By the time you’ve raised your own kids, you might feel confident you can handle just about anything. Still, babysitting your grandkids safely in today’s world can feel like a whole new ballgame. From food allergies to screen time rules, even the most loving and experienced grandparents can get caught off guard.
Pediatric nurse practitioner Dr. Carly Thomas, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, has seen this firsthand. Here is her expert advice to help you feel prepared, confident, and calm while caring for your grandkids.
“I love written instructions and a plan or routine for grandparents to follow,” says Carly Thomas. “It builds confidence and keeps the child’s care consistent.”
Start with Allergies: The #1 Thing to Ask
If there is one question to ask before babysitting, this is it.
“The most important thing to ask is about your grandkids’ allergies,” says Dr. Thomas. “These will depend on their age and can change as they grow.”
Food allergies are far more common today than they were when many grandparents were raising their own children, and the most common ones may surprise you. According to data from Kids With Food Allergies, milk is the most common allergen in children, affecting 1.9%. Other important allergens to be aware of include:
Peanuts (2.2%)
Tree nuts such as walnuts and cashews (1.2%)
Shellfish (1.3%)
Eggs, wheat, soy, and sesame
The good news is that anaphylactic reactions are rare in infants. Research shows that early introduction of potential allergens between 4 and 6 months of age may reduce the risk of developing severe reactions later on. Still, if your grandchild has a known allergy, the parents will usually have a clear list of what to avoid.
“Allergens won’t come as a surprise,” says Dr. Thomas. “Parents should already know what to avoid and share that with you.”
Medication Mistakes to Avoid
It can be tempting to reach for over the counter medications that were once household staples. However, not all are safe or recommended for young children today.
Dr. Thomas urges grandparents to be especially cautious with dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in cough suppressants.
“Even in adults, coughs are your body’s way of protecting the airway,” she explains. “Suppressing a cough can increase the risk of pneumonia, especially in kids and older adults.”
The American College of Chest Physicians does not recommend cough suppressants for children, particularly for colds. Studies show they are ineffective at treating the underlying issue and may increase health risks.
Simple Safety Steps to Take at Home
If your grandchildren visit your home, a few small updates can make a big difference.
Dr. Thomas recommends keeping children’s Zyrtec (cetirizine) on hand if your grandchild is 6 months or older. For children between 6 months and 2 years, a 2.5 ml dose can help relieve mild allergic reactions to food, bug bites, or pollen.
She also strongly advises removing choking hazards such as button batteries, which are extremely dangerous if swallowed. As warmer weather approaches, she shares another important reminder: never allow children to ride on lawnmowers or play nearby while one is in use. “They’re just not worth the risk,” she says.
Another helpful item to keep nearby is a reliable digital thermometer. Monitoring your grandchild’s temperature can help you decide when to call the doctor or seek emergency care. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a normal body temperature for children ranges from 97°F to 100.4°F (36.1°C to 38°C). A fever is generally defined as 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. If a child under three months has a fever, or if a fever lasts more than 24 hours in a child under two, it is important to contact a healthcare provider.
When a Child Gets Sick: Have a Plan
Children get sick. Knowing what to do ahead of time can ease stress when it happens.
“Ask the parents for a game plan,” says Dr. Thomas. “Know who to call, and what their preferences are. And when in doubt, 911 or the nearest children’s emergency room is always a safe option.”
Many grandparents find it reassuring to keep a printed care guide nearby that includes:
Emergency contact numbers
Medication schedules
Dietary restrictions
Symptoms to watch for
Addresses for local urgent care or pediatric emergency rooms
Having this information at your fingertips helps you act quickly and confidently if something unexpected comes up.
Communication Is Key
Whether your grandchild has a specific bedtime routine, uses an inhaler, or follows a special diet, staying aligned with the parents makes caregiving smoother for everyone.
Clear written instructions or a simple routine from the parents can be incredibly helpful. Knowing what is expected ahead of time allows you to focus on enjoying your time together rather than second-guessing decisions.
Following the family’s routine also helps your grandchild feel secure and comfortable while in your care.
Screen-Free Is Best for Young Children
t can be tempting to hand your grandchild a phone or tablet for a few minutes of quiet, but Dr. Thomas encourages grandparents to pause before doing so.
“Please do not use screens with your grandchildren,” she says. “The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend any screen use before age two. After that, only one hour per day of educational content is suggested, and not on individual devices.”
Instead, she suggests activities that encourage connection and creativity, such as reading together, playing outside, building with blocks, talking, or drawing.
“These are the moments that help your grandchild grow and thrive in every area,” she adds.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Being a grandparent is one of life’s greatest joys. Stepping in to babysit, even for a short time, is a meaningful way to strengthen your bond. With a bit of preparation and clear communication, you can support your grandchild’s safety, health, and development while creating memories you will both treasure.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice for your specific needs.
About the Expert
Carly Thomas, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, earned her Doctorate in Pediatric Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina and is certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner by the PNCB. She is passionate about parental education, newborn care, clinical research, and preventive medicine. In her free time, Carly enjoys going to the beach with her sister, reading, attending church, boating, walking her dogs (Boaz and Dooby), doing CrossFit, and exploring new places with her fiancé, David.
