Disclaimer: Devoted Grandma is reader-supported. If you purchase anything through my site, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Thank you.
When you are a grandma, there are just certain things that you should have in your home. Your grandma had these things, her grandma had these things, and now it is your turn, my fellow Devoted Grandma!
Can you think of some of these unique items that your grandma had in her home and you probably have, too? I thought about it and came up with these 22 things that grandparents should always have on hand, including:
1. Tons of comfortable seating
Whether you’re cuddling in for a story or watching a movie, you will want plenty of seating options for every scenario, whether it be a sectional or a cozy rocking chair. Speaking of stories…
2. A collection of classic children’s books for storytime
I still have most of my kids’ books, which my grands love going through for storytime! Do you need to add it to your personal library? I recommend starting at the thrift store, where you can get practically new books at a fraction of the cost.
3. Snacks – lots and lots of snacks
Is it just me, or are kids today hungrier than our kids (their parents)? Maybe I am just forgetting, but I do not remember the constant need for snacks and food! Regardless, we want to keep our grandbabies’ tummies full, so always have good, nutritional foods on hand (plus a few treats, too!).
4. Grandma’s Secret Recipe Box
Every grandma has her signature dish, whether it’s the best homemade apple pie or a hearty lasagna. Which recipe is your go-to? Keep your secret recipes close to hand, and consider sharing them with your grandkids to pass on family traditions!
5. Quilts and heirloom blankets
Like rocking on grandma’s lap, nothing says cozy quite like wrapping up in a handmade quilt or a special family heirloom blanket. Keep these comfort items handy – you never know when you will need them.
6. An old-fashioned sewing kit
Even if you’re not a sewing whiz, it’s always handy to have a kit for mending those loose buttons and small tears. (Grandkids tend to have lots of both!) Plus, it’s a great skill to pass on to your grandchildren.
7. A stack of games and puzzles
From Monopoly to chess to puzzles, these classics never go out of style. Games are perfect for rainy days and offer a fantastic way to bond with your grandkids.
8. An array of craft supplies
I love coloring at my grandma’s house and make it a point to have tons of crayons, paints, and other creative mediums on hand for my grands. You never know when the crafting bug will bite!
9. First-aid kit
In hindsight, I should have maybe had this as #1 (for obvious reasons)… regardless, it’s always good to be prepared for minor mishaps, so stock your kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and whatever else you might need to play doctor.
10. Dress up clothes
Whether it’s princess and pirate costumes you have in a bin or just some old clothes and jewelry they can play with, kids LOVE dressing up – especially at grandma’s house!
11. A sturdy step stool
A good step stool can help your little ones reach the sink to wash their hands, or it can be used to give them a boost to see what you’re cooking on the stove. (Just keep a close eye on the latter.)
12. VHS tapes
You know all of those Disney movies your kids used to watch on VHS? Your grandkids think those are pretty neat and find the “technology” behind these movies’ equal parts confusing and fascinating. Break out the VCR, grandma – you’re about to blow their minds.
13. “Old” toys
I remember playing with my mother’s old dolls when I visited my grandma’s house, and my grandkids love playing with their parent’s old Barbies and Hot Wheels. Who says kids need the latest and greatest gadgets?
14. A bird feeder and a bird book
One of the simple joys in life is watching birds and identifying them. My grandson and I love to do this and recommend you also try it with your grandkids (if you haven’t already)!
15. A jar for catching bugs
Every child is a junior entomologist, so why not give them the supplies they need to fuel their fascination? You don’t need anything fancy or expensive – just a jar and maybe a net will do.
16. Extra toiletries and items
Have you ever had your grandkids beg to stay the night, but it didn’t work out because you didn’t have pajamas, a toothbrush, and soap they can use? Of course, you haven’t – you are always prepared and welcome these impromptu slumber parties.
17. A stash of seasonal items
From Christmas ornaments to Easter egg dyes to pumpkin carving kits, be ready for any holiday that allows for creative hands-on fun. (I keep everything we may need in a few totes in the storage room.)
18. Comfort foods
We discussed snacks, but let’s not forget about having ingredients on-hand for your famous chicken noodle soup or your signature chocolate chip cookies.
19. A popcorn maker
My grandma used to make stovetop popcorn, and we grandkids used to get giddy with excitement whenever we saw her pull out the pot to make it! Today, my grandkids do the same and even love to help me crank the handle.
20. A signature scent
My grandma was a frugal lady, but there is one thing she would splurge on: Chanel No. 5. To this day, the smell of this iconic perfume takes me back to church as a little girl, and I love it! While I don’t wear perfume, I do use the same scented lotion which I hope my grandkids will one day associate with me.
21. A special place for your grandkids to sleep
When the grands visit and stay the night, have a special place for them to rest, whether it be the guest room or a couch bed. Make sure they have lots of comfortable pillows and blankets so they can get a restful night’s sleep.
22. Extra pet supplies
If you have pets, be sure to have some pet toys and treats on hand for the grandkids to use. Not only is this fun for the kids (and the pets, hehe), but it is a wonderful way for kids to learn about caring for animals.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the most important thing you’ll provide as a grandma isn’t anything physical – it’s your time, love, and attention. These things, along with the list above, are what your grandkids will remember and cherish.
