The emotional moment of a toddler with his grandparents

Boston mother Emily Sutliff always knew that her parents, Betsy and Paul, would play a big role in her daughter Rory's life. Since Rory's arrival two and a half years ago, Betsy and Paul have lovingly cared for her several times a week – a bond that Sutliff couldn't wait for her daughter to experience.

But last month the doting grandparents decided to treat themselves to a well-deserved adventure in Italy. That made it the longest Rory had ever traveled without seeing her. Accordingly Peopleit was a reunion for eternity.

After four weeks of separation, the time had finally come: Sutliff took Rory with him to Betsy and Paul. She captured her daughter's pure joy as she sprinted towards her grandparents with her arms outstretched and shared it on TikTok.

@emkate32 The trio is reunited! #grandfathersoftiktok #grandfather #grandparents #grandfatherlove #grandparentsoftiktok #grandma #granddaughter ♬ BIRDS OF A FEATHER – Billie Eilish

Since being posted, the heartwarming clip has attracted over 1.6 million views, with viewers commenting on the unbreakable bond between grandparent and grandchild.

• “That’s exactly how grandparents should be! You can see how much they mean to each other.” – @grandmafan123
• “This little girl is so blessed to have this kind of love in her life.” – @heartofgoldmomma
• “I recently lost my grandma and it brought back so many great memories. What a beautiful connection.” – @nostalgic_dreamer

“A Connection I Underestimated”: The Power of a Grandparent Bond

It's easy to see why this moment resonated so much with viewers around the world. Emily said: “She is incredibly close to them and it was wonderful to witness that. I was so excited when I found out I was pregnant and having a child and that brings so much joy. But I think I may have underestimated how special it is to see the relationship she has with them.”

While Sutliff's story highlights the special bond that grandparents can have with their grandchildren, we know that not every family has grandparents who are nearby or actively involved. For families with different dynamics, other trusted adults—such as aunts, uncles, family friends, or community mentors—can bring many of the same emotional benefits to children.

The benefits of multigenerational connections

The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is not just heartwarming; it has lasting benefits for a child's development. Research shows that children with close relationships with their grandparents or other caregivers experience various emotional and social benefits that help them succeed. Here's how these connections enrich a child's life:

1. Increasing emotional well-being
   Children who have close bonds with their grandparents or older role models are more likely to experience positive emotional health. Studies have shown that these relationships can provide protection against stress and even reduce the likelihood of depression, especially as children get older.

   For example, a University of Oxford study found that children with involved grandparents had fewer emotional and behavioral problems. Grandparents provide a sense of security and continuity that can be comforting during the ups and downs of life.

2. Promote empathy and social skills
   Through interaction with grandparents, children learn important social skills, including empathy, patience and respect. Grandparents often bring different perspectives and stories from their lives, which can broaden a child's understanding of others.

   The American Grandparents Association emphasizes that grandchildren who spend time with their grandparents often develop a greater ability to understand different viewpoints, which strengthens their emotional intelligence.

3. Promote resilience and self-esteem
   Trusted adults such as grandparents or other older role models play a key role in building a child's confidence and resilience. Your unconditional support and encouragement can help children feel valued and capable, which in turn builds strong self-esteem. A Boston College study of grandparent and adolescent well-being found that close intergenerational relationships are associated with a reduction in depressive symptoms.
4. Preserve family traditions and values
   Many children gain a deep sense of identity through their grandparents, who often serve as keepers of family history and traditions. This connection helps children feel more rooted, gives them a stronger sense of where they come from, and anchors them in shared family values.

   The University of New Hampshire explains that grandparents' telling of family stories contributes to children's understanding of their heritage and cultural identity, which can be a source of pride and connection.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and ever-changing, grandparents give their children a unique gift: the ability to experience love, wisdom and a connection to tradition. The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren promotes well-being and growth and enriches both generations in many ways.

Viral TikTok shows why grandparents are a gift for children and parents alike

The reunion only lasted seconds, but for Rory, her grandparents and everyone watching, it was a reminder of the timeless love between generations.

Sources:

1. Grandparents contribute to the well-being of children. Oxford University. Grandparents contribute to the well-being of children.
2. The role of grandparents in the lives of young people. Wise diaries. The role of grandparents in the lives of young people.
3. Study strengthens the bond between grandparents and grandchildren. Boston College. Study strengthens the bond between grandparents and grandchildren.
4. Negotiate belonging. University of New Hampshire. Negotiating Belonging: Social Class Identity and the Lived Experiences of First-Generation College Students.