Episode 29: Childhood Changes: Keeping up with the Times

Welcome to "The Grand Balance," where host grandmas explore the intersection of work, family, and the evolving challenges faced by grandparents. In this episode, Sharon and Angela shed light on the dramatic biological and psychological shifts observed in children over the past three decades. They discuss the early onset of puberty, the impact of body fat, stress, and environmental factors, and why it's crucial for grandparents to be informed.

The conversation also touches on contemporary concerns like children's decreasing sleep hours, increased screen time, and the resulting health impacts such as nearsightedness and reduced grip strength. They address social changes, such as declining birth rates leading to smaller households and how these shifts affect children's social skills and reliance on adult support.

Further, the podcast delves into the paradox of modern youth experiencing "delayed adulting," staying home longer due to economic pressures and societal demands for higher education. Sharon and Angela emphasize the importance of grandparents playing a supportive role in their grandchildren's lives by providing stability amidst these rapid changes.