A family trip is a wonderful time for parents and children to bond. Time flies by fast. One minute, you’re nursing a newborn, and before you know it, your “baby” is leaving the nest at 18. In the meantime, you can use these tips to create memories that last a lifetime through family getaways.
1. Ignite the Hype
You can build up anticipation for the trip days, weeks, or months ahead of time. Encourage your child to research the destination to dig up some fascinating facts.
For instance, they can read online articles, check out books from the library, or watch videos. Children can get a kick out of learning a secret or hidden gem that makes their eyes light up. Getting familiar with the vacation enhances their excitement for the trip.
2. Let Kids Choose Activities
Ask your child to list the things they want to do on the trip. Together, as a family, you can make a final decision. That sounds easy enough, right? But what if you have more than one child?
Chris and Jenni Graebe, the authors of The Rhythm of Home: Five Intentional Practices for a Thriving Family Culture, have figured out an easy way to engage their children in the trip-planning process.
The couple has five children, ages 7 through 18, with different personalities and interests. Some of their kiddos prefer thrilling adventures, while others like calm, relaxing pursuits.
The Graebes have each child pick an activity or two that they enjoy. The parents say, “We try to make sure every trip we take includes a handful of both activities.” This approach inspires the children to step outside their comfort zones for a livelier summer break.
3. Collect Souvenirs
Do you give your child an allowance? If yes, encourage them to set aside a portion for the trip. They can use their “fun money” to purchase a souvenir. When browsing the different shops, marketplaces, and stores, children are bound to see something that attracts their eyes.
Instead of turning to you to buy a collectible, they can purchase what they want as long as it’s within their budget. A few souvenir ideas include fridge magnets, postcards, key rings, and t-shirts.
This activity is a fun way to teach them about money management skills. Aside from that, collecting souvenirs reminds them of the special times you as a family spent together.
“What did you do for the summer?” is a question they will encounter when they return to school in the fall. With their souvenirs, they can show off what they bought and brag about the awesomeness of their travels.
4. Let Kids Capture the Moment
Unleash your child’s inner shutterbug. Put them in charge of documenting the trip. Taking photos keeps them present and engaged. Plus, they get to capture the events through their eyes.
You can collaborate with your child to turn the vacation photos into a book. They can write captions or a story. Other options include creating photo collages or placing the images in a digital photo frame.
These hands-on projects are a surefire way to leave a positive, lasting impression on the family for years to come.
5. Ditch Tech Devices
Sometimes, you have to disconnect to connect. Yes, it’s tough to turn off the smartphone for hours at a time. Sure, you may be tempted to flip open the laptop to sneak in some work.
Computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones are an integral part of life. But remember, a vacation is all about the family. Don’t let devices rob you of having meaningful conversations, engaging in the local scene, and enjoying the moment.
Whether this is your first family trip or the 18th, you want to get the most out of it. Try any of these tips to keep those family getaways fresh, exciting, and, of course, memorable.
