It's important to think about things like sunscreen, bug spray, swim diapers (if applicable) - these things add up and often fall on the host family.

Your toys will definitely get more wear and tear - we keep our child's "special toys" in a bin in our room so that they aren't used during the share. All other toys are fair game.

Second high chair, double stroller, extra car seat all take up space in the house.

We host at our place and every couple weeks or so they bring their own diapers and wipes for their baby. In addition the baby here has formula and bottles. They usually bring things that the babies can’t share. However, they did also bring a big box of toys that they can share and we have toys they can share as well. They also brought some clothes for their baby. Our sons are 3 months apart and not the same size. But if need be, of course their baby can use our diapers etc.

I'd say definitely have conversations up front about what is provided by you as the host family or what responsibilities you share with the other family. We didn't outline anything at first and worked out a lot of kinks along the way. We started going through a roll of paper towels every couple of days so now our share family comes every Monday with a paper towel roll. Our nanny has a huge coffee thing so now we share the cost of providing K-Cups for the nanny. We have a shared box of snacks for the kids and each contribute weekly. It's definitely a learning process and as long as communication is open with the other family and you both shift as needed it will work out fine!

You need space for a second crib, highchair and supplies. You and the other family need to purchase a double stroller together. If the nanny will drive the children, both of you need to provide car seats. You will find that you will want to separate favorite toys and books, because the others will be worn out much faster. As the kids get older, they will share food, so you may choose to purchase it all and give the other family the receipt for half, or you may choose to each purchase your half.

If we are the family to host, what should we provide? We have plenty of toys. The other family can bring a crib and set it up. Will designate a section in the fridge for food/milk for the baby and nanny. What else?