Preparing the child for a visit to the grandparents

Tip 1:
Children are well aware of the special position they have with their grandparents. So that the stay doesn’t get out of hand, you should make it clear to your child that grandma and grandpa also have rules to follow. Even if these may be more relaxed than at home – there is no fool’s freedom with the grandparents either.

Tip 2:
Establish some ground rules together with the children and the grandparents, if necessary by telephone. In this way, your child and also grandma and grandpa can adapt and prepare better for it.

Tip 3:
Let the child choose and pack some toys, but keep an eye on them as you go. It is possible that the grandparents do not have enough toys to keep their child occupied for longer. Also make sure that there are some games that your child can play with during the grandparents’ lunch break or otherwise.
If your child is to spend the night with their grandparents, they will certainly need a few favorite pieces from home. The cuddly toy, maybe your own pillow or the story book that sounds so wonderfully familiar from home. A photo of mom and dad will ease any homesickness.

Tip 4:
Assure your child that they can always reach you in an emergency and keep this promise.

Tip 5:
In a conversation before visiting grandma and grandpa, it is helpful to also explain the grandparents’ boundaries. You may not be as resilient as your child is used to from you. Show your child when it makes sense to be considerate. For example, with the volume while playing or jumping on the trampoline in the amusement park.

Tip 6:
For longer stays, like vacations with grandma and grandpa, it’s fun to pack the bag together with the child. Ask your child and grandparents what’s on the program and pack accordingly. If you are going to the swimming pool, think of your swimming trunks or bathing suit. Old things for the garden are important, but so are some good clothes. A visit to the ice cream parlor, the puppet theater or the museum may be planned. Do you need slippers?

Tip 7:
Depending on your child’s age and understanding, you can prepare them for their tasks. For example: When you are with grandma and grandpa, think about your medication in the evening. Or: Make sure you don’t eat peanuts because you’re allergic to them. Remind your grandparents of that.

Tip 8:
Feel free to reach into the treasure chest of your own experiences and make the forthcoming visit to the grandparents palatable to your child. Tell us about your adventures and experiences and what great episodes you experienced yourself.

Tip 9:
Give your child the opportunity to ask questions about the upcoming visit. In this way, you can get rid of your child’s insecurities in advance. But answer the questions really openly and honestly. If you lie, your child will be suspicious of future visits to grandma and grandpa.

Tip 10:
There are very nice books for children on the subject of “visiting the grandparents” for all ages available in stores. They are a good preparation for the time with grandma and grandpa and also offer nice hours together with the child in advance. Your child may be asking questions about the topic that you haven’t even thought of.

For children who spend more time with grandma and grandpa, the anticipation of the visit remains exciting even without much preparation by the parents.