En español | In the realm of family relationships, I've always wondered why aunts and uncles don't get more attention. Admittedly, I am perhaps more aware of this because I don't have kids of my own but am totally dedicated to my three nieces and two nephews, as well as honorary auntie to several close friends' children. This is one of the most important roles I play. And I know that my own aunts and uncles were enormous influences on my life.
See also: Be a Great Grandparent
If you've got children of your own, you provide your nieces and nephews with cousins, those family members who are like brothers and sisters, only nowhere near as annoying.
Aunts and uncles can foster a special family bond with nieces and nephews. — Rodrigo Alvarez-Icaza/Getty Images
But regardless of whether you've got kids, these are the kinds of roles that aunts and uncles can play:
• The "Cool" Adult. You have different life experiences than your nieces and nephews' parents, which makes you cool right off the bat. Free of the responsibility of the parenting role, you allow the kid in you to come out. When adults reflect back on their aunts and uncles, having fun with them is often among the top memories.
• Confidant and Trusted Adviser. Kids often say they can talk to aunts and uncles about things they are uncomfortable talking to their parents about. You can add a different perspective, and they may be open to telling you things and listening to your advice when they really need it but don't want to talk to parents — if they can trust you.
• Extra Provider. I hear a lot about aunts and uncles who provide "extras" for their nieces and nephews, such as an aunt who made doll clothes or provided spending money for a special trip; an uncle who paid for rock climbing lessons or bought a wedding dress. These extras can make nieces/nephews feel so special and can even shape their life experiences. You may also provide the extra finances to cover education, housing or important purchases for them.
• Role Model. These days, more than ever, children are influenced by media and friends — not always positive role models. You give your nieces and nephews alternative examples of family, career, relationships, hobbies and values. You will teach them more by how you live than you ever could by talking to them.
• Family Compadre. Because you have the same family — and you've known their parents all or most of your life — you might share their frustrations or understand their viewpoint more than anyone else does. Being familiar but somewhat outside the situation when conflicts with parents arise can be a plus. Kids may listen to you in a way they won't listen to their parents, and you may even be able to play a mediator or peacemaker role in the family.
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