Actually Enjoy Traveling with Kids
Happy Thursday! You made it!
Lots of people in my corner of the world are loading their kids into cars and planes to head out for spring break. I’m going to say the quiet part out loud here: traveling with kids is not a vacation. It’s stressful. It’s risky and expensive. And it’s very, very easy for things to go sideways.
Want to avoid travel drama? Align expectations BEFORE you leave. A short conversation in advance can minimize upset and disappointment during the trip.
Get clear on what’s going to happen each day. Explain how you’ll get there, how long it will take, what to expect on the way, and what each day will be like. Sneaky parenting trick: Most children like having a pared-down trip calendar or itinerary, especially if there are specific things happening on set days. Having their own calendar cuts down on them asking you a million questions about what’s happening when.
Make a “Top Three” List. What are the top three things everyone is imagining or hoping for (including YOU)? If something isn’t realistic, talk about that before you go. And be sure to schedule a specific day and time to do one thing from everyone’s list.
Plan for downtime. Travel is destabilizing for lots of kids (and adults). Allow for some quiet, chill time each day. And, most importantly, stick as close to kids’ normal bedtime routines as you can. You’ll thank me when you get home.
Resource of the Week: If you’re flying with toddlers or young children, take a roll of painter’s tape with you. Kids can stick the tape wherever they want to “draw” on the seats, walls, and windows of the plane, make a little house or cave out of tape, or write letters and numbers with it on the tray table. As you prepare for landing, they can help you make a big ball to throw away on your way off the plane. It’s the best and cheapest travel toy around.
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You’ve got this.
Cari
