Vacation Tips for Toddlers Thru Teens

While the before-kids vacation—good book, quiet strolls on the beach, uninterrupted conversation—maybe be over for now, family vacations can still be loads of fun at every age and stage if you keep the following guidelines in mind:

Babies: If you don’t count the boatload of stuff you need to lug along for your little one, babies are actually quite portable. Enjoy activities with an adult focus—sightseeing, museums, hiking, and more—while baby sleeps or looks around in the stroller or carrier. Count on occasional interruptions for feedings, diaper changes, and some one-on-one cuddling.

Toddlers and preschoolers: Kids this age are “all about me” and your vacation really needs to be all about them too. Keep things simple: playgrounds, parks, and petting zoos are fun options. Plan for short visits and bring snacks and small toys like books and balls. If your trip is an overnighter, bring some comforts from home (stuffed animal, favorite blanket).

School-age kids: The natural curiosity of a school-age child makes sightseeing fun. Consider kids’ interests—geography, art, sports, music, history—and their attention spans as you decide where to go. Create excitement in advance by looking at images of some of the things you’ll see when you arrive. The rule of thumb here is that a little educational activity goes a long way, so be sure to space things out a bit—opt for half-day tours followed by a special snack and time to play or swim. Great options: campgrounds, science and nature museums, beaches, amusement parks, historical monuments.

Teens: Find out what your teen’s idea of a great vacation is and include those ideas as you plan. Since sleeping late is the teenaged equivalent of a toddler’s afternoon nap, you’ll want to avoid early morning jaunts. And to promote family togetherness, set a technology-and-texting-free time period each day. (Sure they’ll complain at first, but it’s worth the hassle.) Consider any visible excitement your teen shows a bonus, and don’t feel discouraged if their outward emotions aren’t the reactions you were hoping for---inside they may be really enjoying themselves. Fun things to try: adventure sports, amusement parks, resorts and exploring big cities.

Remember—what kids of any age love most about a family vacation (whether your teen shows it or not!) is quality time with you. Above all, plan to give your kids some undivided attention and leave ample time for simple memory-making activities like eating ice cream, playing games, and collecting treasures together.