Extended Family Parenting: Why Kids Can’t Do Without Aunts & Uncles

In the modern world of parenting, parents sometimes forget the value of extended family members in raising children, particularly the roles played by awesome aunts and incredible uncles. But as Mother's Day looms, we'll give aunts (and uncles on Father's Day) worldwide a shout out in accepting the challenge of helping parents in their responsibilities in parenting.

Living in the post-nuclear age means that majority of families with kids have both parents at work. With that said, parents have much greater need for extended family in raising children.

Why Extended Family Parenting Is Important

The role of parents is vital in every kid's growth and development. But did you know the role of extended family is also significant in parenting? Well, through aunts and uncles, children can have some good adult influences in their lives, in addition to parents, P&G Everyday notes.

"Aunts and uncles are important, because they offer kids the chance to have a close relationship with an adult who doesn't have the same set of expectations as Mom and Dad," clinical psychologist Dr. Susan Bartell said.

Why Aunts And Uncles Are The Ultimate Wingwomen and Wingmen Of Modern Parenting

In modern parenting, aunts and uncles are the ultimate wingwomen and wingmen of parents. The reason? Well, let's just say they are always there, not only giving advices but always got your backs, as per Stuff.

Aunts and uncles are also committed to love and look after kids. When parents are not enough, children need a spare or a quasi-third parent and that's where super aunts and uncles come in.

The most obvious role, however, of an aunt or uncle is being a parent's helper and go-to person, My Family Digest learns. With that said, they are indeed an important part of a nuclear family.

Why Kids Can't Do Without Aunts And Uncles

In addition, aunts and uncles are there for their nieces and nephews but not to constantly remind or nag them about how to chew their foods, wipe their faces, keep an eye on their table manners or command them to do their homework or household chores. They serve as positive role models, who children can depend on in cases when they don't feel comfortable confiding in their parents.

Aunts and uncles also spoils kids in a way a parent can't or shouldn't. They usually fill in where parents can't or don't want to. Lastly, aunts and uncles are both cheerleaders who celebrate their successes and trusted confidantes they can turn to when they need the sound advice of a caring adult, Huffington Post reveals.

So, do you have aunts and uncles are awesome helpers of parenting? Share your thoughts below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.