The Experience of Grandparenting Young Children

This study examines the experience of grandparents providing regular childcare to their young grandchildren in China. Due to unique cultural and social factors, regular childcare provided by grandparents is becoming increasingly common in China. Unfortunately, published research on this topic does not provide a sufficient understanding of the experiences of grandparents who provide the regular care and the impact this has on their life. A qualitative, cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban village setting in Changsha China, where participants (N = 11) were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were collected between April 2019 and June 2019 and thematically analyzed using a seven-step modified procedure established by Colaizzi. Three key themes were identified: (1) Dominant factors motivating grandparenting; (2) Sweet burden of grandparenting; and, (3) Unmet needs. Study findings showed that while the Chinese grandparents perceived value and benefits to providing regular childcare, there are also significant challenges that need to be addressed. Interventions at a household and community level can be implemented to improve their childcare role.