Family Travel Tips
Traveling as a family is lots of fun but it can be a lot of stress too. Over the years we have started several traditions which reduce some of the stress and create some wonderful memories. Here are a few that are easy to add into your next trip:
Collect aside a bag of small toys (inexpensive options include happy meal style toys or items from the dollar store or clearance sections) that are new to your child. Wait until about half way to your destination then start distributing toys at a specified interval. Children are easier to entertain at the beginning of the trip so it's best to wait until they are bored and less easily amused to begin handing out your surprises.
Make a story round while traveling in the car or airplane. Mom or Dad starts a silly story then let each person have a turn adding a few lines. You can make the story go on for as long or as short as you would like. If possible, record the story and let the kids enjoy playing it back.
Be sure to explore some of the lesser known attractions. Some of our fondest memories are of small attractions not usually found in travel books.
Give each child a disposable camera for the trip. Make extra copies of each child's prints for siblings to have as well. Each child can put together a scrapbook using the variety of photos-- what fun for each child to have a momento through the eyes of themselves and siblings.
Get each child a small notebook and have them prepare a passport before leaving on vacation. Designate 2 pages for each state. They can write details about the state (such as population, capital, state bird, etc), research attractions and draw the state flag. As you pass through each state "stamp" or write the date on the appropriate page. They can add extra details that they learn along the journey.
Take a family photo at your favorite attraction on each trip. Have the photo made into a jigsaw puzzle (you can order them at most photo developers). Pull out puzzles during the cold, winter months and relive the happy memories!
For more tips, activity reviews and listings of kids eat free restaurants, visit our website at www.familyfriendlyamerica.com
Collect aside a bag of small toys (inexpensive options include happy meal style toys or items from the dollar store or clearance sections) that are new to your child. Wait until about half way to your destination then start distributing toys at a specified interval. Children are easier to entertain at the beginning of the trip so it's best to wait until they are bored and less easily amused to begin handing out your surprises.
Make a story round while traveling in the car or airplane. Mom or Dad starts a silly story then let each person have a turn adding a few lines. You can make the story go on for as long or as short as you would like. If possible, record the story and let the kids enjoy playing it back.
Be sure to explore some of the lesser known attractions. Some of our fondest memories are of small attractions not usually found in travel books.
Give each child a disposable camera for the trip. Make extra copies of each child's prints for siblings to have as well. Each child can put together a scrapbook using the variety of photos-- what fun for each child to have a momento through the eyes of themselves and siblings.
Get each child a small notebook and have them prepare a passport before leaving on vacation. Designate 2 pages for each state. They can write details about the state (such as population, capital, state bird, etc), research attractions and draw the state flag. As you pass through each state "stamp" or write the date on the appropriate page. They can add extra details that they learn along the journey.
Take a family photo at your favorite attraction on each trip. Have the photo made into a jigsaw puzzle (you can order them at most photo developers). Pull out puzzles during the cold, winter months and relive the happy memories!
For more tips, activity reviews and listings of kids eat free restaurants, visit our website at www.familyfriendlyamerica.com
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