Get Ready for the Staycations or Vacations with the Little Ones?

There's been a lot of talk on whether vacations (Overseas Holiday) or staycations (Local Holiday) are better for young children but I really don't think we should be concerned about what "experts" think since they are outsiders and not directly involved. Whether we go for vacations or staycations, as a family we are creating memories probably more so for the parents when the little one (LO) is younger. Time spent together as a family is crucial especially when we are now living in an era of constantly being connected or wired to our work.

Before going for that vacation or staycation, one needs to be able to answer the following questions:

(1) Who is this vacation/staycation for? Parents or the LOs?

The answer to this question determines the purpose of the trip. Some parents forget to think about this and end up disappointed at the end. If the purpose was for the parents to be recharged, then maybe it is better to go for the trip without the kids if possible. If that is not possible, then considering a trip which allows for the LOs to be cared for so that you can have a breather. If the purpose of the trip is to spend time with the LOs then the agenda for the trip will be filled with kid-friendly activities while ensuring parts of the routine the LO is used to is still in place.

(2) If the LO has a medical issue will we as parents be able to manage the situation?

LOs often fall sick especially with a new environment and failing to observe good hygiene practices. It is important to be familiar with the medical issues that could arise during the trip and ensure you have packed sufficient medication for the "what if". A visit to the paediatrician prior to the trip could suffice. Also being familiar with how to go about getting medical help in that new environment would be a good back up plan.

Also, ensure that your agenda for the trip is fluid. Keep an open mind on how plans have to change should such a situation arise.

Sometimes we parents fall sick instead during the trip. So we need to consider if we can still care for the LOs given such a scenario. A good alternative will be to go for the trip with other family friends with LOs in the same age range or to go with the grandparents.

(3) Can the LO's needs be met?

- Diet: Infants are easy since they survive on milk till their first birthday. So the question will be how to go about preparing the formula milk or the comfort level of the mother to breastfeed in public. As they grow older their preference for foods could make it easier or tougher. If your LO like mine is a fussy eater, you will probably need to consider how to homecook his meals.

- Sanitation: Infants are so soft that I feel I have to be extra careful when giving them their baths. You can request for a baby bath tub at most locations or just BYO depending on your comfort level. Some hotels also provide baby toiletries which is a plus.

- Sleep: You can request for a cot but not all cots are suitable for your LO. They are able to tell the difference so be prepared for some tough nights at the new environment.

- Transportation: Plane or train or cruise or car. It's all new to the LO. Will the LO need his own safety seat or bassinet? Will the LO experience motion sickness? In some countries they are very strict on which types of car seats can be used so please do check up on that.

Go for your vacation or staycation with an open mind that hiccups are part and parcel of the holiday. Enjoy the process and be prepared!

#Holidays #FirstTimeParent