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Advice
Ultimate Babysitting Checklist for Grandparents
August 18, 2018
Ah, grandparents - the most trustworthy of babysitters! How nice it is when grandparents are around to love on your child as their own so you can get out and spend some time with your partner or even by yourself. While it’s easy to assume grandparents know the ropes, be sure that they are aware of your child’s specific needs before you go out, and don’t be afraid of making your wishes known, especially if grandma uses the, “I’ve done this before,” card.
Here are the basics to not only explain verbally but also have written out:
- Where you’re going
- Name of venue, phone number, and address.
- How to reach you
- Your number, as well as your partner or someone else with you in case something happens to your phone.
- When you’ll be home
- Let them know the time they should expect you to be home so they aren't wondering.
- Emergency contact
- Include name, phone number, and relationship to you.
- Neighbor contact
- In case the emergency contact is far away or unavailable and immediate assistance is necessary. Be sure to specify which neighbor and include their address.
- Allergy/feeding instructions
- Some grandparents have their own opinions about formula, when babies should eat solids, etc. so be very specific about what your baby should eat and how much, as well as the method (bottle, sippy cup, etc.)
- Nearest ER/Urgent Care
- Phone number, address, and if grandparents aren’t savvy with their phones, printed out directions would be also useful to include.
- Car seat instructions
- Car seat recommendations have changed over the past few decades, so these are also very important instructions to specify.
- Bath instructions
- Water temperature, the use of toys, soaps, shampoos, etc. should also be included so nothing is left to chance.
- Bedtime routine
- When you’re not around you want baby to feel as comfortable as possible, so show the grandparents the bedtime routine so bedtime goes smoothly
- How to calm your baby
- Whether it be a pacifier, a swing, swaddling, or soft music, give the grandparents some calming mechanisms in case baby gets upset while you’re away.