Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word and phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks.

The role of grandparents
The need for a family in which close relatives provide care and continuity is a very basic one. Psychologists believe that grandparents played a key role in the development of early societies, and there is evidence that children whose grandmothers were still alive (26) _____ a much better chance of surviving into adulthood. In modern times, parents continue to rely on grandparents for practical support. For example, they are often the (27) _____ emergency contact for schools if a child's parents are working or otherwise unavailable. Although (28) _____close relatives such as aunts and uncles may also help, it is widely accepted that the emotional bond and stability provided by grandparents facilitates a child's emotional adjustment. This is particularly important during times which put family unity at risk.
(29) _____ if a husband's parents do not have a good relationship with their daughter- in-law, the close bond between grandparents and grandchildren may be threatened. The relationship (30) _____ grandparents have with their grandchildren can also be affected by the divorce and sometimes remarriage of the parent generation.