Grandparents often play an immensely special role in the lives of children. Those who are lucky enough to have their grandparents around may have a wise best friend, a comforting protector, a wonderful cook, or an indulgent partner-in-crime. But many grandparents do not get to experience a close relationship with their grandchildren, and this can have an impact on all generations of the family.

These grandparents are the subject of research by Professor Margaret Sims from the University of New England, who has produced a film exploring the importance of grandparent-grandchild relationships.

Professor Sims first got the idea for a study of grandparents who do not get to spend time with their grandchildren when she gave a talk about the importance of grandparent relationships for children.

“After the talk several people approached me to say that, while they understood what I was saying about the importance of children having close relationships with their grandparents, it was difficult to develop such relationships when you never saw your grandchildren,” Professor Sims said.

“So a research project was born, and grandparents were recruited to participate in in-depth, conversational interviews. In all 50 grandparents were interviewed, including one great grandmother.

“A live play performance was developed based on some of the grandparents’ stories, and from there we created a film, which will be launched in Armidale to coincide with Grandparent’s Day on October 20.”

The ‘Celebrating Grandparenting’ event will take place at the Armidale Ex-Services Club, and will include lunch, a short talk on the importance of grandparent-grandchild relationships by Professor Sims. There will be musical entertainment as well as the launch of the film entitled Our Absent Grandchildren.

All grandparents, family members and professionals are invited to attend.

Time and place: Monday 20 October 2014 at 12:00 in the Auditorium of the Armidale Ex-Services Club. Tickets cost $15 ($10 concession) and include a hot lunch. All are welcome.

Booking: Armidale Ex-Services Club – phone 02) 6776 0800

For more information please contact Professor Margaret Sims:
email: Margaret.sims@une.edu.au