 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Holidays with the grandchildren |
 |
 |
Share |
|
Laviinia Dhanagunan
Travelling with grandchildren can be fun, a challenge or
both. LAVIINIA DHANAGUNAN takes a look at how this time spent together can be
turned into something special.
TO some children, grandparents are a constant figure in
their lives, be it at home or on holiday. When travelling with young ones, make
sure there are enough activities to keep the little ones happy and busy but
make sure that these activities do not wear you out.
Get the
kids involved: The best thing to do is plan the trip together as this
means the children can also contribute ideas and activities that everyone can
enjoy. Try and weave their ideas into the travel plan as much as possible.
Look for
deals and discounts: There are many tourist attractions that offer
special deals for senior citizens and children. Keep an eye out for travel
bargains as this can help to cut costs. Also look out for discounted packages
by companies that offer special discounts to attract seniors and children.
Keep
tempers in check: If there´s an occasion that frustrates or makes you
lose your temper while travelling, take a step back and relax before going off
on an angry spiel. The little ones are watching and will pick up whatever they
see. This is a good chance to instill good values on them. Use the trip to
educate them on good manners and on how to be a good sport. Treat the people
you meet with respect and this will, in turn be passed on to them.
Put health
and safety first: Be aware of any health, diet or activity
requirements the kids have and keep these in mind while planning the trip. Don´t
forget about your own requirements.
Make sure you bring all the necessary medications for both
you and the children for the length of the trip. If it´s the kind that requires
a prescription, get your doctor to write out extra forms for refills.
It´s best to bring along a letter from your children in case
you need to prove that you have written permission from the parents. Include contact
details, just to be on the safe side.
Set aside
activity time: There may be instances of waiting periods, so include
something suitable for the children to do during such times. While a book may
be sufficient for you, pack audio-cassettes, games and other activities in a
hand-carry baggage for the small ones. It will come in handy.
Get your
creative juices flowing: On the trip, keep an eye or ear out for things that
will engage the children. Look out for places that allow children to get
involved in activities so they will have fun and a chance to work out their
energy. Remember, a tired child makes for an easier bedtime.
Forget
routines. Switch things around. In between running and walking,
allow for quiet activities like snack-time or watch a film. This will also help
you maintain your energy levels around theirs.
Remember
to factor in time for unexpected activities, though. Rushing to meet a
schedule can make things tense, so allow for some extra "waste" time
to keep the mood relaxed and fun. It helps you bond better with the children.
Create a
memento: Children have short memories. So keep a scrapbook of the
places you have visited together. Make it interesting by inserting brochures,
pictures and notes about what happened, both good and bad. Years later, this
will remind them how much fun you all had together.
Source : Travel Times, New Straits Times – 9 February 2010
| ||||||
| ||||||
