Mexican grandparents pass down centuries of wisdom
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Across Mexico, grandparents continue to share traditional beliefs and practices with younger generations, reinforcing family bonds and cultural heritage.
Since 1983, Mexico has celebrated Grandparents’ Day to acknowledge their contributions to families and communities. Grandparents frequently provide childcare for working parents, with approximately 30% of Mexican children receiving care from them. These elders are also keepers of a wealth of folk wisdom, encompassing advice on pregnancy, food, health, and everyday life.
For example, some believe a pregnant woman should wear a safety pin to protect her baby during an eclipse, while others advise rubbing tomato on a baby’s head to encourage curly hair growth. Many traditions relate to food, like avoiding watermelon at night because it’s hard to digest or scolding fruit trees to make them bear more fruit. Beyond practical advice, grandparents share beliefs about the supernatural.
People might believe red lights in the sky signal witches, or that spitting mezcal on someone’s face can cure a condition called espanto, a fright-related illness. These beliefs, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring role of grandparents in shaping family life.
