The Extension Education Association, a partner of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, recently hosted an educational program aimed at helping grandparents strengthen communication and promote healthy habits within their families. The session, titled Well Families, was presented by Gaye Farr of the West End EEA Club.
The program addressed the increasingly important role grandparents hold in modern households. As economic pressures, demanding work schedules and family instability continue to evolve, grandparents in Texas are stepping in at unprecedented rates. In 2021, more than 266,000 Texas grandparents were serving as primary or supporting caregivers for their grandchildren, according to state statistics — a number experts say has risen steadily over the past several years.
Organizers noted that grandparents often provide the stability that keeps families functioning. Many serve not only as caretakers, but also as mentors, disciplinarians, emotional anchors and, in some cases, the primary source of routine and structure. Their involvement can include everything from daily school pickups and meal preparation to managing doctor appointments, creating healthy habits and offering the calm, steady presence children often rely on.
The Well Families session explored the challenges grandparents may face in these roles, especially when parenting styles differ between generations. Participants examined two approaches: congruent parenting, which encourages consistency among all caregivers, and co-participation parenting, which promotes engaging in activities alongside children to model positive behaviors and create stronger bonds.
The program also stressed the importance of clear boundaries. Presenters highlighted that setting reasonable limits helps improve communication, reduce household stress and foster healthier behaviors for both children and caregivers. Boundaries are particularly important in multi-generation households where expectations and routines may vary widely.
Farr reviewed the four established parenting styles — authoritarian, authoritative, permissive and uninvolved — and discussed how each influences family dynamics. The session underscored authoritative parenting as the most effective approach, noting its balance of structure and warmth leads to better long-term outcomes for children, including greater confidence, emotional stability and improved academic performance.
Throughout the presentation, educators emphasized that grandparents often bring a unique blend of life experience, patience and perspective that can positively shape a child’s development. Whether they serve as occasional helpers or full-time guardians, grandparents play a critical role in nurturing family health and stability across Texas.
Those interested in joining the Extension Education Association or learning more about upcoming programs may contact Michelle Wright, distinguished extension agent for Family and Community Health in Austin County, at (979) 865-2072.
