Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
Q: How can I prepare my home for the grandkids summer visit?
A: This summer, many Florida grandparents like you will welcome the grandkids for fun-filled visits. You’ve pulled out the ice cream maker, checked the movie theater schedule and reminded them to bring their swim suits. But what about preparing your home and yard? Here’s how to get ready.
Prioritize Safety
Safety measures depend on the children’s ages. For toddlers, store hazardous items like cleaning supplies or insect repellents in high cabinets or use child safety locks. Got fresh batteries in the smoke detector? Involve the older kids in your safety plans. Show them where the fire extinguisher and first aid kit are kept.
What about the water? Make preparations now for your grandchild’s swimming ability with necessary swim safety devices. If you have a pool, is there a barrier or alarm to prevent accidents? Floatation devices? Set firm pool rules, especially with Florida’s year-round swimming weather. At the beach, teach them about the various colored flags and about rip currents. If you don’t know CPR, taking a class now is a good idea.
Organize Your Space
The grandkids will arrive with clothes, toys, electronics, and all kinds of gear. Declutter closets and designate storage spots for their belongings. Use baskets for beach towels, bins for toys, and hooks for hats or swimsuits. Spend some time on instructions for their use.
Create Play Zones
Welcome to grandma and grandpa’s playground! The flat, open space in the yard is perfect for running or games like soccer. Small tents with sanitized play sand (different from construction sand) can become “the beach” at home. Prepare for rainy Florida afternoons by setting up a cozy movie spot inside –maybe even with a portable projector. The small fry will stay entertained when storms or heat keep them inside, and you’ll enjoy it after they leave.
Make Memories
Florida’s packed with kid-friendly activities. From Orlando’s theme parks to Brevard’s nationally famous zoo and beaches, boredom is not an option. Before they ever arrive, check local guides for summer activities. Mix experiences the grandkids love, like splashing at a water park, with new things, like a kayak trip at a local spring or visiting a manatee hangout. Grandparents can be the companions for fun that parents often cannot.
Indulge away…
At home, children have rules to follow, but at your house, some of those rules might not apply. Maybe you’ll allow a little more screen time, let them stay up later, share an additional sweet treat and overlook a messy room – all guaranteed to make you a hero. When the visit ends, put your feet up and enjoy the quiet days—until the next adventure.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
