TRAVEL GUIDE

Traveling With Young Children

When you first begin to travel with young children there are several new concepts to keep in mind. If you follow these tips and plan ahead accordingly, you and your family will have a more enjoyable vacation.

Choose A Destination That Is Family-Friendly

Many parents are eager to rush off to the theme park or other popular tourist attractions with small children that have never traveled before. A better suggestion is a relaxing beach or resort that caters to young children. Choose a destination that isn't crowded, has lots of shade, and doesn't involve a lot of walking or site seeing. Kids can become over stimulated and get cranky when there is too much going on around them. Be sure to look for a hotel that lets kids stay for free. Many of these hotels will allow for kids to eat for free as well.

Start Small

Take short trips in the car to prepare your child and to see how they adjust. Move up to weekend getaways before you take a long vacation. Be sure to convey excitement and your child will take her cues from you. If you have a positive attitude about preparing for your vacation, explain where you are going and the types of activities you will be doing, your child will be eager for a long trip experience.

Flexibility Counts

Don't plan to pack in a full day's worth of activities. Children like to explore at their own pace so too much walking or sitting can spoil their experience. It is much easier to plan for only one activity a day, then you can add on if things are going well. Don't be surprised if one day your child wants to spend the entire afternoon in the hotel swimming pool.

Bring A Backpack

Your vacation will be filled with car rides, restaurants, and lots of waiting, none of which children deal with very well. Think of all of the techniques you use at home and pack whatever you need into a backpack. Toys, games, books, and don't forget the snacks . It is guaranteed that your child will not make it to every meal without getting hungry well beforehand. It is also a good idea to always have a drink of some sort with you at all times.

Plan For Breaks

With all of that food and water you will be feeding your child, they will need to use the restroom. If you don't plan ahead, they will need to go at the worst moment possible. Plan for breaks just so your child has a chance to run around and explore on his own, maybe even burn off some excess energy or take a nap. Bring along a ball or other toys that you can use outside. Try a picnic or just stop at a park or playground along the way. Your hotel should know of some local ones. You can also check travel books and online city guides.

Safty First

It is always a good idea to check your hotel room for problems before letting your child loose. Make sure there is nothing on the floor that a toddler could swallow. Ask your hotel for a childproofing kit or bring your own. A small first aid kit is also a good idea. If you are renting a car seat, make sure it is the right size for your child and that it is installed properly. Sunscreen and a sun hat are a must if you are going to be outside. Dress your child in brightly colored clothing so they can be spotted easily in case you are separated. Also, be sure to fill out the emergency information form and have a copy with both parents and even your child so you are prepared for any emergency.