Creating Memories with Children
As Travel Advisors we have the unique opportunity to create memories. Sometimes those memories are "firsts", a couple's vacation ... their honeymoon, and then their first family vacations with young children. Sometimes those memories are the "lasts", the last time a family will experience time together in a vacation setting before a family member isn't able to travel any longer and passes on. The opportunity we have to make a difference in our world is humbling sometimes.
One of our favorite vacations to plan is a young family's first vacation. There is nothing sweeter than to watch young children exploring the world with their family and creating lifelong memories.
And while we know that the thought of traveling with young children can be stressful and seem quite overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Keep reading for our best pro tips from our travel advisors for parents (and grandparents) to remember when thinking about taking young children on vacation.
Perfection is not the Goal, Memories are:
Vacations aren’t always perfect. I don’t care where you go. Kids have meltdowns. Service is slow. Flights have delays. Issues arise. If you look at all the small issues, you will forget that vacations are all about spending quality time with your loved ones and making memories. You have 18 summers with your kids, don’t miss out on the memories.
Move at YOUR Pace:
From nanny to mom, I've picked up a few tricks along the way on traveling with small children! Lower your expectations, take all the naps and go at your own pace! Pack small trinkets and toys for hotel room play. There’s always that gap of time after bath or while parents are getting ready in the mornings and the littles have a few minutes to kill. Pack a small bag of trinkets or really fun candy that the kiddos have never tried, eaten, or seen to help with those ‘waiting in line’ jitters. Above all, don't sweat the details! Your children are just excited to be with you on vacation, so truly soak it all in!
Don't Over Plan:
Don't over plan your vacation agenda. Your kids will be tired and will likely not want to sit through long dinners, so be flexible. They may need a nap, or need to sleep in when you're ready to hit the beach. If you are patient and allow the trip to just flow, everyone will end up much happier! Also, when visiting an all inclusive resort, always go to the shows! You don't realize how much the kids enjoy the Michael Jackson show that may not entertain us as the adults. See things through their eyes, and make everlasting memories!
Always Include a "Rest Day!":
Everyone needs a break, even on vacation. I am all for planning out your days but it is nice to plan a “no plans” day. Our most visited vacation destination is Walt Disney World. We get tired and need a break from the parks. My advice for young parents, sleep in and spend the day enjoying the resort. At the end of the day this is a vacation so relax while you get the chance.
Bottom line....relax and have fun! Don't let something that's intended to bring joy turn into a stressful event for everyone.
Vacations are the perfect time to watch, listen and get to know your children in a different setting and in a different way. Take tons of pictures, ask lots of question, be silly, laugh and make fun memories that last a lifetime!
Happy Vacationing!