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[quote=Anonymous]OP  and others - We have four grandchildren. and from the start I have always had them in a program a couple of hours when they started to come in the summer.  Two are twin girls now 9.5.  I think we started with 4 days and a simple gym program of 3 day option of 2.5 hours.  I never wanted the responsibility in our home  till about  age 5.  Where we live I now make sure to learn about summer programs by February and they are coming twice for a week.  It saves a lot on child care in the summer.   The point is that having some structure to the day is good for all of us.  Then we all can enjoy going to the pool, an area lake or indoor things like bowling or a movie.   I also find out specifically what they likebto eat at all meals so help meals go smoothly.  I am not above suggesting a fruit or vegetable option. But also have the snacks and desserts not usually offered at home.  The grandchildren also get to choose among camps to attend.

The other  set is a 7 year old girl and 5 year old boy who we will have for the first time for three days atvsummer's end.  I have reservations about the boy as he is still so full of energy, but with his sister here things should be OK.  We will be one on one in any activity.  Next summer both woukd be the age of some nice half-day camps, too.  One issue I face is whether to  have all three girls together,  Whike it woukd be fun in concept,  I sense some rivalry.  I will observe next week when all will be here a day or so.  Both families live in DC, but do not do things together as much as one might.  A grandparent needs to tred carefully in not  taking sides , but also seeing that every child is happy coming.

I will say that my stamina and flexibility are a bit unusual in having a younger daughter with disability  who lives with us.  Because I am active with her and used to multi-tasking and scheduling, suddenly having two youngsters in toe is not such  a shock to perhaps a more usual retirees' lifestyle and temperament.  No one should ever lay a hand on a child.   There are certain rules on safety, but we do not try to be overtly strict.  Still you are more tired at days end than usual and a week is about the length of time for young children to visit.

I think it is important to see if a grandparent's house is safe for the age range visiting.  I would include in this access to computer, any weapons in house, alcohol and oills in house and also a parents ability to drive with distractions.  I am absolutely clear when driving them on what we exoect fir their savety!!  I also think one might consider if your parents woukd be more comfortable giving you a break in your home and you should ask them.  I woukd suggest talking about routine and how you woukd like anybbehavior handled such as time out, no dessert, less tv or whatever.  Also what activity do you want your children to do such as limit on screen time, no Internet use, Reading so much time, and bed time etc. so that expectations are clear ahead of time.  And, if possible do an overnight or a weekend visit first at the grandparents.  We enjoy having the kids come, and the years fly by when soon they may not want to come so much.

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