Packing List for a Visit to Grandma's

Clothes and Toiletries

• Pack the clothes your child will be most comfortable in, depending on the weather forecast for Grandma's house. Ideally, you'll pack one outfit and pair of underwear for each day, plus a few extras, so no one has to worry about doing laundry during the trip. Because you can't be sure what the temperature will be like in Grandma's house, pack two pairs of pajamas, one warm and one cool, and tuck at least one sweatshirt or sweater into the suitcase. Be sure to ask your child's grandmother what she has planned for the trip. For instance, if she's counting on a lake or pool trip, your child will need a bathing suit and water shoes; if she plans to attend church services, your child will need something appropriate. Pack a toothbrush, children's toothpaste, and your child's usual shampoo and body wash.

Comfort Items

• An older child might not need much in the way of comfort during a trip away from home; a single stuffed animal might be all she requires. If your child is younger, however, pack items that will turn her sleeping area at Grandma's into a replica of her bedroom at home. Pack her night-light, blanket, favorite small pillow and most cherished bedtime story. If she'll be visiting without you, send along a framed family photo she can keep by her bed. Talk to her grandmother about the sleeping arrangements if you're unsure what they'll be. If she plans for your child to sleep on a couch, consider bringing along an air mattress (only if you're driving, of course). Making sure your child is comfortable at night is crucial for the success of the visit.

Safety Gear

• Some grandparents childproof from basement to attic following a pregnancy announcement. But if your young child's Grandma doesn't often get small visitors, her home might not be set up with your little one's safety in mind. Consider sending along some small items she might need. A grandparent should use outlet covers and soft bumpers on furniture edges, suggests HealthyChildren.org, and dangling window cords should be tied up with brackets. You may even pick up a few packages of adhesive child locks, which are easier to remove post-visit than those that are installed with hardware. Always talk to Grandma before packing childproofing gear. Not only may she have already taken some safety steps, but she might be offended if you assume her home is not safe for your child.

All the Rest

• Any medication your child needs or might need should be packed in her bag. If you won't be staying at Grandma's too, pack instructions for administering medication, a copy of your child's health insurance card and a list of emergency contacts. Send along a selection of books and toys, especially if your child's grandmother doesn't have a big supply. A young child needs a stash of diapers, wipes, baby food, formula, bottles, pacifiers, a stroller and car seat -- everything she uses on a daily basis should go with her to Grandma's. A potty-training little one needs a potty seat or small child's toilet. Pack some of your child's favorite treats, especially those that can be used to entice good behavior. If you won't be tagging along, type up a list of tips, tricks and scheduling notes to make sure everything goes smoothly.