Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Trip with Kids: From Vaccinations to Games on the Go

2023-06-08 15:25:52

Prepare well for the trip

Good preparation is half the job. Shirley: ‘Tell your child what awaits him during the journey. For example, where you are going and how long the journey will take. You can show the car or escape route to your child in advance. Together with your child, pack a backpack with things so that he can enjoy himself during the trip. Also, ask your child what he would like to take with him. Think of a tablet, toys and fun music, but also something tasty for the road. In addition, a travel pillow is also useful to take with you.’ Are you going on a trip with young children and do you find it difficult to determine what to take with you? Then view our holiday checklist.

Vaccinations

Make sure your child has all vaccinations National vaccination program has had. Are you traveling outside Western Europe? Then make an appointment 6 to 8 weeks in advance at the passenger consultation hour GGD Traveler Care from the GGD Rotterdam-Rijnmond for travel advice and any additional vaccinations. Especially if your child has not (yet) had any vaccinations, it is important to be well informed about risks in the holiday country.

Also view the current travel advice for your holiday country wijsopreis.nl.

Take it easy

‘Vacation starts with the journey, just enjoy it! If you are in a hurry, your child will feel it too. That creates a restless atmosphere,’ emphasizes Shirley. ‘Pack on time, leave on time and ensure as little stress as possible. Being relaxed during a long journey is very important. Disagreement in a small space is no fun. For example, try to indicate a limit or offer an alternative when using a screen. But don’t worry if you can’t get your child off quickly, it’s okay to deviate from your own rules once in a while. Please indicate clearly that your child is only allowed a little longer behind the screen during the journey.’ Shirley is happy to give you some tips for the car and plane trip.

Tips for a car trip

• Before the trip, give your child a light meal to prevent motion sickness (bring spit bags just in case).
• Take regular breaks. Make sure your child does some exercise during the break. Bring a ball or badminton rackets.
• Bring extra food and drinks and (not too big) toys.
• Pack a separate bag with the items you want quick and easy access to.
• For a long trip for younger children, pack some small gifts. Your child can unwrap a present every hour. Make sure the gifts are suitable for playing in the car, such as a coloring book, animal figure or travel game.
• Children up to 135 centimeters must be in a car seat. 84% of children in the Netherlands are not transported properly. Take the test on the website of SafetyNL and find out if you are transporting your child safely.
• Are you traveling with a teenager? Also make sure he knows how to enjoy himself during the ride. For example, let him bring a nice book or magazine or download a movie or series that he can watch during the ride.
• Which music is on in the car can sometimes cause discussions, especially with older children. You can agree that you take turns choosing which music is on. Or provide earplugs or headphones so that your child can listen to his own music.

Tips for a flight

• Inquire about the facilities on the plane.
• Try to book a direct flight and take into account the travel times and your child’s day and night rhythm.
• Dress your child in comfortable clothing.
• Divide the belongings over the hand luggage and suitcases. If a suitcase is lost, you will not immediately lose everything.
• Check in on time (preferably online) so that you know that everyone is together.
• Have your child eat or drink something during take-off and landing. Swallowing can relieve pressure on the ears.

Play fun games on the go

In addition to entertaining yourself, you can also play games together. For example: I see I see what you don’t see, who am I, read and draw. Games such as: counting aloud and language games such as spelling words or a word snake are also very fun and educational.

Questions or more information?

Learn more about this subject? Please rest assured contact with us. Our professionals are happy to think along with you!