When the Grandchildren Come Over
The things worth keeping at your place, so a visit can start the minute they arrive. When the books are in the same basket and the step stool is already in front of the sink, the children know where everything is. Before long, your house starts to feel like theirs too.
These are suggestions to get you inspired, not a complete list, and should not be taken as my endorsement of any product. When you make a purchase from one of my links, I am paid a small commission. It won’t make me wealthy, but it will help support the continued publication of my website and newsletters. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Parents arrive with a diaper bag, a change of clothes and a favourite stuffy. Everything else is up to you. A few things kept at your house mean nobody has to pack the high chair or remember the night light, and the children walk in to find their things exactly where they left them.
You won’t need all of it. Pick whatever suits your family’s style of visiting.
Many of these items also make great gifts, for the grandchildren or for their parents.
Essentials
A pack and play with a change tableA place for naps, with a change table on top for diapers. It folds up for the closet between visits.
A high chair that folds awayA proper seat at the table for the littlest one, and it tucks into a closet when they go home.
A step stool for the bathroomSo they can reach the sink to wash their hands on their own.
- Diapers and wipes
A small supply tucked in the closet, so a forgotten diaper bag is no emergency.
- A white noise machine and night light
For the spare room, so a strange house is less strange at night. Steady white noise also covers the creaks and voices of a house that is still awake.
- Outlet covers and cabinet latches
If toddlers visit, a few minutes with these makes the whole visit easier.
Books
A basket of books that stays putBattery-freeA few favourites they can count on finding every time.
Fun
Honeycombs, a matching gameBattery-freeLay a tile, match a picture, and keep the hive growing. The box says ages 6 and up, but younger children enjoy it too.
Rack-O, a classic card gameBattery-freeMany grandparents will remember this one. Put the cards in your rack in order, lowest to highest, before anyone else does. The box says ages 8 and up.
Hand puppets and a puppet theatreBattery-freeBehind the curtain, even a shy grandchild has plenty to say.
A tea setBattery-freePour, stir, pass the sugar, and do it all again. A little set for tea parties at the kitchen table.
Tray not included.
A play tentBattery-freeA hideaway of their own, for stories, snacks and secret plans.
This version is no longer available.
- A puzzle on the goBattery-free
A puzzle left half done invites anyone passing to add a piece.
- A games shelfBattery-free
Pick a few classic games, the ones you grew up with, and give them a permanent home at your house.