What amenities do you offer for children at your property?

Of course, that depends on your clientele – sure, if you’re primarily a business travel destination, it might not be a burning question.

But would you like to increase your appeal to family travel?

They don’t have to be expensive. Maybe putting kid-sized bathrobes and kid-sized slippers in the rooms would be an appreciated touch, something that would make the kids – and parents – remember your hotel.

You can put colourful hand soap dispensers decorated to appeal to children in your bathrooms – at the appropriate height, of course.

And why not put a bag of sweets for kids, who generally have less patience for travel than their parents do and aren’t shy about letting their parents know it? A bag of jelly beans or wine gums could do wonders to improve a tired tiny traveller’s disposition just when the parents need it most. You might want to put them in a place the parents can see them but the kids can’t, or keep them at the desk to offer.

Colouring books and pencils in the rooms give the kids something to do while mum and dad unpack and figure out what to do for dinner.

Kids would also appreciate you adding some Milo to the tea and coffee tray. And parents of small children would love attractively kid-friendly packaged wet wipes in the bathroom.

You can add baby changing tables as well, either vertical or horizontal pull out styles, if you really want to make a splashy impression on parents (though these are probably best suited in public areas).

Finally, you can put kid-friendly cosmetic bags in the room for a pleasant surprise as well, with such things as soaps and nourishing creams that are designed to go well with sensitive baby and toddler skin.

Most of the time, it’s not how impressive the gesture is, it’s that your guests can tell you were thinking of them and their children. That’s what leaves a lingering impression, bringing guest back for repeat stays and going on to market your hotel or motel on your behalf.