Did You Know There’s An Aunts and Uncles Day?
On July 26, the US celebrates World Aunts and Uncles Day as a tribute to the men and women who have become second parents to kids.
These days, the role of an aunt and uncle has evolved. Once seen as the sibling of a child’s mom or dad, the aunt and uncle have played bigger roles in raising a child in these times. And did you know that there’s a special day to celebrate it?
What is Aunts and Uncles Day?
Aunts and Uncles Day is celebrated every July 26 in the United States. According to National Today, it’s unclear how the celebration started. But just like any special day, people have been celebrating their sibling’s special day for a long time.
In a separate National Day article, Melanie Notkin of Savvy Auntie created Auntie’s Day as a way to commemorate the relationship between aunties and their nephews and nieces. Moreover, it honors those who have become aunties in their own right.
Aunts and uncles are often considered the second parents of the child. They become guardians and help raise children like their own when the mom or dad is not around. They have played different roles in pop culture as well. Some famous roles of an aunt or uncle are:
- Aunt May and Uncle Ben – Peter Parker’s relatives from Spider-Man
- Uncle Fester – The Addams Family
- Uncle Phil – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
- Aunt Hilda and Zelda – Sabrina The Teenage Witch
- Aunt Becky – Full House
Why is it fun to be an aunt or uncle?
As an aunt or uncle, you play a certain role in the child’s life. You can treat them to things that parents often hold back, take them out, play with them, and share hobbies and interests with them. You also shape their values just like their parents.
Like grandparents, aunties or uncles enjoy spoiling children. Some may frown on it but this is a privilege that second parents get to do despite their sibling’s objection.
Playing a big role in a child’s life
It takes a village to raise a child. And all members of the family play a role including aunties and uncles.
So when your kids get a chance to spend time with their aunties and uncles, let them be close. After all, they are not just your siblings but they have become second parents to your kids and have become part of their lives.
A child will always have a special bond with their parents. But their bond with their uncle or aunt is totally different because admit it or not, they can make you do things that you never know you can.
Check out more stories on Modern Parenting:
Tita Tips: 4 Handy Suggestions on Helping Raise a Kid
Peas In A Pod: The Best Thing About Raising Siblings Close In Age
How To Introduce Your Child To A New Sibling: Raising Good Ates and Kuyas
