People always used to ask us, when our gingers Rainer & Atticus were tiny tots, “Why travel with your kids if they won’t even remember it?”
We have always believed that even when the RAM of our brain cannot recall our nascent
experiences on planet Earth, our HARD DRIVE does. And so our kids simply never had a choice when it came to travel. By the time they were 4 and 6, respectively, they had already been to Spain, Mexico and a dozen states across the USA.
As Americans, one of the only things my wife and I feel unabashedly patriotic about is our National Park System (we have been to more than 200 of the 400+ units spread across
the nation). Before our boys were old enough to remember, they had stood at the base of the Lincoln Memorial, climbed Bubble Rock in Acadia, splashed in waves at
Fire Island National Seashore, and hiked through Joshua Tree National Park.
Today, when we ask Atticus, now 11, and Rainer, 13, if they recall some of those early trips and destinations, they often do not. Their brains remember, though, as neuro-pathways are etched by early experiences to form the people we become as fully conscious children and adults. Despite not recalling our early adventures, both boys became fully accustomed to travel and all that goes with it.
So many parents have complained to us that, by the time THEY are ready to travel with their children (because now they will “remember it” and the money won’t be
“wasted”) their KIDS aren’t ready for travel. They whine in the car, on the plane, and absolutely do not appreciate the process of being pushed out of their comfort zone. We say: all the more reason not to wait.
Analogy time: We read board books to both of our boys from the moment they could open their eyes. Could they read along? Do they remember those books? No. Did reading to and with them every day carve pathways of
literacy and connection into their brains? Yes. Is it a coincidence both boys were reading independently by the time they were three? We don’t think so.
These days, when we tell our boys we are going to Egypt in a few months, they raise their hands in triumph, then go on with whatever it was they were doing. When
our departure date rolls around, they know how to pack, what to bring, what to expect, how to manage wait times and unforeseen obstacles, and how to appreciate the small things and unique moments experienced along the way.
All that time we put in, traveling with them as infants and toddlers, pays off every time we step
out the door with these tall redheads who now have questions and interests of their own. The more they communicate about their travel likes and dislikes, too, the more we tailor our adventures to their needs.
Our advice? DO NOT WAIT!!! Take that trip whether your children will retain conscious memories or not. Travel whether you think the money will be “worth it” or not. We promise: it will be. You will all reap the rewards, both in the moment and far beyond.
]]>Here are 4 sanity-saving tips to make your next skiing trip the memorable experience you WANT it to be.
Let us help you plan a successful family skiing holiday this winter.
With little kids, it is important to make spending time in the snow an enjoyable experience and not a forced one. Whilst kids can start skiing at 3 years old, do keep in mind that they can only manage an hour or two each day max. Push them longer and the experience may sour. You want your kids begging to go back the next day, not crying because they don’t want to go. Take care never to let your kids get too cold, as children won't enjoy skiing if they are cold. Consider a ski trip at the end or start of the season when the temperatures may be a little warmer.
Make sure your kids try on their ski gear and wear them around the house before you go. Double-check that everything fits well and fastens up as required. Make sure to pack double the number of socks and gloves that you think you will need too. There is nothing worse than cold wet fingers or toes.
Skiing with kids is unpredictable and tiring. Having a place to rest that is close to the mountains is a luxury worth spending on. It will allow you to give the kids a nap at lunchtime and be the first and the last on the mountain, since you do not need to negotiate a long commute home like many others.
Unless you are an expert skier, and an expert instructor chances are pretty good you aren’t the person to teach your own kids’ proper technique. Investing in a fun ski school will set your kids off on the right foot and make skiing a fun experience that they can do with other children too. If you plan to put your child in ski school, many ski fields include their lift ticket and ski rentals bundled into the cost of the ski school – so it really works out a great deal too.
You can also make sure your kids get the most out of the ski vacation with the Kids’ Travel Guide — Ski.
The best gift for a ski vacation. The best skiing book - for the kids and the whole family! Together with Leonardo, their very own ski guide, your kids will have so much fun discovering about the history of winter sports, basic ski and snowboard terms and positions, the different lifts that take them up the mountain, and all the exciting things that happen at a ski resort.
]]>There are plenty of ways to teach your kids about different countries right in the comforts of your home. Using a few resources and lots of creativity, they will find this topic interesting and utterly fun!
But before we jump in to these activities, it’s worth asking the question – why should we even bother to teach our kids about world culture?
Well, there are many reasons, here are some of them:
Alright, let’s go ahead and learn about fun ways to teach our kids about world cultures this back-to-school season!
Activity books that take them to various places and countries are among the best tools that help expand our children’s knowledge on world cultures. It’s always interesting to know about how other people from different parts of the globe do things, what their food tastes like, what their language and history is, and how to properly interact with them. Choose interactive books that encourage kids to write, color, solve puzzles, answer quizzes, and take on simple tasks that will make their learning journey fun and engaging!
Another way to learn about and remember a new country or culture is through tactile experience, such as in the form of arts and crafts. For instance, if they’re studying Japan, you can have them try Shodo – a Japanese art of calligraphy or the world-famous origami – the Japanese art of folding paper to create decorative art. If they’re studying Spain, have your kids make their own Maracas using small paper bags, water-based paints, and some dried beans.
After such a fun and tiring activity, why not prepare your kids a traditional dish from that country they’re learning about? Ramen and noodles are popular in China, Japan and Korea, fish ‘n chips and Shepherd's' pie are a must-try in UK, and tamales in Mexico. You don’t need hire a native chef to cook an authentic foreign dish for you. You can simply Google a recipe. You will surely find a good one!
Learning a foreign language is fun for kids. While you can always resort to enrolling them in a language class, you don’t really have to just so they can learn about a different culture. You will find video tutorials online where your kids can learn some basic foreign words and sentences. So, by the time you visit, say Japan or Germany, your little ones will be able to say things like “thank you” or “Nice to meet you” the way locals from that country do. It’s a fun learning experience for parents like you, too!
Countries like the UK, New Zealand, and Australia observe “Boxing Day” wherein locals give presents to their friends and family. Apart from that, they also give money and charitable donations to people in need. To celebrate this special occasion, let your kids “box” unused personal items or some canned goods to donate to charity. Chinese New Year is also a fun celebration popular worldwide. Why not prepare some Chinese treats, give gifts of money in red envelopes, and put up red decorations? It’s going to be fun!
Learning about world cultures benefit your kids in so many ways. Hopefully, these fun and easy activities can make their educational journey even more fun and engaging!
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Check out our Kids' Travel Guide series and maps for kids. Now, more than ever! Teach your kids about the world!
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So much fun and learning for such reasonable and affordable price. These are awesome products and can make your summer more productive by learning about different places in the world or in the USA.
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Are your kids obsessed with Legos? Then why don’t you take them to the Legoland Resort in California where they can play with Duplos, attend fun shows and events, drive a mini car, and see how Legos are made. There are so many things to see and experience in Legoland that are perfect for the whole family, including waterpark attractions and activities like the Lost Kingdom Adventure, The Dragon, Lego Ninjago Ride, and Splash Battle. You could even stay at the Legoland Hotel for an even more Lego-life experience! It is important, however, to book your tickets in advance as you might end up wasting your time waiting in line. Water and snacks are imperative to bring although you will find many restaurants around the park.
This vast water park sits in 65 acres of land! No doubt it’s considered one of the best waterparks in the world. There are fun activities for kids of all ages, from toddlers and preschoolers to teenagers. For small kids, there are plenty of attractions to check out, such as the Butterfly Bayou, Tadpole Kiddie Pool, and the Pollywog Pond. For bigger kids, there’s an uphill water coaster, along with speed slides, giant conveyors, and tube chutes, to name a few. And of course, there are great water activities for adults too!
Definitely a dream park for the young, and the young at heart too! The park has plenty of stations with candy-themed names. Your little kids will surely have a blast from the 20 kiddie rides, along with a train ride, a sprinkler area, and of course – the kiddie pool! The fun doesn’t end there. There are 13 roller coasters for your bigger kiddos. Don’t worry, there are nursing and a few quiet locations just in case you need a break because definitely, the endless activities at the Hershey Park will drain your energy! But it’s definitely worth the visit.
If you ever go to Ohio, don’t miss to experience the thrilling rides at the Cedar Point – regarded as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World. But apart from the coaster, your whole family can enjoy many other rides, plus a dinosaur encounter. They have a Kiddy Kingdom for little kids to explore, where they can ride dune buggies, a mini helicopter, and the Gemini Midway especially designed for kids who are not yet ready for big rides. For your teens, the roller coasters are obviously the best choice. Plus, they can get up close with 50 huge animatronic dinos. There are also shows, love entertainment, and a variety of dining options for the whole family.
Some of the best experiences come from the movies! So if your kids want to experience what it’s like to be at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade, or the Marvel Super Hero Island, the Universal's Islands of Adventure is the place to go. There are play areas throughout the park, including water activities so make sure to pack some swimsuits for your little ones. The new coasters and rides are something to watch out too!
Disneyland is surely a top choice for every family vacation especially in the US. But if you’ve been to this place many times already, or you just want to experience something different on your next trip, be sure to check out these parks. Each of them offers fun activities and an amazing experience for you and your kids!
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Your kids can learn a lot on famous American cities even from home! Kids' Travel Guide series is full of resources, activities and fun things to learn about New York City, Washington, DC, San Francisco and more cities.
Enjoy 40% off on all selected Kids' Travel Guide - USA Use series NOW!
Use code: USACITY
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Being on the road for a long amount of time is not always easy. You may find sleeping in confined spaces and making do with communal amenities at campgrounds to be stressful at times.
Check out our 5 golden tips for a stress-free RV road trip with kids…
Plan ahead and keep your head even under stress, and you’ll manage to make some amazing memories out of this trip around the USA.
]]>From the moment you start traveling with your kids, they are your main priority. You choose the location, the activities, the place to stay only based on what is best for them, thinking that if they are not fully satisfied and comfortable, you will suffer too. Still, you – the parents – need your own moments of relaxation. So how do you balance kids’ fun with few moments for yourself?
One idea would be to have a trip, even a short one, just for you. But most of the times you lack the budget or the time for it or you don’t have someone trustworthy enough to leave the children with. Also, spending quality time with your little ones is very important, so you will most definitely travel together.
But there are ways of balancing your kids’ needs with at least a few hours of relaxation. Here are some ideas:
If you are traveling with another family with children (or without, even better!), you can agree that you will take care of their kids for a few hours and then they will return the favor. Maybe you will say that having to babysit not only your little ones but a bunch of energy-full kids, is extremely complicated. But if you are inventive enough it will be fine. You can choose to stay with them during their afternoon nap or after dinner, you can involve them in some group activities (for example: make a puzzle, play cards, build a sandcastle, stage a play, etc.) and the time will fly.
Find a playground or an activity center where your children are not only supervised by qualified personnel but also involved in some educational activities, sports, arts and they will have fun. Don’t always count on finding this type of service at the hotel (although many will offer it), but search in advance the Internet to see what are the available options. You will be surprised how many such places are opened and you can see the scheduled workshops for the period you will be traveling. This way you will be able to choose those activities that best fit your children’s age, character, and taste.
Alright. Maybe you’re not into touring museums or feeding kangaroos. But definitely, there are activities or destinations that everyone – you and your kids – will enjoy. It could be watching a sports event, eating your favorite dish (or cuisine), fishing, or strolling in the park. Choosing a place or activity that the whole family enjoys is like hitting two birds with one stone – you’ve got something that you and your kids can happily engage in.
