What to do when grandparents babysit
When Grandparents Babysit: How to Keep Sleep on Track (Without Hurting Feelings)
Introduction
There’s nothing more heart-warming than watching your little one spend time with their grandparents. Whether it’s a regular childcare arrangement or a one-off weekend babysit, having support from family is a huge gift. But… it can come with one tiny hiccup: sleep habits. Maybe Granny loves extra cuddles and late-night stories, or Grandpa can’t say no to “just one more show.”
So how do you honour their role and preserve your child’s healthy sleep routine that you have worked really hard on?
Let’s explore some respectful, practical ways to maintain consistency – and your sanity.
Why It Matters
Young children thrive on predictability. A consistent bedtime, familiar routine, and sleep cues help their brains and bodies wind down. When sleep rules go out the window, you might see:
Later bedtimes
Night wakings
Early rising
More resistance at bedtime the next day
Grandparents usually have the best intentions. They want to create happy memories. The good news? With some preparation and clear communication, you can have both: joyful bonding time and well-rested kids. But you will need to be confident to speak about this with the grandparents!
5 Tips for Sleep Success with Grandparents
1. Share Your Sleep Plan in Advance
Before the visit, explain what works at home. Include:
Bedtime and wake time
Wind-down activities (bath, book, lights out)
Comfort items (white noise, teddy, sleep sack)
💡 Tip: write everything you do at home down and hand it over as a 'cheat sheet'.
2. Avoid Surprises
Let grandparents know before the babysit what you expect:
“We’d love it if bedtime stays around 7:30 so they don’t get overtired.”
“She’s used to falling asleep on her own, so no need to rock or cuddle to sleep.”
Be kind but clear. Framing it as helping the child – not controlling the adult – this reduces resistance and tension build up.
3. Offer Flexibility Where You Can
Pick your battles. If story time goes 5 minutes over or they sneak an extra cuddle, that’s OK! It’s the core habits (like timing and how they fall asleep) that matter most.
4. Set Them Up for Success
Make it EASY:
Pack familiar bedtime items
Preload white noise/music
Stick a bedtime checklist to the bedroom wall (this is appropriate for older children)
💬 Script for the child: “Grandma is going to do your bedtime just like Mummy and Daddy do.”
5. Debrief (Without Guilt-Tripping)
Afterward, thank them. If sleep went off-track, focus on your child’s needs:
“He had trouble settling last night, so we’ll keep bedtime extra calm today.”
“She was overtired after the weekend, so we’re going to reset the routine this week.”
Real Parent Story
One of my clients, Sarah, shared that her daughter always stayed up too late at Nana’s. We created a fun “Sleep Stars” chart that Nana loved using, and now bedtime’s back on track — with zero tension.
Final Thoughts
Grandparents can be incredible sleep allies — when they know what works and why. With gentle communication, you’re not just protecting your child’s sleep… you’re building a bridge between generations.
👉 Ready to reset after a weekend at the grandparents’?
Take the [free quiz] to get your personalised sleep plan today!
