Summer Vacation Planning
Summer is approaching and lots of families are planning vacations, and it is truly a wonderful idea to travel with your children. Go to Playground for Parents to read an excellent guest post by Renee from Mothers Raising Boys on why it is such a great idea to take your kids on trips. Even though travel with your kids can be difficult, you can be successful. Here are some tips to improve your chances of having fun together while you travel.
Photo courtesy of twodolla
~Pack carefully for the traveling part of your vacation. Kids get bored easily in the car or on a plane. Here are a few things to take with you:
-A DVD player with a few movies your kids never get to see is a great thing to pack with you. It can provide much needed peace and quiet.
-Audio books and headphones can keep kids of all ages entertained for a while. You can also pick an audio book that the whole family will like.
-Lacing cards are a fun way to keep little ones’ hands busy. They don’t require a lot of supplies . Plus lacing cards help your children improve fine motor skills and hand/eye coordination.
-Take a trip to the local Dollar Store and fill a bag with cheap toys. The kids will like the fact that they are new. You won’t care if they get lost.
-A fun retro idea is to give your kids a Rubix cube. It’s compact and won’t make a mess. It will keep your kids’ attention and will keep those hands busy.
-Mad Libs are a fun and educational activity for the whole family. Everyone will have a few laughs!
-I give the kids gum. It keeps them happy!
-Little kids love lift-the-flap books. They keep small hands busy and little minds engaged.
-Create a scavenger hunt for your kids. You can use the printable lists found on MomsMinivan, too.
Photo courtesy of Andy and Tracy Sidesinger
~Be realistic about what you can do on your trip. PLAN!
-Young children get tired and cranky, so plan the things that you absolutely don’t want to miss for early in the day.
-Discuss lunch and dinner options before you head out for the day. You don’t want to have that discussion while the kids are melting down and you are famished.
*Remember to bring healthy snacks with you. You’ll save money, and the kids will have good food to fuel them throughout the day. Avoid the sugar crash!
*Don’t forget to bring water for the whole family – including you. Staying hydrated will make everyone happier and healthier.
-Bring a change of clothes for the little ones in case of an accident.
-Bring sunblock, hats, and sunglasses.
-Pack a map. It can save you!
-Let the kids help you decide on activities for the day.
-Plan for a place to meet up at a certain time if someone gets lost.
~Remember that your vacation is supposed to be FUN for everyone. If you aren’t having fun, then you need to change something!
Make some memories this summer!
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