No matter where you are going and what kind of family trip you are having, there are going to be idle moments for sure. To shook boredom away, bring something that will keep them entertained, such as activity books, their favorite toys, music, and games. It’s a great way to keep your children from bothering you while you give yourself some downtime, even in the hotel room.
No matter the option you go for, always leave a phone number where you can be reached in emergency cases, give all relevant details about your kids (in case they have any allergy or they are under medication), and enjoy your moments! You deserve them! And such times of comfort make us more relaxed, more sympathetic to our kids’ needs and droll, happier together.
Happy traveling!
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Check out our Kids' Travel Guide series and maps for kids. Now, more than ever! Teach your kids about the world!
]]>Barcelona is a city fit for a family adventure. The history, culture, architecture, cuisine, shopping, and educational opportunities for a family are never-ending. Go ahead book a trip for the family today. Visit Barcelona!
Antoni Gaudi I Cornet is a Catalan architect. His home/museum is situated in Parc Guell. As you tour the grounds, you will be guided by an audio tour via radio. There are no set tour times; you may start as you enter the grounds or house. It opens at ten and closing time varies during the year, but the times are posted at the site and online. Inside and outside you will discover examples of the fantasy and fairytale type Gaudi work such as the home and the furniture in the home. The children will love the dragon sculpture.
http://www.parkguell.es/en/portada
Rambla extends from the city center to the port. The three-kilometer walk runs through five distinct districts before it ends at the Columbus statue. Your children will love the street show for kids in La Boqueria market. To dip your family into the middle of culture, food, and people of the city include this tree-lined wide walkway on your Barcelona itinerary.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/La-Rambla/_xMCfM9AMDl_lKCezjRpMoGJiIpYeTZYhe7lbJhRdnng
Photo by Iván Melenchón Serrano
Built-in just one year for the World Fair 1929, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc delights visitors of all ages, coming from all around the world. Highly recommended if you come to Barcelona with your family, it is an artistic mixture of water plays, music, lights, and colors.
Despite restorations after the Civil War and the complete renovation before the 1992 Olympic Games, the Magic Fountain keeps most of its original mechanisms.
Every second, 2,600 liters of water are pumped through the fountain, using a water recirculation system, to create a spectacular show, with plays of water and waterfalls. Kids will enjoy it to the max!
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
http://www.bcn.cat/parcsijardins/fonts/EN/magica.html
Tibidabo is a 100-years old park symbolizing Barcelona, a place you cannot miss if you are visiting the city with your kids. There are over 25 rides that you can try, from classical trains for small children to themed routes that carry the children into a fairy world, crashing cars and a rollercoaster. You and the kids can have a good laugh visiting Miramiralls, the famous hall of mirrors, one of the first attractions in the Park. Also, you shouldn’t miss the Sky Walk, offering a marvelous overview of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Take your kids into a cable-car ride to visit Barcelona’s castle of Montjuïc. Built starting with 1640, originally a fortress, then a castle and even a prison during the Spanish Civil War, it serves today as a municipal facility and some of it for military purposes. Spending a few hours at the Montjuïc Castle is one of those moments when you can mix your desire for visiting famous tourists attractions with the kids’ desire to play and have fun. Furthermore, you can enjoy a picnic lunch, grabbing something to eat from one of the food kiosks available, and relax into the wide-open green spaces.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
http://www.castillomontjuic.com/
The family theme park is located in south Barcelona and will require extra transportation means. The metro has a nearby stop. It is Spain’s biggest theme park and well-loved. Millions experience it every year. It is divided into six separate historic regions: Mediterranean, Far West, Mexico, China, Polinesia, and SesamoAventura. It also features parades and shows. Additionally, there is also an adjacent family water park.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
http://www.portaventura.co.uk/barcelona
For decades the solely green area of Barcelona, Parc de la Ciutadella is probably one of the most fashionable, yet beautiful attractions of the city. The park takes its name from the star-shaped fortress built at the beginning of the 18th century by King Philips V, whose chapel, Governor’s palace and arsenal still survive today. The last holds the Catalan Parliament.
Besides being the home of the famous Parc Zoologic and several museums, the park offers endless possibilities for the entire family. Three playground areas, well equipped and sometimes holding workshops will surely attract the kids, while you can admire the beautiful Cascada, the monumental fountain with an arch and waterfall, said to be inspired by Antoni Gaudí.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
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Traveling with their little ones is many parents’ dreams. But not everyone has enough resources and time to do so. Well, the thing is we don’t have to be rich nor do we have to wait until our kids get a little older, to start an epic journey to the best destinations in the world. That’s what exactly this family of four proved. From hiking in their own backyard to exploring different countries around the world, Mr. and Mrs. Campitelli left their life in Canada to travel with their two kids.
You’ve probably seen some of their fun adventures on YouTube, and beautiful travel photos on Instagram.
Surely, family travel has its twists and turns. And it isn’t all cheers and laughter, especially when you have kids.
But if there’s a will, there’s a way! It’s time to get some great tips and inspiration from one of our Family Tribe members, a full-time family traveler and how traveling strengthened their bond and relationship as a family.
The Campitelli family seeks to inspire families to create their own adventures by doing our own adventures. They’ve been to some of the most popular destinations in Europe, Asia, and Western Australia. On this interview, we asked the Campitellis to share their travel stories, and how they managed to explore the world with two little kids!
Traveling long term has been a dream of ours since University. After graduating we had a lot of student loan debt so we had to jump into our careers straight away. The dream never left us so we planned and saved for many years to be able to take the leap. We are from Canada so seeing far away places like SE Asia and Europe was so exciting for us!
We took six months off of regular life to travel full time. I had a leave of absence from work, Marco was recently laid off and the kids were pulled from their schools with the full support of their principals. The timing was right!
We kicked off our six-month journey by flying to London and taking the train directly to Paris. From their, we visited Italy, Croatia, and Greece. Next was Thailand, Western Australia, Bali, Malaysia, Japan, and Hawaii. We traveled from September 1st, 2018 to early March 2019. Prior to that, we had a two-week vacation in Costa Rica in Spring 2018.
Our kids are older (8 & 12) so they travel pretty well on long flights and train rides. We load up the iPads with movies and bring lots of snacks. Our strategy for flights has been overnight for the long haul so they can get some sleep and it makes the time go by faster.
For education, we used a variety of tactics. We had them submit learning videos on each country we visited. We followed the teacher blogs and had the kids submit essays about the subjects in the blogs. We had a Math and Language Arts books that they worked from and just world schooling being out and about experience new cultures, new places and different religions. They were required to do about 1-1.5 hours Mon-Friday but they often missed days depending on what we had planned. By the end, we stopped the structured learning and just let them experience the places day to day.
Traveling with our family has definitely brought us closer but we really didn’t realize it until we got back home. There was a lot of battling traveling as we were with each other 24/7 and the education part didn’t go that smoothly with the kids as they weren’t keen on being taught by us. I think our family relates better now and we are much calmer.
There are many benefits to traveling with kids:
They learned about other cultures and how people live so differently in other countries than we do in Canada.
It made them more appreciative of what they have as we saw a lot of poverty in some of the countries. My son said he’d donate all his toys since traveling.
The kids deepened their social skills learning how to make new friends everywhere we went.
They experienced different types of food and even accommodations (e.g. a Japanese traditional home) broadening their minds.
World schooling is more interesting and they retain the information better. For example, our son’s class was learning about early democracy and the Acropolis at the same time we were there so he got to experience it first hand.
Currently, I am back at work full time and Marco is at home working on building our YouTube channel and Blog. Our long-term goal is to work towards a more flexible lifestyle where we are able to travel more often and create videos about our experiences.
Traveling as a family is not pure fun. It comes with challenges too. But it is certainly one of the best experiences ever. Hope ADVENTURE CAMPitelli has given you the inspiration to take that trip you’ve been dreaming about and, as what they say, to “blaze your own trail and find hidden gems off the beaten path”.
]]>But traveling with kids comes with some challenges too. While you are all excited to roam around and explore the best of the country, the fact remains that you are visiting strange places and most of the time, you will find yourself clueless about what to expect, where to go, where to stay, etc. Even the most basic things like prepping up for a tour, finding a place to eat, booking an appointment at a museum can all be daunting.
So, we asked Shannon Kenny, a travel expert and Founder & CEO of Prontopia, to give us some great tips to make family travels in Italy more fun and less stressful.
“Human connection, of course! And deepening my own self-knowledge by understanding the diversity of the human condition, in the context of our common humanity on this planet.
To me, that is the most beautiful thing about traveling, and this also crosses time and space. If I am standing in front of a work of art (such as Michelangelo’s Pieta), or natural monument (such as Grand Canyon), such aesthetic experiences make me feel at the same time a deep sense of personal awareness of who I am, relative to the awe of beauty and emotion that such sites have inspired for so many others. Traveling makes me feel connected.”
“The Italian culture, in general, is very kid-friendly, and so kids are welcomed almost everywhere. Secondly, the history, nature, and food in Italy all offer something for everyone, of all ages.”
“During my 15 years as an entrepreneur in travel, I experienced the ripple effects of infamous disruptions in the industry, such as the rise of Airbnb and the use of smartphones. While these shifts have opened up many opportunities, they have also left gaps.
Information is more widely available than ever, online or in-app but often you just need a real live person. While operating my previous companies and during my own travel as a solo female and as a mom traveling alone with young children, I increasingly observed how the rise of Airbnb and a DIY travel mentality have left a false sense that it is easy to find what you need once you arrive.
In reality, the customer experience today tells a different story as travelers face unforeseen challenges in foreign, walkable city centers getting where they need to go easily, and finding necessities.”
“Prontopia is a California travel tech company that launched in Venice in May 2018, and expanded to Florence and Rome later that year, in October 2018.
We provide immediate in-person help in the city when and where you need it, versus other digital solutions that just provide information. Other differentiators include:
]]>More about Prontopia Founder Shannon Kenny
Shannon holds a Master's Degree in Medieval and Renaissance History. She worked as a published author, editor, and educator in the fields of history, French and Italian language, the social sciences, and educational and boutique travel for over 17 years. After many years of traveling to Italy for both work and pleasure, she founded the international children’s cultural program Arte al Sole in 2007 to serve the needs of families traveling and living abroad. To meet families’ demand for quality and trustworthy travel information, in 2008 she launched Italiakids.com, an online resource for family travel to Italy.
As Italiakids.com grew, readers increasingly reached out to our company with requests for travel concierge trip planning for itineraries that included Italy as well as other destinations in Europe. Due to word-of-mouth referrals among this clientele, Shannon and her team expanded that company by request beyond family travel to design all manner of itineraries, and Elaia Travel was born. Her travel and lifestyle digital content company, ViaPapera also produced the popular Italy travel tip YouTube series, Uno Minuto with Shannon Kenny.
In 2017, she founded Prontopia, an app that gives travelers a way to request on-demand in-person help from locals with common everyday traveler problems, to make trips stress free and full of meaningful connections.
And oh, not to mention the mosquito bites, jet lag, snacks (and more snacks), lost toys (followed by tantrums), and all other nuisances of traveling with kids.
Yes, we all have our stories to tell.
Despite all these, we can all agree that traveling with kids is the best experience ever.
They say a picture paints a thousand words. To get a glimpse of how amazing traveling with kids can be, we asked family travelers to caption this photo.
Their answers reveal so much about the fun, stress, and surprises of traveling with kids which you most probably can relate to!
Have fun reading!
