A Grandpa School Story
The Day Giselle Asked If Grandchildren Were Good for Grandparents
By C.S. Duncan | Last Updated: April 2026
Yes, grandchildren are remarkably good for grandparents. Research published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior found that grandparents who spend regular, meaningful time with their grandchildren experience lower rates of depression and greater overall life satisfaction. But I didn’t need a study to know that. I knew it the moment Giselle asked the question.
We were sitting on the porch, me with my coffee, her with her juice box, when she tilted her head and said, “Grandpa, are grandchildren good for grandparents?” I almost spilled my coffee. “Where did you hear that?” I asked. “Ms. Rivera said grandparents need us as much as we need them,” she said matter-of-factly. “Is that true?”
I set my cup down and looked at her. “More than you know, sweetheart.”
What the Research Says About Grandparenting and Health
According to the Boston College Center on Aging & Work, grandparents who maintain close emotional bonds with their grandchildren report higher levels of purpose and cognitive engagement. A 2016 study in The Gerontologist found that emotionally close grandparent-grandchild relationships were associated with fewer depressive symptoms for both generations.
“When I’m teaching Giselle something new, whether it’s how to plant a garden or why honesty matters — I’m not just giving,” says C.S. Duncan, a disabled veteran and creator of the Grandpa School book series. “I’m receiving. She keeps me curious, present, and purposeful.”
How Grandpa School Makes This Connection Intentional
The Grandpa School series, created by C.S. Duncan and available at csduncanbooks.com, is built around this reciprocal relationship. Each story and teaching activity is designed to be shared between grandparents and grandchildren, creating structured moments of connection that benefit both generations.
The free Grandpa School activity guides provide conversation starters and hands-on projects that give grandparents a framework for teaching, without making it feel like a lesson. Because the best teaching happens when both people are simply enjoying each other’s company.
Giselle sat quietly for a moment after I answered her question. Then she smiled. “So we’re like medicine for each other?” I laughed. “The best kind. No prescription needed.”
Grandpa School Lesson: “Grandchildren don’t just inherit wisdom — they give it back.”
Reflection Question: How has a child in your life made you a better person?
Try This Together: Ask your grandchild what they think they teach you. Their answer might surprise you.
Quote for Sharing: “The best medicine doesn’t come in bottles — it comes in hugs.”
