A cozy checklist full of love, laughter, and lasting memories
Let’s be honest—there’s just something magical about Grandma’s house. The moment you walk in, you feel it. The warmth. The hugs. The smell of something good in the kitchen. But what makes a grandma’s home truly special? It’s not fancy stuff. It’s the little things—things that make kids want to stay forever and grownups feel like kids again. Here are 17 must-haves every grandma should keep at home to keep the magic alive:
1. A “Grandkid” Drawer or Basket
This is your secret weapon! A drawer or basket filled with crayons, stickers, puzzles, and snacks just for the grandkids. When they visit, you can say, “Check the drawer!” and watch their eyes light up. Add something new every so often—it’s like Grandma’s version of a treasure chest!
2. A Comfy Rocking Chair
Not just any chair—your chair. The one where babies are rocked to sleep, teens sit beside you to talk, and you get your best thinking done. Bonus points if it squeaks a little or has a soft quilt draped over the back. It’s a hug in chair form.
3. Photo Frames Full of Family
Every room should have at least one smiling face in a frame. Grandkids love spotting themselves in pictures. It makes them feel important. Add old family photos too—so they can see how much they look like Uncle Joe or that their mama once had pigtails too.
4. A Signature Homemade Treat
Whether it’s your cinnamon rolls, cheesy casserole, or famous banana bread, your grandkids should be able to say, “Grandma always makes the best ____.” It doesn’t have to be fancy—just made with love. And don’t forget to write the recipe down!
5. A Well-Worn Recipe Book
A book with smudged pages, scribbled notes, and maybe even a little flour stuck to the corner. It’s full of stories, not just meals. This book holds birthday cakes, Sunday dinners, and those “just because” cookies. Someday, a grandchild might treasure it more than gold.
6. A Cozy Blanket or Quilt
Every grandma’s house needs a soft, cozy blanket. Perfect for movie nights, cold toes, or wrapping up together after a long day. Keep it on the couch and say, “Grab the blanket, sweetie,” and they’ll know exactly which one you mean.
7. Emergency Toys and Games
Rainy day? No problem. Bored teen? You’ve got this. A stash of classic board games, coloring supplies, or a deck of cards can turn a dull moment into fun in seconds. Old-school is cool when it’s at Grandma’s house—think UNO, checkers, or even marbles.
8. A Bible or Inspirational Book
Your home is full of comfort, and this is part of it. Whether you read from the Bible, a daily devotional, or a book of encouraging stories, it shows your grandkids where your strength comes from. Share a favorite verse or passage—it might stick with them for life.
9. A “You’re Always Welcome” Sign or Feeling
Even if you don’t have a sign that says it, your grandkids should feel it the minute they walk through the door. You’re never “too busy.” There’s always a seat at the table and something in the fridge. That’s the grandma way.
10. A Garden or a Few Potted Plants
You don’t need a giant garden—just a few plants or flowers to care for together. Let the kids pick a flower and water it each time they visit. It teaches patience and adds a splash of color to your home—and to your time together.
11. A Warm Welcome Mat
It might be shaped like a sunflower, have a funny saying, or simply say “Welcome,” but it sets the tone: this house is full of joy and open arms. It’s the first smile they see before the real one on your face.
12. A Phone Charging Station (With Extra Cords!)
Want your teen grandkids to stick around a little longer? Be the cool grandma with a phone charger in every room! They’ll laugh, “Of course Grandma’s got one,” and maybe even put their phone down long enough to chat while it charges.
13. A Big Calendar or Planner
Keep track of birthdays, school concerts, soccer games, and when the kids are off school. Not only does it help you stay organized—it shows your grandkids that their lives matter to you. You’re not just watching from the sidelines; you’re cheering them on.
14. A Jar of Peppermints or Butterscotch
This is a little thing—but oh, it brings big smiles. Every grandma needs a candy jar. Not for spoiling (well, maybe a little), but for that cozy, old-fashioned charm. It says, “Here, have a treat. You’re home.”
15. A “Sick Day” Survival Kit
Sometimes grandkids come over with sniffles or tummy aches. Be prepared with tissues, kids’ medicine (approved by their parents), a thermometer, and maybe a warm-water bottle. Add a small stuffed animal and a cup of ginger tea—and you’re now the coziest nurse in town.
16. A Journal or Memory Book
Even if you write just a little now and then—recording your thoughts, funny things the kids say, or big family moments—it becomes a priceless gift later on. One day, someone will read it and say, “Wow… this is who Grandma really was.”
17. Stories and Wisdom to Share
Don’t keep your best memories locked away. Tell your grandkids about the time you got in trouble at school, your first job, or how you met Grandpa. They may roll their eyes now, but trust me—these stories become treasures they’ll hold forever.
Final Thought:
Your home doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be yours—full of warmth, wisdom, and heart. With these 17 little touches, you’re not just building a house. You’re creating a legacy of love that your grandkids will carry with them forever.
Love Being a Grandma?
Join 2,400+ grandmas who wake up to a cheerful, uplifting email made just for you. It’s full of heart, sprinkled with fun, and always free. Start your mornings with a smile—sign up below! ❤️