“What? They’re all sleeping? Time to start crying” - @flashpacking_family
“Last man standing.” @adventureswiththehegers
“My master plan to take over the world is falling into place...or was that just my diaper.” @carpingthediems
“They finally fell asleep, now I can really go explore this train.” - @alwaysonthegofamily
“Sums up my life in one picture.” - @jenee_sc
“Yep, I got this, definitely the cutest in this pic.” - @mywelltraveledfriend
“They’re finally asleep, step 1 of my evil plan complete.”- @adventurecampitelli
“Now that they’re asleep, it’s time to have some real fun.” - @ourtravelsoup
“Time to do what I want.” - @globetrotterkin
“They think it’s time to rest but I have other plans for my fam.” - @familybeachtravel
“They all have fallen asleep. Time for me to be hungry or need a diaper change.” - @monicaplus_2
“Who needs sleep when I can party all night.” @tuktuksandtoddlers
“Send caffeine!” @agirlwandering
“Look who’s in charge now.” @three.little.trees
“Sleep training for the win.” @patseyfamilytravels
“I run this show.” @oursquadabroad
“Feed me the cabbage? I will knock you with my diaper.” @thewanderfuladventure
“And they said I needed sleep.” @tinytraveltwo
We also played a little game on who can give us the funniest caption for the photo above where the winner would receive a prize.
We’d like to announce that the winner is @carpingthediems! Congratulations on winning a $20 Amazon Gift Card!
Experienced family travelers will tell you the same thing – plan for everything but let go of expectations. Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Kids are unpredictable. But they are smart. Energetic. Always willing to explore the things around them. More than anything, they are always grateful – appreciating every single place and moment shared with you. And that makes kids the best travel buddies ever!
So, book that flight you’ve been dreaming about. Don’t worry about the nappy changes, jet lag, potty breaks, meltdowns, and the mess. You are going to get over it all. But you can’t miss having a trip of a lifetime with the most important little people in your life.
]]>Whether you’re taking your kids out for a picnic, a city tour, or a weekend visit to their grandpa/ma, the entire journey can either be a bad decision or a fun-filled adventure.
For sure, you want the latter.
So we asked family travelers within the FlyingKids Instagram and Facebook community about their best tips and advice on how we -- parents -- can stay sane while our children stay happy and content during road trips.
And we’ve got some really interesting responses!
If you want a successful road trip with your little ones, keep scrolling. :)
Are your kids always complaining about how bored they are the entire trip?
Boredom is a real issue, especially for very young kids. Even a two-hour drive can cause them to whine. Keeping your children busy and entertained throughout the trip should be one of your top priorities. And if you’re running out of ideas on how to keep them entertained, check out these tips:
“We don’t do many road trips since I get car sick, so we stick to places that can be done in 2-hour segments if possible. Everyone gets a break after 2 hours for food, fresh air, walking around, and potty break!” -- globetrotting.family
When you get to the hotel, let the kiddos go swimming for a while so they can burn off energy stored up from sitting in the car all day!
Pack a separate (small) bag for those quick overnight hotel stays with the essentials and pjs/outfits. Make it easily accessible so you don't have to unload the entire car.
Our favorite car ride game is the alphabet game! Everyone is on a race to find words outside the car (billboards, other cars, restaurants) that start with each letter of the alphabet. First one to complete a z word wins!” -- theflyinghens
On top of everything, you want your kids to feel comfortable, safe, and well the entire trip. From planning some pit stops to arranging nap time, here are some really helpful tips for parents, especially those traveling with their kids for the first time.
The thought of being stuck in the car with kids can cause you a little anxiety. Well, not unless you are prepared. Here are more tips that will definitely make the experience more enjoyable than stressful.
To you dear parent who’s reading this, we want you to know that you got this! Traveling with kids can really be stressful sometimes. But being able to create memories with your little ones -- inside and outside your car -- is definitely one of the best things in the world! Hope these tips from experienced family travelers can help make your next road trip an unforgettable one.
Safe travels!
PS:
We’ve recently launched an awesome family travel community called the FlyingKids Tribe. This means that anyone can submit blogs, videos or photos to us regarding family travel. If you want to join, just click the link below.
]]>It is more than the fun.
Traveling is really good for you and your kids.
Below are some of the best reasons why you should go on a family trip from time to time:
Every family has their own share of stress, challenges and difficulties. Most families spend each day dealing with tasks, deadlines, and many other activities. Unfortunately, these little stressors add up and without you knowing, you are all burned out, anxious, and emotionally unwell. And even if it may seem that they have time for play and rest, even your kids get stressed too! It could be due to schoolwork, peer pressure, extracurricular activities, household duties, and so much more. There’s no doubt that many people travel to relieve stress. Traveling gives you a break from your daily routine. It is an opportunity to have fun, bond as a family, and just enjoy the moment, leaving all your worries behind.
One of the biggest challenges that many parents face especially with their teens is trying to connect and relate to them. Let’s face it. Sometimes teenagers seem to hail from a different planet. Traveling is a perfect opportunity to connect and bond with your kids. Involving them in the whole thing – from planning and choosing a destination to packing – will make you understand them more and relate to them. Also, traveling promotes opportunities for a lifetime of discussion. You will know more about their interests, goals, and other things that they might be too hesitant to share with you in an ordinary day.
Experience is the best teacher, so they say. Traveling as a family is like taking a class without having to be in the classroom! Children are very curious. They like to learn as much as they can. Traveling broadens their horizon as they learn about new cultures, geographies, etc. It also teaches them how to deal with challenging situations in life, socialize with other people, and respect other people’s traditions. Whether using FlyingKids’ Travel Guides, searching the internet before or during your trip or just watching and learning from locals - your kids can learn and get great benefits from being in another place. Even adults learn a lot from traveling too. You will surely discover something new with every place you visit.
Children are very inquisitive and mindful. And these qualities make them perfect travel buddies! Why? Because having them around makes a family see things that they otherwise would have not noticed. Traveling as a family more often also trains you to be more appreciative of the things around you – from the lakes, streams, plants and trees to the moments of just being with the people you love the most.
Taking time to create positive memories together that will be reminisced later on gives every family such a magical feeling. When you go on a trip, give your little kids activity books and journals where they can record their experiences and immerse themselves even further into the beauty of traveling.
These are just a few of the many benefits of traveling as a family. So stop delaying that family vacation you’ve been thinking about. Plan a trip. Pack your bags. And let the journey begin! Remember, all these benefits apply whether you’re traveling afar or close to home. Everyone benefits from a little getaway.
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Check out our Kids' Travel Guide series and maps for kids. Now, more than ever! Teach your kids about the world!
]]>Traveling with kids is like a roller coaster ride. It’s exciting, thrilling, and yet scary. Not only do you worry about packing their stuff, you also have to think about how kids are going to deal with the whole experience of travel. No matter how well behaved, no kid will be the perfect angel... especially when cooped up in a car, train, or plane. Are they going to like the place? Will they get enough sleep? Will they get bored? Will they leave their electronic devices and focus on the new destination and family adventure? What about culture-shock? Will they enjoy exploring new things and places?
The whole travel experience can be wonderful for our children ... when we help them get prepared and let them know the itinerary and what they can expect.
As an adult, you are the decision maker. You’re the one who chooses the destination. You chose the plan, the time and the travel style. Your preparation process probably includes more than a few online searches; reading various blogs; checking Trip-Advisor or other websites for reviews and more information on everything from food to what to see to where to stay.
But it’s different for kids. Very different.
Chances are, the younger your kids – the less involved they will be in the travel planning process. And this makes them less engaged prior to and during your trip.
So whether you’re traveling locally or abroad, making sure your kids have a clear idea of where they are going enables them to get excited and prepare emotionally and mentally for their big family adventure.
If your kids are between about 6 to 10 years, you’ll need to encourage them to learn and become excited about their upcoming travel adventure. Making your kids a part of the learning and planning process does more than make them feel a real part of the trip; it piques their curiosity to learn more. And the more they learn about your destination – the more they become excited and internalize what they’ve learned about a new country and culture.
While there are plenty of downloadable travel activities online, the key to appealing to a kid’s attention is finding information and learning activities that capture and hold their imagination.
For all those reasons and to answer all of those questions and concern, the Kids’ Travel Guide series was created. And it isn’t designed only for road trips, long flights or family vacations. It’s actually a great educational tool that can be used by children at home or in school.
Geography is fascinating. And kids get hooked on it.
Learning about different cultures is enriching and fascinating. And kids love it because it appeals to their imagination.
Kids like discovering new places and learning about history and other people - they just need the right tool to make them curious and enthusiastic learners.
As a parent who might be new to a certain place and shares the same level of curiosity about things to discover, you understand the need to give the kids their own personalized traveling companion.
Leonardo is exactly that.
Leonardo is your child’s very own fun loving travel guide. He answers questions; shares travel tips and things to do, see, and eat; he asks questions; plays trivia and other word and number games, and helps your kids document their trip through written memories and photos. He’ll even help them plan what to pack.
More than a traveling companion, the Kids’ Travel Guide shares interesting facts about your destination: where in the world it is located, what you’re about to see, the most popular tourist attractions, the country’s capital city, beaches, flags and symbols, weather, and borders. And there’s more! Ancient history (yes, even history can be fun for kids), country’s or city’s landmarks, culture and customs, world-famous cuisines, and some of the most important words in the country’s language.
The best thing about the Kids’ Travel Guide series is that information is presented in a fun way that your kids really get into. And when kids have fun... they learn.
One of the most important aspects of any holiday is that kids, like adults, experience and acquire important life lessons. Things like how to interact politely with other people even if you speak a different language; how to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness in every place you visit, and how to treasure the experiences you’ve shared as a family. In the Kids’ Travel Guide there are sections throughout the book where the kids can write their insights, plus a few blank pages for self-reflection and/or journalism.
Pssst - It’s also a great way for parents to learn more about their children and get a peek into their minds, what they are thinking, and what they are feeling.
The Kid’s Travel Guide series is full of many fun and interesting activities for kids to enjoy. It’s an all-in-one package that is sure to make your family’s trip (or learning journey from home) exciting and meaningful.
There are many reasons why many families prefer homeschooling over traditional education, from trying to do away from the negative environment of public schools, to protecting their kids from bullying, aiming for a higher quality education, and more.
But there’s one even more interesting reason – to be able to travel the world. Home education is fluid and adaptable, which makes it a great option for traveling families. Homeschooling and traveling go together – the best of both worlds!
Traveling with kids is fun. But it can be overwhelming sometimes. However, the benefits of traveling together as a family certainly outweigh the hassle, stress and headache that many parents had to endure. More than the joy of seeing new places and creating positive experiences, letting kids travel even at a younger age is a great way to teach them many things, such as:
Appreciation of other culture
Traveling helps children realize that people of different colors, backgrounds, languages, and traditions live in the world too. And it doesn’t matter what the differences are, as long as there is respect, love and understanding.
Adaptability
Being exposed to various situations helps develops children’s flexibility and adaptability, something that can be difficult to learn within the classroom. Going to different places doesn’t always mean fun and play. It could also mean a little discomfort during a delayed flight, extreme tiredness after hours on the road, and some sacrifices when they had to give up a comfortable bed for an adventure in the wild.
Creativity and courage
New experiences mean new learning. Riding an elephant, swimming with the whale sharks, camping in the desert, zip lining in the jungle – traveling stirs every child’s imagination and fuel their creativity. It also gives them confidence and courage to try new things.
You’ve probably heard stories about parents quitting their jobs and giving up their homes and everything to travel the world with their kids. They call it “edventures” – having long-term trips while children learn on the road. Homeschooling while traveling may sound like music to our ears. But it comes with some challenges too.
Making sure that you allocate enough time for your child’s learning activities is one. Another thing, aside from the ‘life skills’, children needs to learn about academic subjects too, from their basic English to science, math, arts, geography, etc. It can be difficult for a homeschooling parent to juggle with travel and teaching tasks from time to time, especially during busy traveling periods.
