Amazon finds: Grandparent’s survival guide
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Editor’s Note: Staff writer Kim polled our community of CityMoms on what items they felt were total “must-haves” when sending kids of all ages for a visit with grandparents. You’ll want to bookmark and share this one…
Hello Grandparents! We know, hosting grandkids can be a ton of fun, but odds are you’ve long since purged kid-friendly stuff around your house. Here are the things mamas in our community have found helpful to have on hand for a weekend, overnight, or even just an afternoon. (BONUS: It’s broken out by age!)
Or - just go straight to our curated Amazon list and pick-up what you need!
Babies
When it comes to infants, the focus is sweet and simple, think: Cuddles, bottles, and sleep.
Boppy: For extended snuggles, our parents love having a Boppy. You can put it around your waist or at your side and get comfortable while smelling that sweet baby's head.
Bottle warmer: If the baby is bottle-fed, we recommend having a bottle warmer on hand to take the guesswork out of how long to warm a bottle. This little investment can be used through the whole first year and takes the stress out of prep.
High-chair: A place for babies to sit when they are old enough to chow down is so much easier than traditional high chairs are great, but a space-saving option like this one might be more practical to get in and out of your space.
Bonus: A convertible chair can be used well into the toddler years.
Pack N’ Play: This portable crib is multifunctional, safe, and portable, so you can go from playing in the living room to napping in a bedroom in a snap!
Black-out curtains: Babies sleep best in darkened spaces, and black-out curtains are incredibly helpful in keeping the baby's sleep environment consistent with home.
Pro Tip: These are great for all ages, trust us, when the teens come to stay, they’ll appreciate a cave to snooze in.
Take the fun outside with…an umbrella stroller, sun hat, baby sunscreen, and a splash mat.
BABY DAYS OTW?
Toddlers
These wild ones are up for an adventure and very particular: Think exploration, consistency, and accessibility.
Step stools: Give your toddler a sense of independence when potty training, helping with cooking projects, or lending a hand with everyday tasks (trust us, no one loves to “help” more than a toddler).
Bathtime: Toddlers are sweet and sticky! Ask about what soap your grandchild uses at home and grab some bath toys to keep them busy.
Potty seat: A portable potty seat (and that step stool) are helpful in the potty-training years. Take it to the next level and see if they have your toddler’s favorite character.
Simple toys and books: This is where novelty is welcome! Toddlers love exploring new, simple toys, like blocks for building and smashing. Puzzles with big knobs or locks can be great for independent play or collaborative play. Board books are great for this age group, and we love daubers for toddlers to get a little creative without all the mess.
Sippy cups, utensils, and plates: This was a big one for the parents we polled, and we understand why! Having the same or similar cups, plates, and utensils removes a barrier during mealtimes for lots of kids. Toddlers like consistency and might eat one more bite if it’s on the “right blue plate!”
Snacks: Have a little basket of mama-approved snacks in your pantry or on the counter for easy access when your grandchild is over. Think of things like goldfish, small oranges, or veggie straws. If you don’t know what they like, ask.
Get some sun with…a wagon, tricycle, bubbles or bubble machine, sidewalk chalk, or a sprinkler splash pad!
GRANDKIDS ON THE WAY?
Don’t panic, we’ve got the last-minute day out fun you need on this handy printable - like The Children’s Museum, Eiteljorg, Teddy Bear Concerts and more!
School-age and Teens
Older grandkids are growing and have varied interests: Think personalization, comfort, and independence.
Snacks and reusable water bottles: Whew, kids at this age are growing rapidly and need well-balanced snacks and tons of water. Ask about their favorite eats, then have some extras on hand, as well as a few fun reusable water bottles for them to choose from.
Comfy pajamas or slippers: There’s nothing like being comfortable when staying in a different space, and PJs just to have at your house will feel extra special. Throw in a fluffy pillow or a Squishmallow, and they will feel cozy and at home.
Wi-fi password and universal charging cable: Okay we know you want their attention, but hear us out, staying connected to friends really is important at this age. Have a little sheet of paper with your wi-fi password, so you have easy access if they ask! Keep those mobile devices charged with a universal charging cable.
Toiletries: It’s easy to forget to pack things you have to run to the bathroom to grab, so here are some top toiletries to keep on hand: toothpaste, toothbrush, sample size soap, shampoo, and deodorant, hairbrush, and hair ties.
Games, Legos, and art supplies: Teach your grandkid a card game like euchre or grab your Uno cards. Pick from some of the classics (Monopoly Jr. or Ticket to Ride), or try collaborative games like Gnomes at Night or Friends and Neighbors: The Helping Game. Legos are great for solo time or collaboration with siblings. Simple art supplies like colored pencils and mandala coloring books or plain white paper are great for creative types.
BONUS: Vintage gaming systems. This isn’t a must, but if you have a Nintendo or N64 that you played back in the day, dust it off and show your grandkid who’s boss!
Bribe them outdoors by offering…basketballs, mitts, baseballs or softballs, soccer balls, or yard games like corn hole and ladder toss.
Tip: Encourage your grandkid to bring along their scooter, skateboard, or roller skates (along with the protective gear).
Safety
We can’t wrap up without ensuring your home is just as safe as it is fun.
Baby-proofing: When little ones are less mobile, the focus should be on reducing access to pets, choking hazards, and ensuring they are buckled properly in all highchairs, car seats, and strollers.
Mobile-baby-proofing: Once they get moving, you will quickly discover the endless possibilities for danger awaiting children in your home. Cover outlets, gate stairs, and anchor heavy furniture (seriously, do not underestimate the abilities of a curious, climbing toddler).
PSST…Print this handy checklist from the American Academy of Pediatrics to help you get started!
Our simplest tip…If you’re unsure what they need, ask! The more invitational you are to them, the more open they can be with you. If a pending visit from the littler members of your family has got you on edge, just remember: Openness and connection are the best gifts of all.
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