Travelling with Kids

This summer, with much trepidation, we decided go for a week long holiday with kids. We chose a city that offered several attractions which could be enjoyed by kids. We knew it would be hard to manage two kids (aged 4 and 1.5 years), but how bad could it be? They may throw a few tantrums in public, get fussy with food or ask to go to the toilet at random places. We were experienced enough to manage this. We knew we could do this.

The next few days turned out much more adventurous than we had anticipated. I managed to get embarrassed due to a sudden loud comment made by my elder one at the airport, get reprimanded by three random strangers including getting threated by the airhostess (to not let us fly if my little one cut himself due to his antics). I managed to get lost (without my phone or money) at a largely spread out garden without any public announcement facility. We also took turns washing soiled clothes since our elder one suddenly caught the stomach bug. Apart from that, I was often heard calling out their names and seen running after them in public places just to prevent them from getting lost or hurting themselves badly. Mealtimes were not easy either and hubby and I often took turns to fill our tummies.

Now, you may ask if I managed to enjoy myself. The answer is a definite YES! Even in spite of all the madness, we did manage to stay on schedule, visit all the places we intended to and enjoyed ourselves together. Having them around made the trip even more eventful and in turn, memorable. Although, I must say that the kids may have returned from the vacation a lot more refreshed compared to us, considering they did not have to worry about several pieces of luggage, two hyperactive kids and all the paraphernalia that one needs to carry when travelling with small children.

If you plan to travel with kids anytime soon, here are a few things that could help you maintain your sanity:

Snacks: Carry a few treats and snacks with you at all times. Kids may get fussy when the food tastes unfamiliar and cranky when they get hungry. It helps to have a few favourite items at hand. A few treats once in a while as a reward for good behaviour keeps them happy.

Toys: A few small toys to keep them occupied on the flight or in the hotel room when you are getting ready. It might help you get those fifteen minutes of peace.

Medicines: All types of medicines which may not be readily available in a new city or a foreign country. Some countries need a doctor’s prescription for selling any medicine. Also, the might turn out to be much more expensive

Clothes: A set of clothes, wet wipes, and hand-sanitizer in your hand bag helps to stay clean and fresh at all times.

A Positive Attitude: This is the most important. It is easy to get bogged down by constant running, pulling, tugging and fussy eating. A very positive attitude and a constant reminder that you should relax even if things are not going as per your plan are the most important. After all, the mom in you needs a vacation too!

Have a good vacation! Make some beautiful memories! Also see more info @ http://www.parentedge.in