Fortunately, there are ways to make homeschooling easier and more effective even while you travel. Check out these tips:
1. Bring books about your trip
Books that talk about a city or country’s history, geography and culture is a great way to boost learning and get them more excited about going. Reading is learning. Find books that contain fun facts, activities, quizzes and other interesting contents.
2. Stick to your homeschooling curriculum
Make a commitment to follow the lesson plan in your child’s homeschooling curriculum. This should help them create and stick to effective study habits.
3. Incorporate learning in all your trips
Whether it’s learning to convert dollars into Chinese yen, understanding why certain plants survive in extreme weather conditions, uncovering the history behind a popular site, or writing a reflection paper about their latest adventure – finding ways to incorporate education with your family travels is a sure-fire way to boost your child’s learning.
Have you ever considered homeschooling your children? Why or why not? What other tips have worked for you while traveling and homeschooling? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to post your comments below.
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Check out our Kids' Travel Guide series and maps for kids. Now, more than ever! Teach your kids about the world!
]]>As a kids’ travel guides’ publisher we were very curious to hear… And we were so happy to get a lot of cooperation. The answers inspire us and encourage us to continue creating more travel guides for you!
Here are some of the answers. What do you think about it? Do you feel the same? Any insight?
Anne Yedlin-Millett
I love traveling with my children because we get to experience new things together and make awesome memories!
Shannon Flannery
My parents took us on road trips every summer and those were some of my fondest memories. My Dad would have us read books about each place we were visiting and try to teach us about it.
Luli Gumis
I don´t have kids yet but I think is to create memories in them and teach them that there are different places, different people and cultures and we all share this same planet.
Astrid H Vlahakis
I think traveling with our kids is a great way to make lasting memories with family and or friends. Nothing better than that <3
Justine Durrant
The best thing traveling with kids is appreciating the small things they notice that we would otherwise miss
Gemille Sleweon
Great info for people with children. I don't have kids, but my favorite thing about traveling with my parents and siblings is singing along to music
Nidhi Fouzdar
Best thing about travelling with kids is you never feel bore and the whole trip turns out to be adventorous
Kalyon S Rao
Its the memories we carry for life and the experiences we cherish to remember. And they also get to see new places and experience the joy of travelling.....! thanks
Catherine Shane Cabuhat
the best bonding as family to be close to each other and make them realized how much happy as one family
Shelley Marushak Langelaar
I loved traveling with my parents when I was a kid -- lots of great memories that I hold near and dear
Renee Gladden Kemper
I love making memories with my kids. I love how much they enjoy the new experiences and how much they can learn from traveling to new places.
Laurie Bell McLean
The best thing about traveling with kids is seeing their reaction to new places. Their curiosity and enthusiasm make it all worthwhile.
Paige Marie
This is such a great giveaway! The best thing about traveling with kids is to get a chance to experience everything through their eyes!
Melissa Cushing
The memories made are for sure my favorite thing period! Love traveling, and I love traveling in the car as road trips are my favorite!
Colby Holiday
I think the best thing about traveling with kids is that it brings out your inner kid as well.
Elle Em
I love seeing my kid's eyes when they see a totally different landscape. They look mesmerized.
Kumamon Jeng
Traveling with kids will give them the best memory when they grow up, that money can’t buy.
Jackie Lee
The whole experience! I love seeing how excited the kiddo gets when he finds something new.
Twinkle Bhayana
the best part is that you get a chance to live a childhood once again. :)
Katrina Ellen
Travel with kids is such a great opportunity to show them the world
Mary John
Such a wonderful giveaway. Traveling with kids is always so exciting!
Navita Deshpande
Kids can actually inspire you to explore new as they are so curious and adaptable!
Ken Langworthy
Seeing your kids joy when they experience things for the first time.
Jarv Mark
All the ruckus, cries and mishaps. Cause those will stick forever.
Nina Kasper
I personally don’t have children but love reading everyone’s thoughts!
Heather Castillo
love watching them explore and have fun.
Dorothy Reinhold
I love to experience things through their eyes! So fun!
Courtney Blacher
The best thing about traveling with kids is watching how excited and happy they are.
Inbar Shahak
getting all the great photos together as memories
Danielle Lucia Schaffer
The memories we all make together
Daisy Teh
Witnessing how happy they are during the trips :)
Fatima D Torres
You get to explore more and answer all the wonderful questions about life.
Rebecca Kemp Pogir
I’m currently travelling in Europe with my kids we are having a blast despite the heat !
Becca Wilson
I absolutely love seeing their eyes light up as they see new things
Neha Anil Rajadhyaksha
There always a lot of entertainment!
Helene Cohen Bludman
The best thing about traveling with kids is the games we play, like I Spy.
Kaylee Shaw
We travel a great deal! People ask how we do it without electrics and on my own. I would agree with a lot of these tips
David Elliott
best thing about traveling with kids is seeing their reactions to the amazing things around them.
Indrani Ghose
Great giveaway. I always enjoy traveling with my kids.
Sophia John
wow this is best way to making moments great
Susan A Zupnyk
To watch the joy in their eyes experiencing something for the first time
Kacie Morgan
The best thing about travelling with kids is that it helps bring out your fun side :)
Armelle Dee
This moments are priceless. Sharing memories that we will all cherish forever
Anvita Bhatnagar
The best thing for me is that it’s a perfect time to bond and spend time together enjoying as a family.
Susan Quackenbush
For me it is watching their joy and excitement.
Vyjay Rao
The best thing about traveling with kids is that you yourself become a kid.
Alison Pennock Netzer
Creating family memories and bonding and watching them assimilate and adapt to new experiences.
Jen Murphy
So fun and have a great time together. Such a precious moment.
Brittany Clark-Charnley
I love watching my daughter explore!
Jessica May
I love all the interesting conversations!
Jessi Joachim
I think the best thing about traveling with kids is just their pure enthusiasm and love of adventure.
Kimberly Caines
The best thing... Having your kid there with you to spend quality time with. Yay for family time!
Jacqui Odell
Seeing things through their eyes.
Jen Smith
For me the best about traveling, is your having fun and a time of your life.
Melissa Cushing
I love this... road trips are my favorite!
Karlyn Cruz
are learning with their experiences and, they are making amazing memories
Melissa Bradbury
How much the kids enjoy new experiences.
Nico Ferre
To make a lot of memories and have a look at the things with another perspective ;)
Robert Wilkinson
Making memories with them. Life can be short. Travelling is an education.
Melodi Steinberg
Seeing the excitement through their eyes!
Vicky Perreault
Getting to spend quality time and exploring the world through their eyes.
Clair Mozingo Cook
This is an awesome giveaway! Great post about traveling with kids!
Moralda GD
I don't have kids but traveled with my nieces and nephews and it was a great experience.
Melanie Poulos Walsh
The best thing is instilling a love and appreciation for the world in them!
Andrea Broom
The wonderful memories you make and also that you give them, i still remember all of the trips we took as kids
Carol Niem Arjona
Travelling with your kids is the most awesome part and feelings for them because they always feel that you have a time for them
Kacie Morgan
What a great deal! Sounds like a lovely prize
Carlos Lara
Seeing their excitement!!
Krista Olson
How exciting and new everything is!
Afshan Mubin
Get a lot to eat every half an hour
Angelle Laborde
Making sweet new memories.
Chelsea Parker
What a wonderful giveaway!!
Inbar Shahak
coming back home... just kidding
Kayla Rose Dyer
Making memories.
Cassie Marie
Making amazing memories
Lindsey Burton-Harrison
Best thing, is exploring with them
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Traveling means having new experiences. When they grow a little older, they would definitely want to go back to those ‘good old days’ when they get to feel the sand dunes under their feet in Namibia or get an up-close encounter with the unique wildlife in Kenya. Same thing when they splurged in some of the best resorts and waterparks in the USA, tasted authentic dim sum and noodles in a restaurant in China or hiked at the Eiffel Tower in Paris. These are all beautiful memories they will cherish for many years to come. When they put all those in a piece of paper, your kids wouldn’t miss a thing as they rekindle their best childhood travel days.
In addition to reading books, making crafts, and playing toys, there’s another fun and more educational way to keep your kids from being bored while waiting for the flight, during the long line to enter a museum, or when you won’t be able to leave the hotel just yet. Here are some cool tips to make journaling fun and engaging for your children:
It’s not everyday that they feel okay. Even during travel, there are times when your kids aren’t just feeling good. They could be anxious about visiting a strange place,hey could be feeling sad because they’re missing their playmates or furry friends back home. Journaling allows your kids to express what they feel and be honest about their emotions. Journaling has been proven to help adults deal with their emotions and it’s definitely the same thing for kids.
Journaling is one great way to enhance your child’s written communication skills even when they’re not in school. Keeping a journal allows kids to record their observations and wonderings while on a trip. At the same time, they get to enhance their vocabulary, spelling, grammar and sentence structure through regular writing habit.
5. It makes them more creative too!
Journaling is a creative pursuit, especially if you incorporate sketching, doodling, making verses and poems, coloring, and a whole lot more. A child’s creativity is at its peak in their early years. Encouraging them to engage in such activities is the best way to nourish their creative side.
Lastly, journaling provides for richer memories than just selfies or the simple act of observing. When they journal, kids remember a scene longer because they take more time to catalog it into their long-term memory bank. Their journal becomes a personal souvenir. A tangible output they can show to you, to their friends, teachers and relatives, and even pass on to future generations!
And as mentioned earlier, journaling is good for you too. So why not do the same thing on your next family trip? It’s going to be fun, inspiring, and meaningful.
Happy trip!
If you’re headed to the East with your kids, don’t forget to include China in your travel bucket list! Below are some of the best things to do with your kids on your trip to China:
You can’t leave China without visiting its world-famous historical site. Even your kids most probably know about it! The Great Wall of China near Beijing is a must-visit attraction where families can hike together. It was built mainly during the three dynasties as a way to protect the people from “Barbarians”. If you have very young kids, take the gentler yet exhilarating sections of the Mutianyu down to the bottom. Don’t forget to take a family selfie!
Covering 3,000 square meters, the Shanghai Natural Wild Insect Kingdom is a popular science exhibition hall featuring many different insect species of live insects, mammals and reptiles. Not only will they learn about the beauty of ecology and how to protect and conserve the environment, your kids will also be amazed of the thousands of animals in the zoo, including 80 species of rare turtles, such as the tortoise, mud turtle, and box turtle. They can even catch fish and feed small animals for a more fun, interaction up close.
There’s no doubt – pandas are Chinese national treasure. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was built to imitate the natural habitat of Pandas to give them the best possible environment for rearing and breeding, and at the same time, raise public awareness about the protection of wild creatures and the environment. You will be amazed with the ten thousand clumps of bamboos and other plants cultivated at the Base as these gentle bears’ food.
After a series of trip to the nature, it’s time check out some of the finest architectures in the world. The World Financial Center is the highest building in Shanghai, with a total of 104 floors. Take your children to the viewing areas on 94th, 97th and 100th floor for an epic sightseeing experience. For your thrill-seeking teens, the Sky Walk 100 is going to be fun. FYI: it’s the world’s highest observation deck, spanning 55 meters.
Did you know that the largest ice and snow art exhibition in the world can be found in China? Yes, that’s right. If you love skiing, a trip to the Harbin Ice and Snow World should be on your itinerary. It also houses some of the world’s most beautiful ice art collections and masterpieces.
