Believe it or not, summer is almost at an end. Soon the pool days and popsicles will transition into cozy afternoons at home and filled backpacks.
Before the season changes into one of the busiest times of the year, take 30 minutes to reset and get ready for the new season ahead. A few simple updates now can make visits easier, help parents feel more supported, and ensure you’re ready for grandkids of every age.
Kids grow and change quickly. Add some new toys to match their new interests or to keep their attention!
My kids love this kids digital camera to take photos of their favorite things. See your home through their eyes.
Throw away dried-out markers, broken crayons, and empty glue sticks. A fresh set of art supplies is an easy way to encourage creativity on rainy afternoons or quiet mornings. Don’t forget to get a mess-free coloring set so their drawings don’t ruin your couch!
When birthdays, the first day of school, or “just because” moments come around, you’ll always be ready to send something special. We love this kids animal greeting card set filled with fun animal facts and jokes. Kids of all ages will enjoy receiving them and it can be something fun to laugh about together!
Freshly washed throw blankets make story time, movie nights, and afternoon naps even cozier as the weather begins to cool.
If you’re the one who travels to see your grandchildren, use this time to refresh your travel bag.
Keep a few essentials packed and ready, such as a travel bag to bring a few special goodies to the kids. Plus its collapsible so if you no longer need it on the way home after it is emptied of the kids’ goodies, just fold it up and put it back in your suitcase!
Toss expired snacks and make room for family favorites. Be sure to check with parents for the kids’ favorite snacks. You want to be sure they are parent approved! Store them here so you always know where to find them! You can even label them with each grandkid’s name.
A batch of muffins, soup, or cookie dough makes everyday visits feel a little more special and saves time on busy days. Make them now while you have the extra time! Don’t forget to get some new freezer safe tupperware so your flavors will safely last until the next visit!
Keep good coffee, sparkling water, and a simple snack on hand for your adult children, too. Making parents feel welcome often means you’ll enjoy even more time with your grandkids.
Test smoke detector batteries, replace worn outlet covers, and make sure medications and cleaning supplies are safely stored. We recommend this child proofing kit to help get your house safe and ready to go.
Children grow quickly.
Take a few minutes to check things like:
Diapers or pull-ups: Do you have their correct size?
Cups or bottles: Do you know what types they like to use now?
Sleeping spaces: Is this still a safe place for them to sleep? Do you have a pack and play?
Before your next visit, ask:
“Is there anything new we should know?”
Maybe bedtime has changed. Maybe there’s a new allergy, favorite snack, or activity they’re excited about.
Birthdays, pumpkin patch visits, and family dinners always seem to arrive faster than expected. Putting them on your calendar now makes it easier to show up later.
Whatever season of life your family is in now, remember that small changes today can lead to some of your family’s favorite memories this fall.
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