Travel Planning Tips By Children's Age
Travel tips from Dr. Jen Hartstein
Travel planning doesn't need to be limited to family members of a certain age. There are ways to include your family whether they're young — or young at heart!
View bioPre-Schoolers and Younger
Get Inspired
Before the trip even begins, read books or show movies about
different places and cultures to the kids going on the trip.
This gives children a basic understanding of how diverse the
world is and how through travel, you're able to see and
experience everything that other places and cultures have to
offer.
Count it Down
Create a countdown calendar and have the child going on the
trip cross off each day leading up to the trip. This will
give them a better understanding of when the trip is
happening and spark excitement!
School-Age Children
Try Out a New Cuisine
Once the destination has been picked, choose a night that
your family can cook a recipe that is authentic to where
you're headed. We know some kids can be picky eaters, so
this provides a great opportunity for them to try a new
cuisine beforehand.
Collaborate, then Assign
Collaborate in choosing a destination. Then assign each
child a vacation day to plan. Allow them to choose where to
go, what to do, and where to eat. This gives them a sense of
freedom, knowing they were able to help make your trip
memorable. If the children traveling with you are on the
younger side, set some guardrails and help with the research
as you choose some hot spots together.
Hold a Packing Party
Sit down with the kids going on the trip and make a list of
what they'll need (and, let's be honest, want) to pack.
Divide the list into categories that will help them organize
their thoughts, and then have them pack by themselves. By
having them take the reins a little, you are giving kids
some freedom and responsibility.
Teens
Planning Ownership
So, you've picked a destination! Now, allow the teenagers to
be part of the planning process by making plans. Whether
it's a dinner reservation or buying tickets to a show,
giving your teen ownership provides them a first glance into
the magical world of planning.
Setting the Budget
Consider having the teen who is traveling with you manage
the trip budget. They can use a travel budget app or
worksheet to ensure everything stays on track. If you don't
feel comfortable sharing a budget with your family, show
them potential examples so they can gauge the spending level
you're envisioning or work to set parameters.
Give Everyone Time to Share
Listen to your teen, interruption-free when they share
ideas; even if they're unrealistic or out of budget. Allow
them time to voice why they think their ideas would be a
good option, so they don't feel like their opinion doesn't
matter.
Imagine Your Plans Together
Need some inspiration as you plan your next family vacation? Download the resources below for some fun-filled activities that will get everyone excited about your upcoming trip.
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