Needless to say, this world-famous theme park is one of the best treats for your kids! Let them embark on a magical journey through Disneyland’s fun themed parks that are filled with world-class attractions and fun activities. Here are the 6 themed lands you shouldn’t miss: Fantasyland, Treasure Cover, Tomorrowland, Gardens of Imagination, Disney Town, Mickey Avenue and Avenue Isle.
Can’t get enough of themed parks? Head to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom for a one-of-a-kind underwater exploration. It’s one of the world’s largest ocean-themed amusement parks, with a 68-metre-high Whale Shark Aquarium (largest in the world). They’ve used cutting-edge technology to create a viewing dome that gives guests an unparalleled exploration of the marine life.
Photo by Trifonneke / CC by 4.0
The Dino beach spans 85,000 square meters (which makes it one of the biggest open-air water parks in Asia). Try the “Storm Beach” – an artificial wave pool and the "Blue Sea" where you can emerge in lots of activities like water skiing, banana riding, jet skiing and of course, surfing.
Get your children to try Chinese entertainment and crafts of over 2,000 years old. It may be interesting for kids to try the shadow puppetry, which is something different from TV or the decorative Chinese handicrafts, featuring cool Chinese designs.
Lastly, after all those fun and tiring activities, it’s time for a sumptuous meal. Your kids will surely love the authentic taste of Chinese dumplings, chow mein, spring rolls, roasted duck, noodles, and so much more. Don’t miss their hot pots too!
Have you been to China, particularly in some of these world-famous destinations? What was your favorite attraction? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your comment below.
We just launched a brand new exciting kids guide - Kids’ Travel Guide - China! So if you are planning a visit to the exciting and exotic China or you would simply like to learn more about China from the comfort of your home you can now do so!
Hope over to our Amazon store to buy the brand new Kids’ Travel Guide - China for a really good reduced price - ONLY $7.9 /£5.9 - Offer available only for the first 10 days.
Take a look inside
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An absolute classic that can be played any time and any place and also helps children to be more aware of their surroundings, I-Spy can be played with just you and your child (if travelling with one kid only) or can include multiple people. It’s so versatile and requires absolutely no pre-planning or equipment at all!
Find here game instructions
This is great for park visits and when spending time in forests, on beaches, and pretty much anywhere that is outdoors. Give each child a matchbox or another similar small container. The aim is for kids to fill the box with as many different items as they can. For example a coin, a small pebble, a shell, a leaf … it will really make them hunt around for the smallest things they can find! You could either set a time limit on the activity or give them until you leave the place. Count each child’s number of items at the end of the game. Make sure you have wet wipes and antibacterial hand gel too!
You can play a basic game of bingo with little more than some paper and pens / pencils. Have kids choose their own set of numbers, say, any 6 numbers between 1 and 30. You can then read numbers at random and they mark them off. The first child to mark off all their numbers wins the round. You can repeat several times, maybe alternating the caller. It helps if the caller writes all the numbers down and crosses them off themselves as shouted to prevent confusion!
If you are going to be spending a fair amount of time in a car / bus / train you can plan ahead a little and print some sheets for “car bingo”. Combine pictures and words (depending on the age of your children) and kids must mark off the things when they see them. The first one to complete their sheet wins for the day. If you laminate your pages and use wipeable pens you can reuse these every time you take transport.
Kids can get quite restless when travelling – they have so much excess energy that needs to be burnt off! Make sure that, when self-driving, you plan plenty of stops. When travelling by bus you are a lot more restricted, so make sure that you make full use of the rest stops. Pack a small soft ball, frisbee, skipping rope, or any other sports equipment that can be easily used and doesn’t take up a lot of space. On rest stops your kids can have a quick game of catch, kick the ball around, play with the frisbee, or even take turns holding the rope for a little skipping competition! There are many possibilities; the aim is to get kids moving a bit and to let them have fun. These pieces of equipment can also be fab when on the beach or in a park.
Board games can help children have fun whilst playing together for quite some time! Having a couple of small travel board games can be great at any time. The magnetic ones mean that pieces don’t easily get lost.
Another simple but effective way of keeping kids occupied when on the go is to have a few games of hangman. This is also perfect for helping kids with their literacy. All you need is paper and a pen / pencil.
Check out the Kids’ Travel Guide full catalog here – Packed full of interesting information, top tips, fascinating facts, lovely pictures, diary entries, and numerous tasks, quizzes, games, puzzles, and other activities, your kids can spend time getting to know more about the place they are visiting and completing any daily activities from that day or the previous day.
There are so many ways to keep kids happy on the go – sometimes, you just need a little imagination and a few basic items and you’re all good to go!
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Stretching for over three kilometres, this glorious beach is sure to make everyone smile. The soft white sands invite the adults to sunbathe and relax, whilst kids will love hunting for shells, creating imaginative sand sculptures, and simply feeling the sand trickle through their toes. The rock pools are usually fascinating for kids as they try and spot an array of small sea creatures. It is a well-maintained and clean beach and the water is clear, cool, calm, and refreshing. Kids can splash and paddle as well as bobbing on the mild waves with a range of inflatable toys. There are good facilities and amenities close to the shore, and all the other delights of San Diego are just a short distance away.
If you don’t want the crowds and expense of Puerto Vallarta but have your heart set on a Mexican beach vacation, Sayulita beach is a terrific option. One of the most family-friendly beaches in the whole country, your family can all enjoy the deliciously warm water and powdery sands in a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Take a boat trip to spot whales or explore the lush green background scenery and see numerous beautiful birds and butterflies. Hiking, cycling, and horse-riding give lots of ways to keep active kids entertained, and they can even try their hand at surfing or body boarding! Hunt for “treasures” in the sand and see the amazing underwater world with a spot of snorkelling. There are plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop nearby, and your family could go on one of the interesting cultural excursions to nearby areas for a true taste of Mexico. And, if all that isn’t enough, there is a fantastic kids’ club right n the beach where your little ones can do various activities and have fun whilst making new friends!
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and its tropical shores attract more than just a few holiday-makers. A popular place for beach-lovers and sun-worshippers in Southeast Asia, Phuket offers an abundance of activities and attractions for all. Whilst the island has many fine beaches, Kata is one of the best for families. It is not as in-your-face as party-loving Patong, yet has enough going on to make everyone relaxed and happy. White sands with overhanging palm trees, clear waters, and lots of water sports and beach-based activities are just a few of the reasons for Kata Beach’s popularity. There are many accommodation options close to the beach as well as plenty of restaurants and shops. Cuisine is very varied, so whether your children are adventurous eaters and want to taste local fare, or whether they want a little taste of home, you really will find food for everyone. The Kids’ Travel Guide – Thailand is the perfect way for younger visitors to absorb some of the culture and history of the country whilst relaxing on the beaches.
There are lots of stunning beaches and islands throughout the Caribbean, many of which are good options for people vacationing with kids. Paradise Island in the Bahamas is especially stunning though! Easy to reach from the country’s capital of Nassau, you can get there by bridge or take the short ferry – something a bit different for the kids to enjoy! All beaches are public, meaning that you can roam freely around the edges of the island, enjoying the white sands and crystal clear waters. The visibility makes for great snorkelling. There are water sports aplenty and your kids may like exploring the undulating sand dunes. Whilst they do come with a pretty steep price tag, there are lots of activities at the Atlantis Resort, perfect for if you really want to splash out and spoil everyone. Delights include an aquarium, water parks, a lagoon, rock climbing, games, and heaps more as well.
Piercing blue waters, a sandy beach, and attractive mountain / island views make Marmaris a picture-perfect destination. It is quite built up, but this means there are lots of places to choose between when seeking accommodation, restaurants, and fun activities away from the beach. The waters are calm and safe and the golden sand is great for sunbathing and playing. Take your kids to the mud baths for an experience they won’t quickly forget! There are fun water parks close by and you can all enjoy dolphin spotting trips, jeep safaris, and numerous exciting excursions.
Ejoy the awesome beaches for kids and don’t forget the sunscreen and sunhats!
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San Francisco, affectionately nicknamed the City by the Bay, in Northern California boosts numerous museums, outdoor parks, and diverse cultures that will entertain children of all ages.
San Francisco is home to the most photographed span bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge. It ranks in the top 10 of longest span bridges in the world.
Museums for kids ranging from oceanic aquariums, the California Academy of Science, a zoo, and other hands-on children museums to historic national parks, many places of those are free.
Dozens of parks offer scenic vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and the mountains.
Besides the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco other signature feature is a large network of street cars.
Diverse culture communities to experience the food, languages and the arts of world.
Things You Need to Know When Getting Ready to Travel to San Francisco:
Transportation: San Francisco International Airport is located 13 miles south of city. Use the numerous airport shuttles available to reach the city. Walking is a popular option. The water front areas, Fisherman’s Wharf, and many parks are flat. Use the cable car and bus system to cover the hills. Be sure to get unlimited ride passports good for 1-7 days.
Accommodations: The Bay City is known for high end hotels and chic boutique accommodations that would not be as kid friendly. Use common on-line hotel searches for the area to select one of the hundreds of rooms that will be just right for your family.
Weather: The city’s climate is known to be consistently moderate temperatures ranging from low 70’s to upper 40’s. The fact that the city is surrounded by water on 3 sides and has varied hilly topography accounts for why the weather can be different in separate areas of the city at the same time.
The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is apt to be warmer and drier.
Dress in layers for the ocean breezes and notorious famous fog banks that roll off the cooler Pacific Ocean waters.
Golden Gate Park is over 130 years old. Influential businessmen knew the importance of keeping a natural area for a sprawling urban city. Today the park is over 1000 acres maintained to substantiate native plants, wildlife, and aquatic life. Exciting sites to visit include a plant conservatory with a natural butterfly habitat, a combination of natural and man-made lakes, picnic areas, and a dozen playgrounds for the kids to enjoy until their heart’s content. Look for how many times you can see the Golden Gate Bridge. Take an extra trolley ride to the bridge to get the real feel of how large and impressive it really is when you walk out onto the bridge even if it is only for a little ways and look up at the suspension spans above your heads. The park connects to over 30 miles of hiking trails. Stow Lake one of the man-made dammed berms includes paddle boats for rent to enjoy the waterfalls and view aquatic life.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Unpleasant as it is it is important to understand that some homeless camps do exist in the park. Park and city officials work together to keep the area safe for visitors.
On the upside, you can take the opportunity to have age appropriate discussions about the plight of those less fortunate.
When considering the natural trails for entertainment it is important to note that many are high rugged vistas that may not be suitable for very young children.
Visit the Koret’s Children’s corner of the Golden Gate Playground to ride a restored wood-carved carousel. For a small fee adults and children can ride the elaborately Spanish-influenced painted horses. Children must be 41” tall to ride alone.
If traveling with your pets, remember no pets are allowed on the natural trails but feel free to let your children with their dogs romp in the dog park within the park.
Do not approach or feed the wild life.
The Zoo offers over 250 species and exhibits. A newly renovated exciting interactive Children’s’ Playground named Elinor Friend Playground is now open. Be sure to visit the petting zoo and ride the miniature railroad.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Check out their website for animal feeding times for your kids to get the whole zoo experience.
Take your visit and step further and look for the enrichment tools that are in each of the animal’s habitats. Since the animals have everything provided for them, the zoo keepers care for the animals so much they provide extra sensory items each day. There are boomer balls that provide treats when they are tossed about. Watch for chimp Tallulah flipping through a magazine for sensory enrichment. They work hard to keep the animals from getting bored and to keep them interested in their environment. They come up with new ideas for every day or week on detailed schedules.
Elinor Friend Playground consists of 3 bio-regions for age appropriate play and exploration in a fully ADA compliant atmosphere.
