Lauren Newton has opened up about the profound impact her parents, Patti and the late Bert Newton, have had as grandparents.
In a moving tribute shared to New Idea, Lauren said watching her parents step into the role of grandparents has been “a joy” – not just for her six children, but for herself as a mother navigating the highs and lows of parenting.
“Life with children brings so much joy, but can also challenge us in ways we didn’t know were possible,” she wrote.
“A support network is vital, and sometimes the most important assistance comes from grandparents.”
Lauren admitted that while she always knew Patti and Bert would love being grandparents, she “never imagined just how important their role was for the children and me.”
“We’ve really needed the backup and support, and I’ve seen how special their relationship is with the kids,” she said.
“It’s not so much about them babysitting, more about their involvement in our lives and the knowledge and love that they share.”
Lauren described her parents as vibrant and deeply involved grandparents who juggled both work commitments and their family.
“My parents continued to work and still made time to see us every day,” she said.
“Grandparents, along with having the experience and knowledge that comes with age, also have a better sense of what’s important.”
Lauren recalled how one of the unique joys for her children was being able to watch “Nan and Poppy on stage” and know “they’ll also be popping over for dinner later.”
While she still mourns the loss of her father, who passed away on the 30th of October 2021, Lauren finds comfort in the lasting memories and presence he left behind.
“As sad as I am that my younger kids only had a short amount of time with my dad, it gives me comfort that his presence was so great that he’s still talked about every day.”
She also praised her mum, Patti, for the close bond she continues to build with her grandchildren.
“Mum is very close with the kids and, as they get older, I can see a deeper friendship developing,” she said.
“She’s like a second mother to them, but with more patience and a better stocked fridge!”
Lauren shared a sweet reminder that grandparents should not be taken for granted.
“I hate hearing stories of them being taken advantage of,” she said. “Their involvement should be based on their lifestyle. I’m fortunate that both my parents and Matt’s were able to be involved in our children’s lives. That’s not always the case, for many reasons.”
Now, with both her and husband Matt Welsh’s fathers having passed, Lauren feels grateful that their children had the chance to be guided by the “love from their grandparents.”
Images: Instagram
