Preparing for Your Grandbaby’s Arrival: A Guide for Grandparents
Welcoming a grandbaby into the family is an exciting and joyful time! As a grandparent, you may want to prepare your home and refresh your caregiving skills to ensure you're ready to help and bond with your newest little family member. Here’s a quick guide to get started:
Refreshing Your Caregiving Know-How
Many things may have changed since you cared for your own children, so it’s helpful to brush up on modern parenting techniques and safety recommendations:
- Infant CPR & First Aid: Consider taking a class to refresh your knowledge of CPR and first aid for infants in case of emergencies.
- Safe Sleep Practices: Follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines—place the baby on their back to sleep, use a firm mattress, and avoid blankets, pillows, or stuffed toys in the crib. One baby item that I have found as a wonderful addition
- is the "Nanit' https://amzn.to/3KDRaIj This devise give parents and grandparents the peace of mind while their baby sleeps (review for yourself)
- I found until my granddaughter was 19 months this pack and play worked wonderfully. I did have to purchase an additional mattress to be be able to have her sleep comfortably.
- Baby monitors have change drastically since my child was little. I was lucky and purchased a few items second hand.
I had two given to me and one I purchased (second hand). Each of the ones listed worked wonderfully.
https://amzn.to/42KslAy or https://amzn.to/3Iym7Nq
- Car Seat Safety: Learn how to properly install and use an infant car seat. Hospitals won’t allow babies to leave without one. I recommend this car seat (kind of pricey) This one I could not swing financially. My daughter has it and raves about it. (I recommend getting a car seat new if possible. Do your research.)
- Parenting Preferences: This is very important. Discuss the baby’s schedule, feeding choices, and other preferences with the parents to ensure you’re on the same page.
Preparing or your grandbaby’s arrival is a labor of love. By getting the right items, creating a safe environment, and updating your caregiving knowledge, you’ll be ready to support your family and enjoy your special role as a grandparent. This is such an exciting chapter—embrace it with open arms and a joyful heart! I have listed items I found as a grandparent that were very helpful and items that the parents really thought were a priority. I will continue to update this list. Please check back for updates
Essential Items to Have on Hand
- Diapering Supplies: Keep essentials like diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and a changing pad in a convenient spot. I am only recommending Millie Moon diapers for use at night time. My daughter and I agree on these for night time. They are very absorbent and non irritating. I have used all the other brands and I like some where my daughter prefers other brands. Diapers are an item that you need to try different brands and find the brands you like and work for your baby. Unless your grandchild is spending a great deal of time with you I recommend not buying in bulk. They grow so fast and you will be left with quite a few of the previous size diapers.
- Feeding Essentials: If the parents plan to bottle-feed, have bottles, a bottle warmer, and cleaning supplies ready. For breastfeeding support, consider a nursing pillow for comfort. This bottle sterilizer is wonderful. After spending hours at the sink washing bottles this was a nice relief.
- Baby Clothes and Blankets: A few outfits, onesies, and baby-friendly blankets for quick changes and snuggles.
- Basic Baby Gear: Items like a baby swing, bouncer, or play mat can help keep the little one entertained and comfortable.
- First Aid Items: Baby-safe thermometer, nail clippers, and any medications approved by the parents.
Preparing Your Home
Transforming your home into a baby-friendly space can make visits with your grandbaby more enjoyable and safe:
- Babyproofing: Cover outlets, secure furniture to walls, and remove small objects or choking hazards from reach.
- Cleanliness: Ensure surfaces are clean and sanitized, especially in areas where the baby will sleep, play, or eat.
- Comfortable Spaces: Set up a cozy, quiet area for diaper changes, feedings, and naps.
- Pet Safety: If you have pets, introduce them to the idea of a baby by playing recorded baby sounds or adjusting their behavior in advance.