We <3 grandparents

Plans this weekend? Are you big on family fun days or more in the “get-me-a-date-night-ASAP” camp? Usually, I have the energy for one kid-centric activity and one adult-friendly plan per weekend. And I’m fine with that.

My crew is lucky to have supportive family nearby, including the most amazing grandparents who are always willing to watch the girls. In honor of the family, friends, nanas, papas, grandmas, and pop-pops who make it all possible, today we’re answering questions submitted by FamilyMade grandparents.

We appreciate you more than you know! 💜

—Lindsay

We hear you! Discipline coming from someone other than mom or dad can be a tricky adjustment for kids.

Our advice is two-fold:

1) Communicate to grandkids that grandma’s house is fun but there are rules. Set those rules (or let someone else set them—see No. 2 below) and hold firm to them.

2) Follow your child’s lead when it comes to discipline and structure for their child. Take a cue from the rules, schedules, and standards parents set for their kiddos and implement them in your own home, too. Consistency and expectation setting help children thrive.

• Also: Shawn and Andrew said the book 1-2-3 Magic was a game changer for rule-setting in their house!

Congratulations! This is such a magical time. Here are a few tips to help enjoy every moment and avoid stressful situations for yourself and your family.

• Be available. In the early newborn days, new parents may need extra support, advice, and rest. If you’re able (and if it’s what mom or dad wants), a little extra time spent helping out can go a long way.

• Listen and defer. It can be hard to watch your own child learn the ins and outs of becoming a parent without swooping in to help (or do it for them). Instead, give them space and time to figure it out on their own—and just be there for them as they find their parenting groove.

• Don’t go overboard. Being a grandparent should be fun, but it’s a good idea to set boundaries with your children about what’s “a special treat at grandma’s house” and what’s “brownies for breakfast all week aren’t doing anyone any favors.”

“Respect the idea that your kids will probably parent slightly differently than you did, and it’s not something you should feel bad about,” Shawn added. “Within that, just be that all-loving, playful, spoiling grandparent you’ve always wanted to be!”

Shawn and Andrew did all the research when it came to choosing the safest, most breathable mattress for their kids. They swear by the Newton Baby mattress and have even gifted it to several friends and family members.

Having the basics at grandma and grandpa’s house can make visits a lot easier for everyone. We recommend having a feeding area—a nursing station for mom, a high chair, or a baby seat. A crib or portable play area, potty and diapering basics, and some extra clothes, books, and a few toys never hurt either.

And if you really want to level up, check out this complete list from Pregnant Chicken.

Submit a question to be featured in a future Q&A here.

• The Ultimate Grandparent Handbook. Are you a first-timer or a pro looking for new inspiration? The Grandparents Handbook is chock full of games, activities, how-tos, and fun.

• UnitedHealthcare and Sesame Workshop (love them!) have a free resource for grandparents to help support families dealing with limited access to nutritious food. It includes strategies for planning and making easy, healthy, budget-friendly meals and helping children develop healthy relationships with food.

• Grandpa names? Cowboys and your parents’ parents are inspiring the hottest baby names in 2022! Check out the top contenders.

One last thing: We have two (yes, two!) major announcements headed your way on Monday. Take my word—you don’t want to miss it. 😉

That’s all for today! Get out there and hug a grandparent, step-grandparent, beloved family friend, or neighbor who is important to you. I’ll see you back here in no time!