With life the way it is these days a lot of parents are relying on their parents to help with baby sitting, this works out well for many people but can cause heartache for some.

Advice

Advice is good if it is sought after, yes nanna's we did

have children and survived the experience but that doesnt mean we can "take over" our grand children. Remember what it was like when you first bought home your baby, how nervous you were, how everyone gave expert advice and then badgered you into using it or berated you (or worse talked about you as if you weren't there) when you didn't... ask yourself is that what you want for your daughter or son's partner. Tell the new mum that any advice given may be considered but ultimately the decision is their and they should make their decisions based on their instincts.

Be open and approachable

If you feel the need to share use phrases like "have you considered trying ...." ; "What do you think if you were to...." and accept that mum may or may not use your suggestion. Be upfront and say you'd love to help however you will wait to be asked.

Create a space

I am lucky I have a room I can set up for my grandson's when they visit, if this is not possible make sure you can create a space where a port-a-cot can be put up and nappies etc can be changed.

Furniture

This one is for those parents who have decided they arent having any more children, save your furniture if its at all possible, as grandparents who want to have their grandchildren visit it's really nice to know that furniture doesnt have to be lugged around making visits friendly and relaxed. I didnt keep my baby furnishing, like many parents I sold mine on. The solution to that is garage sales where you can pick up change tables, cots, baby baths etc in Australia is also sites where you can sell/swap/buy or better still Freecycle well worth looking at...parents will have the lovely new items what you are providing are the short term furniture so visiting is a joy not a stressful event.

I would also recommend having other items such as wipes, nappies, bathwash etc I purchased what my daughter and son's partner were using so they were confident that what they needed if they stayed a bit longer would be available....this works for bottles dummies (pacifiers).

Toys

Toys can be easily stored in laundry hampers and provide the grand children with something different to play with while visiting.

Binkies (Comforters)

One of my grandsons got a Blue (a crocheted piece that was dragged around) we all know these things they look revolting after a while...if you are going to make or supply these buy a few as they can be washed and used aand will look great and not a grungy rag being dragged around.

I love being a Nanna, its the most amazing feeling and I think I am enjoying it because I am fortunate to have two happy mums who I respect and love come to me when they need to, know that I will respect their wishes and because I have made a comfortable space for their child in my home.