For many, the role of grandparents is absolutely indispensable. Growing up, I was extremely close to my grandparents. I looked forward to and relished in the time that I got to spend with them. A day spent at grandma and grandpa’s house was an exciting day for me because I knew that I would be pampered and spoiled. Scientists have long held that “grandparents play an enormous role in children’s cognitive, behavioral, and social development.” With role models like these, it is impossible to ignore the huge part that grandparents play in our lives. As you and your grandparents get older, take some time to reflect on the time that you have spent with them. Grandparents deserve a big “thank-you” for all of the things they have done throughout the years. Thank your grandparents….

1. For Their Wisdom

American humorist Sam Levenson once said, “the reason grandparents and grandchildren get along so well is that they have a common enemy.”

Has your mom been getting on your nerves lately or stressing you out? Talk to your grandmother. She raised your mom, so she will know the best way to diffuse and deal with a difficult situation. Your grandparents have been on earth way longer than you have and have seen it all. For me, my grandparents are often my best source of advice and wisdom because they have decades of experience to pull from.

2. For Spoiling You

Who doesn’t like to be spoiled every once in a while? Even though you didn’t need it at the time, you could always count on grandma and grandpa to get you that doll or play set that your parents refused to get you.

3. For Their Cooking

Whenever I visit my grandparents’ house, I know that I’m in for a treat. My grandmother is a superb cook and likes to make everything from complete turkey dinners to blueberry pie. Thank your grandparents for making you eat that extra slice of cake--even though you said you were full. It was delicious, right? Yummy cake slices and the elaborate dinners are things that I have come to miss while away at college.

4. For Their Support

If someone ever says something derogatory, your grandparents are always there to pick you right back up. Nothing feels as good as a grandparent's support. Thank your grandparents for always believing that you could do anything in the world—and giving you a little ego boost when you needed it the most.

5. For Their Whimsy

Although I am getting older and maturing, visiting my grandparents never fails to make me feel like a kid again. Whenever I visit, my grandpa offers me a seat next to him on the couch to watch golf on TV—something that we did together when I was younger. He also insists on walking to the local dessert shop on a hot day to have a treat. Thank your grandparents for this. No matter how old and mature you may feel, know that you are never to old to have your grandparents take you out for an ice cream cone.

6. For Humbling You

No one can put you in your place quite like grandparents can. At a family gathering where you bring a newly-acquired significant other? Your grandparents will suddenly "remember" the story of when they had to put you on one of those child leashes or when you threw a horrible temper tantrum in the middle of the supermarket. Thank your grandparents for always humbling you and reminding you where you came from.