When you travel with children you experience things in a whole different way. Challenge yourself to slow down, explore, wonder and go with the flow. Challenge your family to learn and try new things. Most of all have fun! Here are a few tips from Kiva to help you and your little ones get the most out of your trip.
1. Pack a scooter!
If you plan on exploring a new city by foot, it’s always helpful to have a fun alternative mode of transportation for the kids so they don’t get too tired out.
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2. Go to the local food market and let your kids pick out something new to try.
This one is great to expand the horizons of those picky eaters!
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3. Learn greetings in the local language before you go.
Knowing a few phrases such as “Hi, how are you?” and “My name is ___” is always a good idea. You kids can practice with you and try it out on the road.
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4. Encourage your child to keep a travel journal.
Writing a few sentences each day is an easy way for kids to reflect on what they’ve seen and experienced. Plus, old travel journals are always a fun thing to pull out and reread as your kids get older!
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5. Plan an activity with a local guide.
Whether it’s surfing in Costa Rica or biking in France, an outdoor activity can be a fun way to immerse your family in the local culture.
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6. Give your kids each a disposable camera.
Then they can take pictures of their favorite things and document the trip for themselves!
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7. Take a class at a local art studio.
Art is a great introduction to the culture of another country, and an activity that most kids really enjoy! It can also help to get the whole family involved.
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8. See an early evening concert or dance performance.
Dancing is another great way to be active with the family and learn about a new culture. This is bound to be a memorable activity for everyone.
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9. Start a collection that can be continued as your children travel to new places.
Collections of items such as currency, stamps, postcards, or other goodies from the country are great mementos and can be replicated in most places that you travel.
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10. Write a postcard home to a friend.
Your kids will be more excited to try new things if they know they get to share their experiences!