Posted on July 12, 2011 by Kathryn

With summer holiday’s in full swing and your family vacation approaching, your thoughts may wonder to warm sunny days, sitting on the beach watching your kids build a sand castle. Oh what a perfect picture!

Reality check! How do you create a relaxing, exciting and enjoyable family vacation?

1.   Let go of your expectations. Kids will be kids and the sequence of events will be what they will be. It’s how you react that will make the difference.

2.   Prepare your kids for the trip. Talk about what the experience will be like. Show pictures of your destination, even look it up on Google Earth.

3.   Once at destination, have some “down” time. The sightseeing and new surroundings can be very overwhelming for little ones. Some “normal” time by the pool or at a playground will help the kid’s relax and recharge, not to mention you, too.

4.   Budget for souvenirs and the “must-haves” for the kids. Spread the budget out. Have a per day allotment so the kids can buy something each day of the vacation.

5.   Before you leave, take the kids out on an adventure and buy luggage together. Get a small, yet cool, carry on case for the kids to pack books, crayons and paper or video games. Entertainment for the kids while waiting for your next flight or train or on a long road trip is very important.

6.   When traveling by plane, remember to book your seats together and take advantage of the pre-boarding call for families. Everyone will feel more relaxed when the family is settled before the rush of other passengers.

Family vacations are a great way to help your kids discover their world. They create wonderful memories that you can share and relive with your children for years to come. A little preparation and planning will help create a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.

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