Every couple aspires to live a separate, independent life with their children under one roof. The concept of living with an extended family is getting blurred day by day as most of the nuclear families now prefer living alone. The concept of living with an extended family might seem daunting in the beginning but it has its own benefits. Earlier, people used to rejoice living with their extended families under a single roof but now they seem to have changed their lifestyles. When both parents are working to make the ends meet for their children, they do not find enough time to spend with their children. This way the children, especially teens, who are on the verge of developing into adults, feel neglected and ignored. Having an extended family around provides children with comfort and company so they do not feel alone even if their parents are not with them.

Basically, an extended family comprises of multiple generations living together under the same roof. This type of family setup extends beyond a nuclear family which comprises of a father, a mother, and their kids. Some extended families may also include uncles, aunts, and cousins who share the same household. This type of culture was quite common earlier but now the lifestyles have changed to some extent. The best part about living with an extended family is that it doesn’t only provide support to the parents but also helps their kids in various ways. Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of living with an extended family.

Developing Strong Family Bonds

Families who are a part of extended families experience emotional bonding as long as they’re living in the same place. They might not achieve this bonding if they are living further apart. Living with an extended family encourages you to spend more time with them and develop a strong family bond with all the family members.

Providing Support to Childcare

When you have adult family members around, especially grandparents, you will notice a lot of workload will be taken off your shoulders. Having an extended family saves on childcare support and also encourages your children to spend some quality time with their grandparents. By growing up with an extended family, children will develop care and respect for their elders. Similarly, grandparents will also stay active while keeping up with the children’s school work and other activities.

Offering Financial Support

One of the primary benefits of living with an extended family is that it reduces the family’s financial strain as it’s more affordable option. Usually, adult children move back in with their parents as soon as they start earning. They also help their parents save money so they can buy their own house. Grandparents, especially who’re healthy and willing, also take care of preteens and teens and offer babysitting services, saving the parents from the significant cost of childcare support.

Providing Companionship

Another benefit of having an extended family under the same roof is that all the family members can get time to spend with their loved ones. Elderly parents might feel lonely when they do not have their closed ones around them but living closely with their family members can make them feel happy. Every member of the house can seek companionship from the other, sharing their worries, concerns, and responsibilities with them. While living with an extended family, every family members get a chance to witness each other’s daily lives.