Going to Grandma and Grandpa’s house is a wonderful experience for children (errr…. for some I suppose, others may disagree!). Being around loving grandparents benefits children in so, so, so many wonderful ways. Getting support (help with the kids, quality time together, whatever!) from your own parents or in-laws is amazing for any family!
But let’s face it – Grandparent’s houses are not always set-up well for new grandkids. It has been a long time since they had wee ones to worry about running around the house and frankly, times have changed! We take a lot more safety precautions with our kids than our parents did with us, and there are so many new and different products to make life with little ones around easier and more efficient.
For those who will be spending lots of time with kids at grandparents houses (even for it’s for visiting far away verse down the street), it is nice to have that environment conducive to the health and happiness of young kids without wreaking havoc on grandma and papa’s style and space. Being in a house/space that doesn’t work well for families with young kids can be really tough – there is just so much to worry about and so much that just doesn’t work.
The recommendations below keep in mind that this house is not yours and this space will need to go back together as it was at the end of the day – you’ll find collapsible, portable, foldable, or space saving options for all things kids below!
Somewhere Comfortable to Sleep
For more on safe sleep options when traveling, visit my post here.
| For Babies & Toddlers |
| Graco Pack n’ Play |
| Folding Crib by Dream On Me |
| Lotus Travel Crib |
| Chicco Portable Crib |
| Dream on Me Travel Crib |
Somewhere Secure to Eat
| Space Saving High Chair from Fisher-Price |
| Booster Seat with Tray |
| Baby Fast Chair |
| Joovy Folding High Chair |
| SmartClean Chair Mate |
Somewhere Safe to Play
| Regalo My Play Deluxe Extra Large Portable Play Yard |
| Superyard Colorplay 8-Panel Play Yard |
| Baby Playpen Kids Activity Centre |
| Costzon Foldable Baby Playpen |
| BabySeater Portable Playard Playpen |
Room Darkening Options for Sleep
If your children are anything like mine, they need darkness to sleep!
If your babes will have their own room (honestly, a laundry room, walk-in closet, and bathroom all count when I say room…), consider using temporary blackout shades on the windows if need be:
| AmazonBasics Portable Baby Travel Window Blackout Blind Shades with Suction Cups |
| Jahoot Blackout Window Cling Film |
| BOBOTOGO Blackout Pleated Shade |
Easy Meal Gear
For more on mealtime must-haves, visit my post here.
Baby Proofing Products
For more on baby proofing your home, visit my post here.
| Easy to Install Cabinet and Drawer Locks |
| Electrical Outlet Covers |
| Cord Wind Ups |
| Sliding Cabinet Locks |
| Anti-Tip Furniture Straps |
| Corner Protectors |
| Toilet Lid Locks |
| Stove Knob Protectors |
Read On!
If you travel to visit Grandma and Grandpa – see my posts below for all things ‘families on the go’!
- Keep your House Secure while you Travel
- Traveling with Kids: Make Packing Easier for Family Trips
- Keeping Toddlers Entertained on Long Plane Rides
- Family Travel: 20 Easy Tips for Flying with Babies or Toddlers
- 8 Things You Need for Winter Family Travel
- How to Pack Your Car for a Road Trip with Kids: 8 Tips
- Everything You Need for Sleep While Traveling: Family Trips
- What to Expect while Traveling: Flying with Breast Milk
- Breast Milk Storage: 8 Ways to Keep Milk Cold and Protected at Home and On-The-Go