Holidaying with the kids should be an exciting prospect – an opportunity to spend time as a family without the toil of work and chores getting in the way. With plenty of cheap holiday deals available online, there’s nothing stopping you and the brood from getting away for a week or two this summer – and with the school’s having broken up, you need as much help as you can get to ensure your youngsters stay entertained. What better way than a stint in the sun?
Of course, what should be an exciting prospect can often fill parents’ minds with dread – what if my little rascal misbehaves and causes more trouble than it’s worth? Knowing how to keep your kids in check, even with the interrupted routine, can help to make the difference between a holiday success and a fiasco, and these top tips can come in mega handy.
When choosing a holiday, opt for one that is openly family-friendly. Think pools, kids clubs, evening entertainment and near to a beach. While you may be happy wandering around ancient ruins and browsing the shops, your kids will be happy with a lilo and a bucket and spade. If you want a successful family beach break, put their needs above yours.
The time in the airport can be the most strenuous, especially when you have delays to deal with and screaming tots in tow. If you have younger children, invest in a Trunki for each of them – a funky suitcase with wheels – that they can whizz around the airport on as well as providing handy storage. Plus, the dimensions mean that they can be carried on as hand luggage, so you don’t have to worry about having to have them stowed at the check-in desk.
Pack plenty of things that can keep them entertained – puzzle books, handheld video games, crayons and toys etc. Take enough to occupy them, without going over the weight limit.
Most of all, remember that kids don’t have the same amount of energy as we do – while they may love a day trip one day, don’t expect them to be complete angels if you take them on another excursion the next. And remember, they thrive off of you and will pick up on your negativity – stay chilled and enjoy yourselves!