The textures and materials in each area such as the River Play area for children 6 months to two years provide them with things that mimic the wild. The polar zone is for exploring toddlers 2 to 5 years old.
Banyan Tree climbing structure is for the 5 to 12 year old children.
A must see for your younger children is the Meer Kat and Prairie Dog Exhibit. The low glass wall permits even the smallest of guests the opportunity to get up close and personal. Older children will see how two species from opposite sides of the earth are brought together in a natural habitat for both. See how they have managed to get along with each other. Humans can learn a lot from the animal world.
The smaller child will enjoy searching for Meer Kat treats in a “sandbox”. They will be able to view and climb through tunnels like the prairie dogs do.
During the summer in the children’s zoon on the Nature Trail, youth volunteers are positioned throughout the trail with interactive talks and opportunities for your children to touch small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult the entire time on zoo grounds.
Strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs available for rent on a first come basis.
The Cable Cars are a national landmark still in existence as viable transit in San Francisco. Enjoy the thrills of the San Francisco hills holding while riding the cars instead of walking. Take a ride to China Town for souvenirs and fun street sites. Hop back on to find the original Swenson’s Ice Crème Shop.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Ride the cars and get off at Lombard to avoid a steep walk when visiting the “crookedest” street.
Cable car lines can be long. Have something on hand to entertain the small ones.
Strollers can be hard to manage on the cars. Consider a small trip without the strollers.
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a trip to this iconic attraction. The kid will love Musee Mecahnique that has a collection of old-fashioned mechanical arcade games. It will give today’s kids a look at things before digital games. A child interested in maritime history will be at home at the wharf seeing all the various boats docked nearby. The street performers will delight all ages.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Be wary that the wharf is a pier with no railings in places. Keep a keen eye on your children.
The wharf is always busy.
The weather conditions can be very sunny, use sunscreen. Also, plan for the famous fog to roll in at any time.
Ripley’s Believe it or not museum is here for the touristy fare.
Kids are most certainly attracted to the sea world. If in San Francisco, take them to the Aquarium of the Bay, a 50,000 square foot building, exhibiting almost 20,000 marine specimens, all originating in the L.A. Bay and nearby areas. The declared purpose of the Aquarium is to sustain conservation of local species, through intensive learning and experiences programs.
Children of all ages can “meet” with local shark species, the Giant Pacific octopus, jelly-fish, anchovies, sea stars, etc. 3D movies and special interactive programs will help the kids get a deeper perspective on the enormous diversity of sea life around L.A.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Tickets are available online and include some discounts; also, it is easier to check the various options from the comfort of your home, instead of staying in line with some anxious children;
A daily timetable is available with the schedule for the entire year;
A new exhibitions is now available – Otters: Watershed Ambassadors, an amazing foray into their world and life.
http://aquariumofthebay.org/
If your kid is a little pathfinder, then the San Francisco Exploratorium is the right spot. You might call it a museum, a laboratory, an exhibition hall; and you would be right in any case and all together.
Exploratorium provokes children of all ages to see themselves and the surrounding world in a deeper way, challenges their curiosity, abilities, imagination. 600 exhibits and experiments, covering all science areas, invite children (and their parents equally) to explore space, the human body and mind, culture and many others, in new, unthinkable ways. For example, you probably haven’t analyzed yourself with 3D glasses, not have you tried (and succeeded) in making a rainbow or catching a shadow, have you?
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Experience the Tactile Dom, an itinerary built in full darkness, challenging you to visit just by using your sense of touch;
If you get hungry wondering around the nature’s miracles, the family-friendly restaurant there is a good option;
All places are accessible for strollers and you have plenty restrooms and kids’ facilities, but the experience might not amaze a baby or infant.
Opened 365 days a year, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is one of the greatest such places throughout the United States, exhibiting 8,000 plant species all around the world. Children will have a nice opportunity to explore one of the most complex botanical gardens and get in contact with rare plants, some of them remaining unique in the world (although not in their natural climate!).
You will enjoy an extended collection of Magnolias, rare high elevation palms, the Ancient Plants area, the Southeast Asian and Andean Cloud Forests or the “Garden of Fragrance”.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Mainly during summer months, different outdoor, interactive classes and workshops are organized for children 3-14, so you can visit the website for details;
The place has easy accesible paths, so you can visit even if you are with a stroller. Maybe you will be lucky to catch the baby’s afternoon nap to enjoy the floral exhibitions;
Don’t forget the camera, you will capture some of the most colorful and live pictures in the entire city;
For plants protection reasons, there are some strict regulations that you should worn your children about.
http://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/
Walt Disney’s characters have been a constant presence in our childhood, as well as in our children’s. We all love them and dream at them! So why not take advantage of this trip to San Francisco for a stop at the Museum dedicated to this great cartoons creator? Located in two historical buildings, of around 40,000 square feet, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Museum offers visitors a foray into the life and work of Walt Disney.
The exhibits, both permanent as well as occasional ones, magnificently blend classical displays with most modern tools, for an unforgettable experience.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Strollers access is allowed into the galleries;
You can check the website for the updated schedule for the period you will be visiting;
The museum includes a café, where you can have a snack for the kids.
http://www.waltdisney.org/
San Francisco, affectionately nicknamed the City by the Bay, in Northern California boosts numerous museums, outdoor parks, and diverse cultures that will entertain children of all ages.
5 Reasons Why to Take the Kids With You to San Francisco:
San Francisco is home to the most photographed span bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge. It ranks in the top 10 of longest span bridges in the world.
Museums for kids ranging from oceanic aquariums, the California Academy of Science, a zoo, and other hands-on children museums to historic national parks, many places of those are free.
Dozens of parks offer scenic vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and the mountains.
Besides the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco other signature feature is a large network of street cars.
Diverse culture communities to experience the food, languages and the arts of world.
Things You Need to Know When Getting Ready to Travel to San Francisco:
Transportation: San Francisco International Airport is located 13 miles south of city. Use the numerous airport shuttles available to reach the city. Walking is a popular option. The water front areas, Fisherman’s Wharf, and many parks are flat. Use the cable car and bus system to cover the hills. Be sure to get unlimited ride passports good for 1-7 days.
Accommodations: The Bay City is known for high end hotels and chic boutique accommodations that would not be as kid friendly. Use common on-line hotel searches for the area to select one of the hundreds of rooms that will be just right for your family.
Weather: The city’s climate is known to be consistently moderate temperatures ranging from low 70’s to upper 40’s. The fact that the city is surrounded by water on 3 sides and has varied hilly topography accounts for why the weather can be different in separate areas of the city at the same time.
The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is apt to be warmer and drier.
Dress in layers for the ocean breezes and notorious famous fog banks that roll off the cooler Pacific Ocean waters.
Our 8 Top Recommendations:
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is over 130 years old. Influential businessmen knew the importance of keeping a natural area for a sprawling urban city. Today the park is over 1000 acres maintained to substantiate native plants, wildlife, and aquatic life. Exciting sites to visit include a plant conservatory with a natural butterfly habitat, a combination of natural and man-made lakes, picnic areas, and a dozen playgrounds for the kids to enjoy until their heart’s content. Look for how many times you can see the Golden Gate Bridge. Take an extra trolley ride to the bridge to get the real feel of how large and impressive it really is when you walk out onto the bridge even if it is only for a little ways and look up at the suspension spans above your heads. The park connects to over 30 miles of hiking trails. Stow Lake one of the man-made dammed berms includes paddle boats for rent to enjoy the waterfalls and view aquatic life.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Unpleasant as it is it is important to understand that some homeless camps do exist in the park. Park and city officials work together to keep the area safe for visitors.
On the upside, you can take the opportunity to have age appropriate discussions about the plight of those less fortunate.
When considering the natural trails for entertainment it is important to note that many are high rugged vistas that may not be suitable for very young children.
Visit the Koret’s Children’s corner of the Golden Gate Playground to ride a restored wood-carved carousel. For a small fee adults and children can ride the elaborately Spanish-influenced painted horses. Children must be 41” tall to ride alone.
If traveling with your pets, remember no pets are allowed on the natural trails but feel free to let your children with their dogs romp in the dog park within the park.
Do not approach or feed the wild life.
San Francisco Zoo
The Zoo offers over 250 species and exhibits. A newly renovated exciting interactive Children’s’ Playground named Elinor Friend Playground is now open. Be sure to visit the petting zoo and ride the miniature railroad.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Check out their website for animal feeding times for your kids to get the whole zoo experience.
Take your visit and step further and look for the enrichment tools that are in each of the animal’s habitats. Since the animals have everything provided for them, the zoo keepers care for the animals so much they provide extra sensory items each day. There are boomer balls that provide treats when they are tossed about. Watch for chimp Tallulah flipping through a magazine for sensory enrichment. They work hard to keep the animals from getting bored and to keep them interested in their environment. They come up with new ideas for every day or week on detailed schedules.
Elinor Friend Playground consists of 3 bio-regions for age appropriate play and exploration in a fully ADA compliant atmosphere.
The textures and materials in each area such as the River Play area for children 6 months to two years provide them with things that mimic the wild. The polar zone is for exploring toddlers 2 to 5 years old.
Banyan Tree climbing structure is for the 5 to 12 year old children.
A must see for your younger children is the Meer Kat and Prairie Dog Exhibit. The low glass wall permits even the smallest of guests the opportunity to get up close and personal. Older children will see how two species from opposite sides of the earth are brought together in a natural habitat for both. See how they have managed to get along with each other. Humans can learn a lot from the animal world.
The smaller child will enjoy searching for Meer Kat treats in a “sandbox”. They will be able to view and climb through tunnels like the prairie dogs do.
During the summer in the children’s zoon on the Nature Trail, youth volunteers are positioned throughout the trail with interactive talks and opportunities for your children to touch small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult the entire time on zoo grounds.
Strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs available for rent on a first come basis.
Cable Car Rides
The Cable Cars are a national landmark still in existence as viable transit in San Francisco. Enjoy the thrills of the San Francisco hills holding while riding the cars instead of walking. Take a ride to China Town for souvenirs and fun street sites. Hop back on to find the original Swenson’s Ice Crème Shop.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Ride the cars and get off at Lombard to avoid a steep walk when visiting the “crookedest” street.
Cable car lines can be long. Have something on hand to entertain the small ones.
Strollers can be hard to manage on the cars. Consider a small trip without the strollers.
Fisherman’s Wharf
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a trip to this iconic attraction. The kid will love Musee Mecahnique that has a collection of old-fashioned mechanical arcade games. It will give today’s kids a look at things before digital games. A child interested in maritime history will be at home at the wharf seeing all the various boats docked nearby. The street performers will delight all ages.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Be wary that the wharf is a pier with no railings in places. Keep a keen eye on your children.
The wharf is always busy.
The weather conditions can be very sunny, use sunscreen. Also, plan for the famous fog to roll in at any time.
Ripley’s Believe it or not museum is here for the touristy fare.
San Francisco Bay’s Aquarium
Kids are most certainly attracted to the sea world. If in San Francisco, take them to the Aquarium of the Bay, a 50,000 square foot building, exhibiting almost 20,000 marine specimens, all originating in the L.A. Bay and nearby areas. The declared purpose of the Aquarium is to sustain conservation of local species, through intensive learning and experiences programs.
Children of all ages can “meet” with local shark species, the Giant Pacific octopus, jelly-fish, anchovies, sea stars, etc. 3D movies and special interactive programs will help the kids get a deeper perspective on the enormous diversity of sea life around L.A.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Tickets are available online and include some discounts; also, it is easier to check the various options from the comfort of your home, instead of staying in line with some anxious children;
A daily timetable is available with the schedule for the entire year;
A new exhibitions is now available – Otters: Watershed Ambassadors, an amazing foray into their world and life.
http://aquariumofthebay.org/
Exploratorium
If your kid is a little pathfinder, then the San Francisco Exploratorium is the right spot. You might call it a museum, a laboratory, an exhibition hall; and you would be right in any case and all together.
