I recently heard a saying that Grandmothers were the Librarians of the family. They are the keepers of our stories. This got me thinking about the time our children spend with their grandparents. We live about a 10-hour drive without stops from our closest family. Family is important to us, and we try to see them as often as possible. Regardless of how often we visit, being away from home can still be stressful. What can make staying with Grandparents or family easier?
It starts with the house
There is nowhere like home. Staying with family can be wonderful, but like any travel, while enjoyable can still bring with it a level of stress. Different sleeping arrangements, beds, foods, and a new routine. Some things that make a world of difference with my children make them feel comfortable wherever we go.
Use Blackout Curtains When Staying with Grandparents
My kids are up with the sun, which is why their bedrooms are as dark as I can get them at home. They sleep better and longer in a dark room or at least in a room where the light doesn’t change with the passing of the hours. This is no exception when we are away from home—having blackout curtains in the room where the kids sleep makes for better moods, vacations, and visits.
If blackout curtains are out of the question, other options could be to hang something from the rod to help darken the room. Pressing tin foil in the windows may not look as nice, but it can effectively block the light. Sometimes none of these are possible; if that is the case, maybe think about sending them to bed a little earlier or planning a nap that will allow them to catch up on some extra sleep.
Noise Makers
While sleeping in someone else’s home, there are always different night noises. The walls may be thinner; the heater may make different sounds, nighttime bathroom breaks, or all the adults may be in the next room catching up. A noisemaker can drown out those sounds and make a huge difference in how often they wake up. We have used this one.
Feeling Safe Away From Home
For every single trip we take, our kids bring their pillow, one favorite stuffed animal, and their blanket. Those three special things give them a sense of security and make them feel more comfortable in their new environment.
While we try and make the room as dark as possible to guard against changing light of the sun setting and rising, a faint constant light source just bright enough for them to see their surroundings in both their room and the bathroom takes away some of the fear that comes with sleeping in a new location. We like these night lights.
Food while Staying with Grandparents
Food is always a big deal for young children when they are away from home. Our youngest, in particular, is extremely picky, while our oldest is happy to try almost anything. That being said, when away from home, an added stress for both parents and children: Will the kids eat? Will my parents make me eat something I don’t like? Try to remember you are on vacation and have some foods that you know they will like.
Additionally, in our house, we sometimes have to learn to pick our battles. While I am on vacation, is making my youngest eat something just to clear his plate a sword I’m willing to fall on? Probably not. Everyone will be happier when we try to give each other a little grace. Remember their favorite snacks and bring a box or two of their favorite mac n’ cheese.
Have Activities Planned While Staying with Grandparents
Our kids behave the best when we have things to keep them busy. Kids don’t like to sit around and just visit. Vacations would be a lot more relaxing if they did. Try to plan something for them to do in a kid-friendly environment. A big adventure could be the Zoo or a Children’s Museum. Simply going for a walk, to the pool, lake, hike, or the local park can also keep them entertained. Consider the mobility of the family members while also trying to ensure the kids can burn some energy. A little prior research into the surrounding area can find some fun activities.
Things to do at the house
If the grandparents aren’t mobile, bring along a board game the kids like to play or maybe cards. Younger kids can color or play with Play-Dough or blocks. If it’s time to cook dinner, try to let the kids can help. My daughter loves to assist in the kitchen. What can grandparents do with the kids? Fishing, cooking, crafts, cars? Our kids love going to see both sets of their grandparents, and it is because they/we plan things for the kids to do. Whether swimming, fishing, or helping bake cupcakes, we try to keep the kids busy while spending time together. We try to only use the TV at strategic times that will bring peace or a quick break.
In the end
In the end, the most important outcome of a visit with family is spending time together. The kids can get to know their family and learn past stories while building new memories. We hope this article has made visiting family away from home a little easier or made you think of something you otherwise might not have. If you enjoyed this article, check out our article, Travel Hacks to Try While on the Road.