Even in the UK, it literally takes a village to care for a toddler. I find it is much easier to have more than one person around. If you can, plan to go out with someone who can help you manage the challenges. Taking the family on holiday is also another great way to ensure you have help around.
Toilet trips, handling meltdowns, and changing their clothes several times a day can become exhausting. Not to mention the endless stories, because it takes toddlers six minutes to explain a one-minute story (cute, but also exhausting!).
yes, I am that person in a restaurant asking the waiter to take a group photo. But I’m also the person gifting amazing photobooks and framed pictures for special occasions. All of this wouldn’t be possible without the awkward photo requests!
I wanted to discuss some top reasons why you should consider taking family members with you, especially when traveling abroad
Memories
There is nothing better than having everyone together, to create memories and have those photos hanging on your wall for years to come. The memories you create on family holidays will be ingrained in your memory and talked about for a long time.
Imagine not having your family with you. Whilst it isn’t always practical to take the family – maybe you’re not that close, or it’s just not an option. That said, If you can, consider it.
Help with childcare
During our recent holiday, we managed two separate nights out, alone. It was what we needed whilst on holiday. Thankfully, my parents are great at helping out with childcare.
Maybe you want to do an activity you previously did together before having children. Or just enjoy some peace on the balcony on your holiday.
If you can, utilise family and ask for help.
For more travel tips and guides, check out my Travel Diaries page
Health benefits
As humans, we naturally feel well when the sun is shining and we have very little stress to contend with. Some of it is scientific – vitamin D. And I genuinely think the sunshine just helps you feel well mentally.
I want these benefits for myself, my child, and my wider extended family. It’s a great reason to bring them alone for the ride.
Reducing stress
A break away from everything, in new surroundings can do you the world of good.
I also want my family to experience this. Having a shared experience like this is what makes such fantastic memories.
Why not check out this post – Guide To The Running Of The Bulls 2023: Pamplona’s Epic Festival
The photos
If you follow any of my blogs, you may have noticed I love taking photos. Every wall at home is covered with picture frames and yes, I am that person in a restaurant asking the waiter to take a group photo. But I’m also the person gifting amazing photobooks and framed pictures for special occasions. All of this wouldn’t be possible without the awkward photo requests!
We wouldn’t want family members left out of the amazing holiday photos. And the obligatory airplane pictures.
Social and emotional development for children
My little one progressed massively in the 10 days we were on holiday. Both with speech and confidence.
Whilst I love nursery and the valuable lessons it teaches them. There is nothing better for their development than being surrounded by and encouraged by family members.
Learning manners
When staying in a hotel or apartment block, you can’t avoid the fact you will be eating out a lot. We booked a bed & breakfast and our little one was soon interacting with the restaurant staff as if they were family. In the evening she had to sit down for a meal and adopt a certain etiquette. All of which were great for her development.
For the meltdown moments, we had grandparents’ on hand to help out – we have already booked the next break away with them!
This was a really interesting read! Growing up my extended family and I were never that close so we never went on family holidays together, but I think after reading this it’s something I would consider when I have a family of my own. Thank you so much for sharing x
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It’s great that you would now consider doing something you didn’t get to experience when you were younger. We live and learn.
I enjoyed reading this post, you took me on holiday with you. I have got a little one and it’s the meltdowns that make me almost lose especially when other people are around, however like you say you learn a lot of things from travelling. Unlucky for me my parents are not near to help. Thanks for sharing
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Happy you enjoyed reading the post. I totally feel you on the meltdowns – it’s difficult. You’re doing an amazing job, especially without help nearby 🙂
Yessssss!!!!!!!! Traveling with family is awesome. I love traveling with my family.
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Traveling with family is great – I love it so much 🙂
It’s cool to have a family holiday. We tried and it does really help to reduce stress. These are spot on. Thank you for sharing!
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It’s great to experience these memories all together.
Sounds like you had a lovely holiday with your family, Sam. It’s great that your parents help you with the childcare too, so you can get some couple time. I love these tips and shall refer to this when we next go on holiday. Great post. Thanks for sharing. Jade MumLifeAndMe
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Glad you found the tips useful. We are very lucky my parents help out.
Planning a holiday trip with the family can become very stressful. Sometimes I need a vacation after that vacation. Lol. But I agree with you, people who live in the Caribbean are generally happier and less stressed. I think this is due to the green nature, and daily sunshine with associated Vitamin D. Going to the Caribbean during the holiday is always a good time.
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I felt like this after our holiday abroad, but I am glad we went. I would love to live in a sunnier climate, it would benefit my mental health.
I love going away with the family and totally agree with all the points you make, especially help with childcare! Haha
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Totally need help with the childcare. luckily, we also get on with our family and love going on holiday with them.