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Oh, how we cherish the moments when our grandkids come to visit! The house fills with laughter, little feet (or big ones!) run through the rooms, and we get to enjoy the precious bond that only grandparents and grandchildren share. But let’s be honest—those visits aren’t always smooth sailing. While we wouldn’t trade these moments for the world, they do come with their fair share of challenges.Whether it’s keeping up with their energy, dealing with picky eating, or finding ways to connect in a world full of distractions, we grandparents have our work cut out for us. But don’t worry—we’re in this together! Let’s talk about some of the biggest hurdles we face when our grandkids come over—and, more importantly, how we can handle them with love and grace.
1. Keeping Up with Their Energy
Gone are the days when we could run around endlessly without feeling it in our knees the next day! Our grandkids have boundless energy, whether they’re toddlers climbing on furniture, elementary kids racing through the house, or teenagers eager to go on all-day adventures.
How to handle it:
Plan a mix of activities. A morning at the park can be balanced with an afternoon of quiet activities like reading, coloring, or watching a movie together.Take breaks when needed. Snuggling up on the couch with a book or playing a board game can give you a little rest without stopping the fun.Encourage independent play. If the grandkids are young, set up safe spaces with toys or crafts where they can entertain themselves for a bit while you relax nearby.Let them help with simple tasks. Older grandkids might enjoy helping in the kitchen or working on a project with you—keeping them engaged without exhausting yourself.
2. Mess, Mess, and More Mess
Between toys, snacks, crafts, and just the general excitement of being at Grandma’s house, the house can go from tidy to looking like a tornado hit in minutes. While we don’t mind a little mess, it can get overwhelming quickly.
How to handle it:
Embrace some level of chaos. A little mess means they’re having fun, but having a system in place can keep it from getting out of control.Set up designated play areas. Keeping toys and activities in one space helps contain the mess.Teach them to help clean up. Even little ones can learn simple cleanup habits, like putting toys back before taking out new ones.Have easy-to-clean snack stations. If you allow food outside the kitchen, use spill-proof cups and plates to minimize messes.
3. Picky Eating and Different Food Preferences
If you have multiple grandkids visiting, you might feel like a short-order cook. Some kids won’t touch anything green, others insist on peanut butter sandwiches at every meal, and teenagers seem to eat everything in sight (except when they suddenly decide they’re “not hungry”).
How to handle it:
Stick to simple, flexible meals. A “build-your-own” meal (like tacos, sandwiches, or pasta with different toppings) allows everyone to customize their plate.Keep a few favorites on hand. If you know your grandkids’ go-to snacks or meals, having them available can make things smoother.Make cooking a shared activity. Kids are often more willing to eat food they help prepare, so let them stir, mix, or even choose a recipe.Don’t stress too much. If they eat less one meal, they’ll make up for it later. As long as they’re fed and happy, it’s okay if it’s not perfectly balanced every time.
4. Balancing Screen Time
Many of our grandkids are glued to their phones, tablets, or video games, and it can feel like we’re competing with technology for their attention.
How to handle it:
Set “unplugged” times. Meals, special outings, or family activities can be screen-free.Join in their interests. If they love a particular game or app, ask them to show you. It can be a fun bonding moment!Offer engaging alternatives. Board games, puzzles, crafts, and outdoor activities can help balance screen time.
5. Respecting Their Changing Interests
What thrilled them last year may get an eye-roll this year. It’s sometimes hard to keep up as they grow and change.
How to handle it:
Stay curious! Ask them about their favorite music, books, or hobbies.Let them take the lead. Whether they want to bake cookies, watch a certain movie, or talk about their latest obsession, showing interest strengthens your bond.Be adaptable. If they outgrow an old favorite activity, embrace the new phase they’re in rather than holding on to the past.
6. Handling Sibling Squabbles
If you have multiple grandkids visiting, there’s bound to be some bickering.
How to handle it:
Set clear expectations. “At Grandma’s house, we treat each other with kindness.”Let them work it out when possible. But step in if things get out of hand.Redirect their focus. A fun group activity can help them move on from an argument.
7. Dealing with Homesickness (For the Young Ones) or Restlessness (For the Teens)
Little ones might miss their parents, while teens might miss their social lives.
How to handle it:
For younger kids: Keep familiar routines, offer comfort items, and reassure them that Mom and Dad will be back soon.For teens: Give them some independence—let them choose an activity or even have a little time to themselves.
8. Keeping the House Safe
Grandparent homes aren’t always set up for little ones, and things like stairs, sharp corners, or breakable decorations can become hazards.
How to handle it:
Do a quick safety check before they arrive. Put away fragile items, lock cabinets, and set up baby gates if needed.Supervise activities. Especially if they involve things like cooking or crafting with small parts.Have basic first-aid supplies handy. Just in case of little scrapes or bumps!
9. Saying Goodbye
The hardest part of every visit is when it’s time for them to leave. It never feels long enough, and we miss them the moment they walk out the door.
How to handle it:
Create goodbye traditions. A special hug, a little note in their bag, or a promise to video call soon can make parting easier.Look forward to the next visit. Talk about what fun things you’ll do together next time.Take time to unwind. A cup of tea, a walk, or a well-earned nap can help you recharge after they leave.
Final Thoughts
Yes, having our grandkids visit comes with challenges, but every bit of effort is worth it. The mess, the energy, and even the occasional tantrum all fade in comparison to the joy of making lifelong memories.At the end of the day, our grandkids won’t remember if the house was spotless or if we had the “perfect” meal. They’ll remember the warmth, the love, and the fun they had at Grandma’s house. And that’s what truly matters.
