According to recent research, four out of five children are cared for by a grandparent on a regular basis, one in four grandparents in the UK look after their grandchildren while the parents go out to work, and 60 per cent of childcare provision is carried out by grandparents.

Financial realities mean that many young mothers have to go out to work, and for some, asking the grandmother to look after the child or children is often the only option. And many grandparents feel they, too, have no option but to offer to do the childcare, full or part time.

But looking after a grandchild does not mean becoming house-bound. Most areas have playgroups and toddler groups, nursery-rhyme music groups, toy libraries and the like, meeting in church halls or similar venues.

They will have lots of toys to play with, and lots of other toddlers to play with as well. They are also useful places to meet others in a similar position.

But sometimes grandparents feel out of place among young mums.
The Grandparents' Association is the fastest-growing group in the country for grandparents. It offers help and advice, and in some parts of the country has set up 'Grandparent and Toddler' groups, to cater specifically for the age range. See the website www.grandparents-association.org.uk for more information.

They also help those who are looking after grandchildren full-time for absent or incapable parents, and offer mediation for those having problems over access to grandchildren - their advice line is 08454 349585.

The state offers grandparents limited resources when it comes to childcare.
It assumes that grandparents are always retired and care for grandchildren as a normal part of family life.

If the employer or college of the child's parents contributes to childcare costs, they may insist that the child is placed with a registered childcarer.

If this is the case there is no reason why the grandparent should not apply to become registered, and thus eligible for the payment. The process takes about three months, and involves a criminal record check, an Ofsted inspection of your home, and short courses in childminding and children's first-aid.

The National Childminding Association has details on www.ncma.org.uk/erol.html and a downloadable booklet on how to start.

Finally, if you are stuck for ideas for a rainy day, or for places to take your charges to on a sunny day, Granny Look www.grannylook.com is a website that offers links to suggestions for toys, activities, presents and events that might help to keep any grandchild occupied.