Exploratorium provokes children of all ages to see themselves and the surrounding world in a deeper way, challenges their curiosity, abilities, imagination. 600 exhibits and experiments, covering all science areas, invite children (and their parents equally) to explore space, the human body and mind, culture and many others, in new, unthinkable ways. For example, you probably haven’t analyzed yourself with 3D glasses, not have you tried (and succeeded) in making a rainbow or catching a shadow, have you?
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Experience the Tactile Dom, an itinerary built in full darkness, challenging you to visit just by using your sense of touch;
If you get hungry wondering around the nature’s miracles, the family-friendly restaurant there is a good option;
All places are accessible for strollers and you have plenty restrooms and kids’ facilities, but the experience might not amaze a baby or infant.
San Francisco Botanical Garden
Opened 365 days a year, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is one of the greatest such places throughout the United States, exhibiting 8,000 plant species all around the world. Children will have a nice opportunity to explore one of the most complex botanical gardens and get in contact with rare plants, some of them remaining unique in the world (although not in their natural climate!).
You will enjoy an extended collection of Magnolias, rare high elevation palms, the Ancient Plants area, the Southeast Asian and Andean Cloud Forests or the “Garden of Fragrance”.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Mainly during summer months, different outdoor, interactive classes and workshops are organized for children 3-14, so you can visit the website for details;
The place has easy accesible paths, so you can visit even if you are with a stroller. Maybe you will be lucky to catch the baby’s afternoon nap to enjoy the floral exhibitions;
Don’t forget the camera, you will capture some of the most colorful and live pictures in the entire city;
For plants protection reasons, there are some strict regulations that you should worn your children about.
http://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/
Walt Disney Family Museum
Walt Disney’s characters have been a constant presence in our childhood, as well as in our children’s. We all love them and dream at them! So why not take advantage of this trip to San Francisco for a stop at the Museum dedicated to this great cartoons creator? Located in two historical buildings, of around 40,000 square feet, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Museum offers visitors a foray into the life and work of Walt Disney.
The exhibits, both permanent as well as occasional ones, magnificently blend classical displays with most modern tools, for an unforgettable experience.
Important to Know When You Are Taking the Kids:
Strollers access is allowed into the galleries;
You can check the website for the updated schedule for the period you will be visiting;
The museum includes a café, where you can have a snack for the kids.
http://www.waltdisney.org/
*********************
This week you have the opportunity to get the Kids' Travel Guide - New York and the Kids' Activity Book - USA for only $11,90.
]]>Make no mistake about it; Paris could easily be called the City of Gardens, as well. Those lush green belts, ornamented by sparkly water fountains and chiseled pathways for little feet to dash along are as quintessentially Parisian as a honeymooner’s rendezvous.
For the sheer number of gardens and open spaces the city has to offer, Paris must be on the top of all the European family vacation itineraries. While the average tourist will not admit it, everybody needs a break from all the treasure hunting and museum treks. Children become the perfect excuse for adults to hug lush green, perfectly manicured lawns. Here are a few gems on offer:
While in Paris, check out the Parisian children sailing small wooden boats in the central basin, using long sticks to move them along…the image is right out of a Doisneau photograph! Stroll the immense grounds and you can see the older folks engaged in a game of pétanque (which is French for “lawn bowls”), or you can visit the beehives in the southwest end of the gardens. In the fall, the beekeeper bottles up all the honey and sells it to the public, and if you visit at the right time, you could bring this back as a very original souvenir. The little ones can also find good respite from everyday gadget addictions by seeing the puppet shows that regularly take place in the Jardin de Luxembourg and the Parc de Buttes Chaumont.
This is a great place to take a load off after you’ve trekked through the Louvre. Situated between the museum and the Place de la Concorde, it is home to manicured gardens, modern sculptures, a children’s play area, reflecting pools, and many outdoor cafes. Grab a bench and have a peek at Parisian life, which is unfolding all around you! You can watch as your children assimilate into it!
After you’ve gone up the Eiffel Tower, take some time to explore the garden at its base. The Champs de Mars runs from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire in the 7th arrondissement. As you walk from the Eiffel Tower eastward, stop for coffee and a snack in an outdoor café and watch the well-behaved children of the 7th arrondissement play on the swings or race around in pedal-cars. Encourage your children to join in the fun! If you are lucky, you can catch a concert or a dance performance in the central gazebo, too.
This one will hold a special place in your little ones’ hearts. You will have the option of ignoring the long and tiring queues to get atop the Eiffel Tower, in favour of the hot air balloon at your service, at the Parc de Andre Citroën. We are very sure the aerial views of Paris will be the same, if not better, from a hot air balloon than if you were gracing the balconies of the iconic iron structure. Not to mention, the kids will get good kicks out of floating in open air. This is something that they can rave about back at school!
It’s hard on the pocket, but it isn’t a matter of choice. You can’t bring your family to Paris and not visit Walt’s European mansion. It’s Euro Disney, folks! To be fair, this should have been reason number 1, but it’s good to think about things to do for free, before you really start digging deep into your pockets. Euro Disney is situated right on the outskirts of Paris (Train Station: Marne la Vallée), so theoretically speaking, you can stay in the city center and make a couple of day trips to Disney’s theme parks. But we recommend the opposite. Millions of Euro Disney visitors every year are treated very well by themed hotels and resorts sitting atop acres of grassland around the park. What this essentially means is that you cut down traveling time to and from the park compared to the time it would take if you were staying in central Paris, and the kids can enjoy their Disney themed rooms and games at the hotel after sunset as well. All these hotels have in-house restaurants, so food for rumbling tummies is always just a few steps away. There are also toy and souvenir shops on the premises, in case you didn’t manage to take time out while at the parks.
Note: Details on tickets, timings, and logistics can be found in our itinerary.Kids will love the many indoor attractions in Paris. Adults get their fair share by visiting museums and cathedrals, which, it would seem, are lined on every nook and corner of the city. But Paris caters equally as well to curious and impressionable little minds. We are pressed for the right options, because there are so many, but here are a few of our picks.
The post Top 10 Activities to Do with Kids this Spring appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>If you’re running out of ideas for spring family activities to try this year, the following list is a great way to start:
Topping the list of our top spring activities is going to the beach. Your kids love the beach as much as you do and just like most families out there, you’ve waited for a long time this year for a weather like this. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your swimming clothes and head off to the nearest beach. Just don’t forget to bring sunscreen!
They probably can spend the whole day on their gadgets but if you give them the opportunity to explore the outdoors, they would trade their tablets to a bicycle. Just make sure your kids are wearing the right gears and helmet for safety.
Head to the nearest campsite in your area. Children love backpacking, eating smores and hotdogs, sleeping inside a tent, and waking up to nature’s beauty.
Well, this should go with camping. Before you settle down in the campsite, take an easy trail that your kids can hike. After so many months spent in school and at home, it’s time to take them for a walk in the nature. Educate them about the wildlife and how to protect it.
Nothing beats spring picnic. Make sure to involve your kids in the preparation – making sandwiches and packing stuff. Prepare a list of activities or games to make your family picnic even more fun and memorable.
You need not go far to make the best out of the spring season. In your backyard, fill up lots of balloons with water for an epic balloon fight. Be ready for a ton of giggles, fun and laughter.
Love Easter egg hunt? You can do a similar activity, this time involving all sorts of treats and gifts for the lucky kiddos. Make a list of spring objects (rocks, pine cones, flowers, etc.) for your children to find. The best hunter gets a reward.
This spring season, reinforce the value of giving and kindness to your children. Register to a community service program in your area. Whether it’s a cleanup drive, a charity bake sale, or some wildlife conservation project, your kids will surely find joy and happiness from helping other people.
Spring is the best time to begin your backyard project. If you’ve been planning to install a vegetable garden, a nursery, or a play yard, now is the perfect time for you and your kids to roll up their sleeves and get dirty. At the end of each day, treat your hardworking staff with some delicious snacks. Ice cream and desserts perhaps?
Every kid has got to have their kite-flying memory. Choose an open field and try to get your kids’ kite fly up to the air. It’s such a special moment.
What spring activities do you like the most?
The post Top 10 Activities to Do with Kids this Spring appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>The post 5 Best Spring Breaks to Travel with Kids in Europe appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>If you’re heading to Europe this year, try not to miss the following family-friendly destinations:
Your European tour is incomplete without stopping by at its most popular city – London. With plenty of parks and playgrounds in every neighbourhood, the city hosts so many fun activities for children. You will find lots of museums too which will surely satisfy the curious minds of teens. While London is known for its high price tags, there are budget-friendly chain hotels near many beautiful spots.
Known for its scenic views and family-friendly hubs, Amsterdam makes an ideal destination for families. Your kids will surely have fun touring the city via boat or bicycle. Take them to Van Gogh museum for a one-of-a-kind ‘artistic’ experience (just be sure to book tickets ahead to avoid the long queue), and to Anne Frank House where they can peek through the horrors of war. And if you have extra time, pay a visit to Efteling – a popular theme park in Holland and best for under-8s. After a long day of exploring this beautiful city, treat your kids with mouthwatering Dutch food. Don’t worry if you have a picky eater, restaurants and coffee shops in Amsterdam always serve pancakes and chips.
Known for its fantastic cuisine, rich history, and breathtaking beauty, Rome will certainly make your spring break in Europe one of the best. It’s a crowd-pleasing destination for all ages, and certainly a must-visit for Roman Catholics. Begin your kids’ educational and fun-filled journey by taking them to the Colosseum and the Pantheon where they uncover the ancient history of the city, along with the kid-friendly museums and piazzas in the neighbourhood. Don’t forget to have a taste of gelatos, Italian pastries and Roman pizzas. They are to die for.
If you think Munich is solely for the beer-loving adults, think again. You should take your children to the Bavarian capital not for beer of course, but for the world’s famous handcrafted toys.
Munich is also the home to the world’s largest museum of science and technology – the Deutsches Museum. There are hundreds of things to see and experience in this museum. Got a Disney fan in your pack? Don’t forget to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle which was the inspiration to Sleeping Beauty’s pad.
This place might be known for its rowdy nightlife, but there are also many reasons why Barcelona is a great family destination. Take for example the impressive Gaudí’s artwork in Güell Park and the colorful street performances at Las Ramblas. Not to mention the unbeatable food, months of endless sunshine, and the fine stretch of beach where you can have an unforgettable family time.
Europe is a home to many family-friendly cities. This spring break, pack your clothes and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure!
Enjoy our spring sale with 30% off on the entire FlyingKids catalog. Use code: SPINGSALE at checkout.
The post 5 Best Spring Breaks to Travel with Kids in Europe appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>The post 5 Best Spring Breaks to Travel with Kids in US appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>You need not travel to Japan right now just to experience the fun and colourful Cherry Blossoms Festival. The last few days of March to the first two weeks of April mark the peak bloom of cherry blossoms around Washington DC. The cherry trees on the Tidal Basin are the main attraction during the festival. You and your kids will surely be mesmerised by the breathtaking views. Don’t forget to bring your camera and let the kids enhance their photography skills.
An ideal spring break vacation destination for families with children, there’s plenty of things to do at this awesome place apart from swimming and sunbathing. Get involved in family-friendly games and rides, have some barbecues, steaks and pizza at the restaurants in Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, and get your kids acquainted with the penguins, seals, and sharks at the Jenkinson’s Aquarium. You will never run out of fun family activities at Point Pleasant!
