexa, 7, left, and Jasmine, 10, right. – Picture by Jonathan Carroll
A growing number of Hunter grandfathers ruling the roost when it comes to childcare are the focus of a new University of Newcastle study.
Researchers want to know how grandparents, especially men, are dealing with the responsibility and what it means for families.
What role do grandparents play in your family? Comment below.
The university’s Family Action Centre wants to interview grandparents involved in the life of a primary school-aged grandchild, be it through weekend visits or childcare.
‘‘What we’re looking at is just identifying their expectations ... their well-being, and how their early father experiences shape their roles as grandfathers,’’ senior researcher Jennifer St George said.
Study participant Alan Stuart and wife Rita, of Lambton, have daily involvement with granddaughters Jasmine, 10, and Alexa, 7, who live next door.
‘‘Our lives would be much poorer if they weren’t involved with us,’’ Mr Stuart said.
For study information phone 4921 6690.
