I’ve seen some pretty awesome grandparents in action this summer. These sometimes unsung heroes support couples and families in crucial ways.

1) Taking over raising grandkids, bringing much needed stability and love to a difficult situation

2) Bringing grandkids with them to work a fireworks stand so they learn how to volunteer in their community

3) Baking chocolate chip cookies weekly or even twice a week for a 20 something aged grandchild

4) Keeping grandkids for a weekend or even a week so the parents can have a much needed couples getaway

5) Helping pay for college

6) Helping out with a sick child

7) Providing a safe place for a parent and kids to stay for a few days while things at home cool off

8) Going on a road trip with the grandkids

9) Providing money when someone is in a bind

10) Providing emotional support to a parent so they can be a better parent during a difficult patch

Grandparents can be an incredible resource for a family. When I do a psychological interview, I have learned to ask about the role of grandparents and other caring adults in someone’s life. I always hope that if things were tough with mom or dad, there is a grandparent, aunt, or uncle who was a key and positive force in childhood.

Now I’m not saying that I don’t hear about challenging, damaging, or disappointing in-laws and parents – absolutely I do. They totally exist. However, some of you out there have real goldmines of support from family.

So, this August, if you find yourself in the fortunate position of enjoying family support as you head back to school, I encourage you to express your appreciation directly and enthusiastically to those grandparents and other family in your life who help things run a little more smoothly.

Stay cool out there!