How come we call our?

Question

How come we call our Aunt's and Uncle's Aunt Jane or Uncle john, but other members of our family we dont. Like we dont say Grandpa Ed or Mother in Law Louise?

Answer 1

I think all families develop their own conventions for family names.  There are many substitutes for Grandma and Grandpa, such as Nanu and PawPaw.  My children call one grandfather "Grandpa" and the other is "Pa."  But they also have fun nicknames--Uncle Dave is called U.D.

However, I think for Aunts and Uncles, it is a sign of respect and endearment to add Aunt and Uncle, and also a sign of family closeness to use the first name rather than something more formal.

Answer 2

Children from the time they can talk will name their grandparents.  It may be grandma and grandpa for one set of grandparents and grand mama and granddaddy for the second set of grandparents or nana and papa.  They do not need another name attached to it.

A mother in law is usually called by her first name or Mrs (her last name).  When the children are born they call the grandparents what the children call them.

An aunt and uncle do not have another name you can give them.  So to show love, respect and family you use the endearment Aunt Jane and Uncle John.