In the extended cast of characters surrounding a preschooler each person fills a particular role that is helpful to the development of the child. Fathers have their thing: a seemingly endless source of entertainment contrasted by a commanding voice and authority presence. Grandparents manage to somehow amaze a child whilst being amazed by him/her. The relationship of grandparent to grandchild underscores the intriguing juxtaposition of life at the beginning, against life at the end of the journey. In either case, fathers and grandmothers and grandfathers have a lot to offer the preschool-aged child.
Daddies are the ultimate playthings. At my own house, whenever mommy is tired and worn from a day's work, I step in with my own second-wind burst of energy. My son and I play until exhausted, winding him down for the day and bonding along the way. This is the one role that mom seldom has the energy for. This allows me to foster a relationship that in no way negates that of mother and son, but rather distinguishes itself from it. In this way, being a father means being a unique part of the child's life. Also, the average adult male has the advantage of physical strength and a commanding voice, which can be used effectively to anchor a positive sense of authority that stands in unison with the authority of mommy. No doubt, ever y child knows that mother means business and that when daddy gets serious it must be a really big deal.
Likewise, children find a special bond with their grandmothers and grandfathers. In the case of my son, his granddaddy (as he calls my father-in-law) is another source of fun. This one is older, and kindly, and has a big fishing boat. Not unlike the role of daddy, granddaddy gets to be maximal fun most of the time. On occasion, his seniority, his gray features, and consummate authority get to show their value.
Grandma, on the other hand, is another distinct, unique role in the life of the child. In the case of my own mother and son, she is a never ending source of wholesome meals, new toys, and unending patience. It is as though a woman of her vantage point in life has all the time in the world for a young child. Even his most obnoxious, even insolent, conduct seems to never faze her even slightly. Grandmothers are the sources of sweet things and sweetness, and perhaps the most time-tested and patient relation of all.
Mommy may be the light of every child's eyes, but dads and grandparents have their own respective niches. Fathers are far more than just play things; they are continual companions and strong figures of authority.
Grandparents are the kind, and sweet, way in which humanity views its beginning from the perspective of its end, with amazement. All of these assorted roles are beneficial to your child, and are far from "second fiddle," because a child who has a close father and close grandparents is a happy child.
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