Make the Family Holiday Memorable For Your Child

Younger children in particular aren't likely to recognise and remember significant family moments. Here’s a list of tips and activities to make your family holiday memorable for them, as well as memorable (and peaceful) for yourself.

Works a ‘treat’
Particularly for lengthy flights and car rides, children may get restless and tired. Keep them entertained by packing a small bag of affordable toys of different sorts (appropriate to their age). Each half hour to an hour, present them with a new toy. It’s likely to keep them amused and well-behaved. Don’t forget to pack some snacks, too.

Rested, not restless
If you’re travelling by car, try to take a 20 minute pause every two hours. Look out for parks and rest stops. A change of scenery will be nice and refreshing, and it’s important to stretch when sitting for long periods of time.

Disposable cameras
Buy an inexpensive disposable camera for your child to carry around during the holiday. When you get home you can create a memory book from your child’s perspective. They make lovely keepsakes!

Postcard stories
Buy a postcard or two for your child at each destination. Writing stories or moments on the back of postcards will help them remember their holiday. Get them to include the date and place names too. You can punch a hole in the bottom corner of each postcard and place them on a key ring, for a fun way to document their trip.

Get them involved
Go through your holiday plans with your child or children before you leave. Show them travel brochures or photos in books or on the internet. As you make your way there, point out buildings, parks and places. Share your excitement with them.