- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- grandparents today articles
- grandparents today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Grandtravel
Grandparents Traveling with Grandchildren
By Sue Marquette Poremba
Falk recommends that grandparents keep the nationwide toll-free poison emergency line number (1-800-222-1222) handy. "It could save a life," he says.
Accidents or illness can happen to children, too. Parents should always provide insurance cards and a letter stating that the grandparent has permission to make medical decisions in case of an emergency. That letter should include the names of both the child and the grandparent, the dates of travel and any important medical information including allergies and date of the most recent tetanus shot. If at all possible, include some sort of formal identification for the child, such as a passport or a school ID card.
If flying or crossing borders, it would be wise to have a notarized letter from the parents that shows the grandparents have permission to travel with the child. They may never need the letter, but in today's climate, it is best to be prepared for anything.
Once all the plans are in place and the preparations are made, there is only one thing left to do – have a good time, make wonderful memories and build a special, lasting relationship with your grandchildren.