I have kids, and my kids love to stay at their grandparents often. So sometimes putting a bag together can leave me wondering what to bring. What will they want, need, or what will make the stay easier for their grandparents? There are more things to consider than just a pair of clothes. So here I have put together a guide to help you solve all those questions, quickly and easily.
Toiletries
When it comes to hygiene, it is very important to all. So lets not forget any must have items in this department. Which items are really needed and which ones should you bring? First off don’t forget the toothbrush and toothpaste, a small travel size is more ideal for shorter visits. Though sometimes you may skip this step if the grandparents already keep these items on hand for your child or children. Next would be a brush and/or comb. What would be more needed then that. Brushes are not good to share, so having your child bring their own is a good idea. Now for little girls be sure to put De-tangler in the bag. Making it easier for long hair and for the grandparent who fixes it. Also be sure to throw some hair things into a small baggy.
Clothes
Whats more must have then clothes? But what would be the right clothes and how many should you pack? I prefer to pack one play outfit so that way the child can play outside and no one will have to worry about nice clothes getting ruined. One nice outfit in case of a trip to the store or the grandparents decide to have guests. One pair of pajamas. Three pairs of underwear in case of any little accidents, depending on child’s age. A lite sweatshirt, now if it is cold where you live around this time of year a jacket would be ideal. Two pairs of socks, its always good to have more than one of each item in case of any little spills, tares, etc. Last, a pair of comfy slippers always make the child feel at home.
Favorites
Now all our kids tend to have favorite must have items. So lets be sure to pack these items also. Keeping the items at a medium to large range is probably a better idea. That way they do not loose them while being there. Be sure to let them pick two to four favorite toys, so they can have something to keep them occupied during those free times. Let them bring one favorite movie to watch so they can share their favorite with grandpa and grandma. Keeping it to one and writing your name on it, always saves from a mix up between each others movies, if they end up having the same one. Have your child bring a favorite book, a great way to help their learning, bonding with their grandparents and also making them feel at home!
Extras
Now these last few items are must haves sometimes and all the time! Emergency contact information. We are family and sometimes think that we each know the important information about one another, but when in a crisis or emergency, we may find we are wrong. Having up to date information every time your children go somewhere, even if family, is a must have to all! Having a card with all cell numbers, work numbers, doctor, dentist, etc. Is a great idea to put in the bag. Keeping it in there at all times would be easier, but be sure to change any information that becomes different. Now something you could do once in a while is putting a little spending money in the bag. Sometimes this can be a good a idea to help kids learn money skills and to save on their grandparents wallets! Another great idea, is to put a small gift in the bag for the grandparents. To show your appreciation and to show them what great grandparents they are. Now you do not have to do this every time, but doing it sometimes is great!
Now that this guide is done, I hope you can get your child’s bag ready in no time!
By Sarah Morris
