Instead of traveling, many families would rather stay in and let the kids’ chaos stay within their homes. There is simply too much hassle, too many things to bring, and too many preparations needed for the trip. Parents would rather save up their travel budget and allow the kids to have fun in the backyard than go on long trips.
We have become accustomed to numerous horror stories that involve traveling with kids. But despite the hassles and extra work, traveling with the whole family while the kids are young can actually be beneficial in many ways.
Why Traveling With the Little Ones Make Sense
Parents may not be sure why it is worth taking their little kids with them on a trip. They can simply ask a loved one to watch over the children, so they can enjoy their trip. But there are valid reasons to take your kids with you more often when you go on a trip.
Build Independence and Self-confidence
Traveling helps kids meet new people from all walks of life. They can learn how to approach and play with other kids who have different cultures and languages. Despite the barriers, this can actually help in boosting their confidence and independence in the long run.
Expose Them to Brand New Experiences
Kids can enjoy new experiences that are not common at home, at school, or in their local community. They can learn a new language, taste foreign delicacies, and even try seemingly weird stuff that they can’t find anywhere near home. This opens up a whole new world for them and even builds their tolerance for different things and ideas.
Open Up Their Eyes to the Realities of the World
Traveling while volunteering is a good way to expose the kids to the different realities of the world. They can better understand how fortunate they are compared to other kids. This can help them learn how to be grateful and emphatic, and develop self-efficacy in the process.
Build Wonderful Childhood Memories
Many parents think fancy gifts are what make their kid’s childhood precious. But in reality, it is about the memories you build as a family that matters more. Kids actually remember their favorite trips with the family than the expensive toys you buy them that often end up on their shelves.
How to Free Yourself From Stress While Traveling With Kids
Thankfully, there are things you can do to reduce your stress and anxiety when traveling with the little ones. With proper planning and budgeting, you can actually enjoy a memorable trip that even the kids would want to recreate again. Here are some ideas you can consider on your next trip.
Only Bring the Essentials With One Exemption
The first rule is to only bring the essentials. With kids, everything might seem like a must-have. But when you list your essentials and prioritize, you will learn which get to stays and which ones are worth bringing.
When it comes to your kids, this includes enough change of clothes and shoes, their medications, if any, their stress-relievers, and the things they can’t absolutely live without. Although, there are certain things worth bringing along, like your picky eater’s eco-friendly dinosaur plate. To pacify his temper and make sure he eats fuzz-free, don’t forget his special bamboo bowl and plate.
Allow each of your kids to bring one of their favorite must-haves and let them carry this in their backpack. This will teach them to prioritize their essentials and bring down their baggage weight. They might change their mind after trying on their bags, which gives you more room in the car.
Find Ways to Work Around Your Schedule
Sometimes, parents would choose whichever flight they find convenient. But this can stress the little ones out. This is especially true if you don’t make the necessary preparations beforehand.
For example, the only trip you found available is a morning flight. You want to make sure the kids sleep early the night before. This will help make them less cranky
Or maybe you booked an afternoon flight when they usually like to play. To prevent them from disturbing other passengers, be sure to wear them out in the morning. This way, they will be too tired to run amok during the trip.
Take Extra Safety Measures
Kids can wander off and get lost in a crowded place. There are times when your worst nightmare can end up haunting you in the middle of a trip. But by taking extra precautionary measures, you can have better peace of mind.
Make sure your kids have your contact info with them at all times. Practice scenarios and teach kids to ask for help in case they encounter scary situations. It is also a good idea to invest in a GPS bracelet in disguise so you can monitor their location anytime.
Kids can be a handful at times. But they deserve to experience the joys of traveling and build wonderful memories with the whole family. If you are thinking of the best gift you can give them or something to mark a celebration, consider the gift of travel.
