This is a lovely time for nearly-to-be grandparents, whether again or for the first time. You have a special place with the new baby and the new parents and can offer practical help and assistance in buying new baby items.

Do remember the first rule of being a grandparent – check first, don’t assume. The new parents will have their own ideas about what they want and how they plan to do things. There is nothing quite so wonderful as a grandparent who is there when needed and provides moral support and sympathy, as well as cups of tea and the odd small present for the baby or new parents and this is the role you want to be in.

It is traditional for the grandparents to help with buying some of the larger items such as a pram or cot for the new baby, so get together with the parents to be and find out from them if they would like you to do this, and what sort of gift they would like.

There is nothing to stop you adding on the odd extra item as time goes on, such as bootees, or other small gift for the new baby. You may need to tread carefully as you negotiate your relationship with the new family, but the rewards can be great.