Whatever kind of adventure you’re after – whether maritime, cultural or culinary – you can find it all at Cape Ann. Give your kids a fun and education spring break through whale watching (where they learn about the different types of whales, their ecosystem and how to protect them) or take them out for a walk through history at the Gloucester Harbor where they learn about Gloucester’s history and contemporary culture. Lastly, have an awesome gastronomic exploration at some of the finest restaurants in Cape Ann. They include Woodman’s, an award-winning seafood restaurant, and the Duckworth’s Bistrot which is known for their fresh, locally sourced, seasonal fare.
Sonoma County is gorgeous year-round, but it’s more special during the spring season where people can freely explore the green-golden outdoors. There are numerous parks where families can hike, bike, learn about the wildlife and its preservation, enjoy horseback riding, and more. Beach tours and water treks are available too! But the most anticipated family activity of all is the hot air balloon over Sonoma Wine Country. Take a birds-eye view over the rolling hills, mountains, farms, and gardens.
For the best of nature experience, take your kids to the tallest waterfall in Oregon. While you can view the beautiful Multnomah Falls from the highway, to check out the amazing view of the two-tiered falls in full length, you have to head to the carved-out opening in the rock face. For an even closer view, walk a several hundred feet up to the Benson Bridge. There’s a visitor centre and restaurant where your whole family can rest and dine after a fun yet exhausting walk.
Have you visited any of these top spring destinations already? What was the experience like? What other fun activities for the family at these places do you recommend? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to drop a comment below.
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]]>The post 10 Fun Things to Do with Your Kids when Visiting Sydney appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>Here are 10 fun things to do with your kids when visiting Sydney:
Explore Circular Quay
If this is your first time in Sydney, the best place to explore first is the Circular Quay. Why? Well, it’s where you will find two of the most popular destinations in the country – Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Play at Luna Park
This popular amusement park is a must-see. From riding a giant Ferris Wheel to taking slides in Coney Island, bumping each other’s dodgem cars and riding the wild mouse – one day is not enough for your kids to explore and enjoy this park.
Enjoy the views at Cockatoo Island.
Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Cockatoo Island is a great place to learn about Sydney’s local history. Explore Sydney’s largest island for the day or even overnight in the campground or holiday houses.
Hang out on the beach.
Who doesn’t love going to the beach… especially in Sydney? From the Northern Beaches to the Eastern Suburb, your kids will definitely love the waves in Sydney. If you have more time, the world-famous Bondi Beach is a must-visit!
Learn and play at the Powerhouse Museum.
This is not a typical museum. Here, your kids will definitely be amazed by the interactive activities that makes learning so much fun! They host regular exhibits featuring amazing stuff, such as over a million Lego bricks used to create giant superheroes and supervillans.
Have a breathtaking view of the city at the Sydney Tower.
Want to have the best view of Sydney? Go up to the top of the city’s tallest free-standing structure which is ranked as one of the safest buildings in the world. This iconic Sydney landmark surely showcases the best of Sydney’s engineering and quality construction.
Enjoy a family picnic at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Perhaps one of the most beautiful gardens in the world – the Royal Botanic garden is a great place for families to relax and bond. They regularly hold activities to promote the conservation of the natural world. Surely, your kids will have a better understanding of what it means to take care of the environment after their trip to the Royal garden.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Another iconic destination in Sydney – the Harbour Bridge is a home to many local attractions, restaurants and cafes, hotels, and shopping centers. Climb up to the bridge and let your kids enjoy the magnificent 360-degree views from the top of the arch. You will absolutely love it too!
Run, play and laugh at Darling Harbour.
This place hosts a lot of fun activities (free and paid) for the whole family. With plenty of restaurants that serve scrumptious Australian food, you and your kids will surely have a blast! Among the best places to explore at the Darling Harbour are the Wildlife Park, IMAX theatre, and the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.
Shop at the Rocks market.
Last but not the least – head to The Rocks for a bunch of enjoyable activities, from shopping to strolling around the busy market. You will also find the Observatory Hill at The Rocks wherein your kids could star-gaze through high-powered telescopes.
Now that you know 10 of the best things to do in Sydney with kids, it’s time for you to pack and enjoy the tour!
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]]>The post Why You Should Choose A Family Travel Immersion Experience appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>Particularly if you have children of different ages, it can be hard to find the perfect choice for everyone in the family. You want lots of fun and adventures to tire the younger ones out but also want time to relax as adults. If this sounds like you, a family travel immersion experience might just be right up your street.
So what is a family travel immersion experience? Well it’s a vacation as a whole family where you stay with another family in their home, typically in a new country, and experience it in a truly authentic way. You can choose between one way paid stays or exchange stays whereby both families reciprocate hospitality.
But the really cool part is that the family you stay with and the country you opt for is completely your choice. Which means that you can match up with another travel loving family who has the same interests as you, kids of similar ages, and you get to experience a country on a completely different level. It’s a win for everyone.
Another aspect of this kind of travel adventure means you get the opportunity to immerse your family in a new language. Which is surprisingly easy to pick up the basics of when it’s all around you and you’re having fun. So don’t worry if you’ve never studied another language before. Homestay hosts are excellent teachers and usually speak fluent English too.
If you fancy it you can even choose to stay with a family who can provide more structured language lessons to all or part of your family. Parents find this especially useful for their kids’
progression in their foreign language studies and often see grade improvements. Especially when it is then reinforced through play as they make friends with the host family’s children.
Whether you fancy a family vacation with plenty of nature and outdoorsy stuff, a city break with lots of museums and interesting architecture, a beach getaway in warmer climates, or a mixture of all three, there are plenty of family home-stays available with Lingoo, the worlds biggest language and homestay club.
It’s totally commonplace for families who choose a family language exchange or homestay vacation to make friends for life. Especially when you have bonded over partaking in shared hobbies, eating meals together and learning about each others different cultures. Plus while the kids are hanging out, you get to relax and enjoy some adult conversation.
Simply visit the Lingoo website, choose your target language, a stay for a family group, the type of stay (paid or exchange) and a list of matches will pop up. From there you can narrow your search further or click through to view the family’s profiles in detail complete with photographs, prices and reviews.
If you like what you see simply sign up and start a conversation through the secure messaging system with your chosen homestay hosts. And rest assured Lingoo take your family’s safety and security very seriously, all hosts go through a stringent validation process and are verified by a human being. Happy travels!
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Today’s article was brought to you by Lingoo.com.
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]]>The post Top Reasons to Take a Family Skiing Trip appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>Getting kids involved in a range of sports is not only great for their health, but can also be heaps of fun for the whole family. Whilst sporting activities are undoubtedly easier in the warmer months, winter activities need not be as challenging as you may think.
Here are some great reasons to take a skiing holiday with the kids:
Your child will get a lot of exercise outdoors, even just by walking from your accommodation to the ski lifts! Getting kids more interested and involved in snow sports gives them active options during the winter months, a time when many people slow down and resist leaving the house. The cold air is crisp and fresh, offering a wonderful break from the pollution and fumes of the city. Rather than hearing the impatient honking of traffic, your kids will hear the sounds of nature as well as joyful cheers and cries of other kids enjoying the snow. Skiing enables you to keep your family active all year round. All that extra energy is burned off and your kids will sleep soundly at night!
Just like the beach, kids usually can’t help but get excited when seeing snow. It is soft and crisp, they can pick it up and throw it, build a beautiful snowman, or just slide around in it all day long. Pretty much anything you do on snow creates a good time for kids. These memories will stick with them for years to come.
Photo by Enis Yavuz on Unsplash
Skiing and snowboarding really are sports for everyone; there are plentiful opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to learn how to do them and improve. When you visit a ski resort, you’re generally never far from a ski school. Lessons are usually available for both adults and kids, and give the chance of not only learning and perfecting a new skill but also meeting other people. It is possible at some resorts to have group family lessons. There are also those that offer programs especially tailored for physically challenged guests, meaning that there are no restrictions to enjoying the snow and great outdoors.
There is usually a wide array of other activities available for families to enjoy after a busy day on the slopes or if a change is wanted. A lot of resorts have heated swimming pools, perfect for children who love the water as well as the snow. Have a great workout with some cross-country skiing or Nordic walking – kids are often intrigued by snow shows! Go on a winter nature spotting ramble, enjoy sledding, build a snowman, play games in front of a roaring fire, and more! Depending on the location, your kids can enjoy activities like dog sledding and riding on a snowmobile, and there are many family-friendly resorts that have excellent kids’ programs.
Photo by jesse orrico on Unsplash
Looking for some uninterrupted and special time with your child? Taking up a sport as a family not only increases the recreational time you spend together, but also gives you something to share between adventures. Chairlift rides are an opportunity to laugh and chat together and share the joy of being in the beautiful outdoors.
Photo by Gabriel Santiago on Unsplash
Day care and ski-school programs are designed to free-up parents to spend time alone and worry less about their little snow babies. The idea is that parents can choose to have time to themselves or with the children, all the while knowing that their children are enjoying themselves as much as the parents. Your kids can meet new friends and join in with varied activities whilst you hit the slopes with vigor, explore the local shops, chill out in a spa, or enjoy a few après-ski drinks.
There really are many reasons to take the kids skiing!
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]]>The post Amazing Family Skiing Destinations in North America appeared first on FlyingKids.
]]>Here are some of our top picks for a fantastic family skiing holiday in North America:
A beautiful, safe, and fun skiing area, boundless adventures await ski-loving families in Beaver Creek. As well as enjoying a variety of well-groomed slopes that are suitable for different levels of skier and brushing up on skills in the ski schools, visitors can also glide around on the open-air ice rink, have some indoor fun at the excellent Avon Recreation Park with its water park, pools, and gym, get active with a dog-sledding expedition, enjoy snowmobile rides, and explore the pretty villages. Play centres are perfect for younger kids.
Photo by Milo McDowell on Unsplash
A stunningly picturesque area, Alberta’s Lake Louise is a top place for scenic skiing and snowboarding. There are skiing lessons for kids as well as a lively day care centre – great for if you want some time alone on the more challenging slopes and if your little ones want a rest from the snow with some new little friends. The Showtime Terrain Park offers excitement and thrills galore for older kids and teenagers.
With a great assortment of family-friendly accommodation options, tempting places to eat and drink, 14 ski lifts, and brilliant snowboarding and skiing opportunities for all, Blue Mountain is a firm favourite. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and set out to explore by foot, twirl around on ice skates, enjoy the pretty wintery views, have a go on the fun Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, and relax or splash about at the water park. The ski school provides great tuition to starters, building their confidence ready to hit the bigger slopes.
The area around the sparkling Lake Tahoe is a treasure trove for families seeking diversity and heaps of outdoor fun. The resort of Northstar is particularly popular, with a thrilling bungee trampoline, night time hiking with snowshoes, snow tubing, and cooking around fire pits.
A beautiful ski town that includes not one but two fabulous mountains, Whistler / Blackcomb is known for being one of Canada’s premier skiing destinations. As well as easy to access slopes, kids can have fun at the awesome play areas spread around the area. A beginner’s terrain park and snow tubing add to the pleasure, and there is a good selection of restaurants and accommodation options.
Another popular Canadian ski destination, Marble Mountain has loads of cool activities for the little ones, as well as a good choice of slopes. Childcare facilities are available as are lessons for kids and adults. Enjoy beautiful snowy walks, and daring souls can have a go on the adrenaline-fueled zip line.
Wherever you’re heading off for your ski vacation, don’t forget to take along a copy of the Kids’ Travel Guide – Ski.
Enjoy the snow!!
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