Holiday Fun?

The school holidays are upon us, and for many families, that means communal living or travel as a group. Sometimes, lightning strikes, and everything goes smoothly, but more often than not, there are a few hiccups on the road to rest and relaxation.

Often it’s more realistic to see a holiday as more a change of scenery.

It’s easy to lodge the idea in your psyche that everyone will have a Really Fabulous Time, only to find the reality of juggling the needs of multiple generations leaves Camp Leader a bit exhausted.

Here some ideas to keep your family holiday harmonious:

Lower your expectations

Without being negative, be realistic – over the course of a trip, it’s likely that there may be the odd tantrum, either from the two year old, the 42 year old or the 72 year old. Expecting perfect behaviour from everyone at all times is a big ask, particularly when they are out of their comfort zone.

Instead of dreaming of Utopia, expect a few moderately pleasant experiences be pleasantly surprised by anything more. Not every moment has to be magical, but you will discover magic often in the midst of upheaval – some of the best times travelling occur when everything goes a bit pear shaped and the best solution is to laugh until you cry.

Boredom is okay

“Mum, I’m bored,” is a horrifying thing to hear on holiday, but don’t over-schedule either – kids often become their most creative when there is no wifi, or after they have had some time to decompress. Make sure there’s plenty of downtime for your family to just ‘be.’

You are only as happy as your least happy child, goes the old saying, but children can be encouraged to be resourceful in a new place – set the expectations early that everyone needs to find their own fun sometimes, and even better, wifi free fun!

Parents and grandparents are entitled to a holiday – not only young children and teenagers.

Make plans before you depart

Intergenerational holidays can be great fun. However, everyone has their own views and boundaries – if you are a grandparent who loves to spoil your little darlings with daily ice-creams, but their parents prefer to live sugar free, have a chat before you go and set out some compromises. The same goes for bedtimes – letting kids stay up often backfires the next day, so accept advice from the professionals – parents.

Also, make sure any flights or connections are planned with all family members in mind – if anyone has mobility issues or needs regular rest, make sure there is adequate time for them – it makes the whole experience better for everyone.

Let a little bit of bad behaviour go

This applies as much to adults as children. Possibly more. The local brew can be heady, especially when mixed with an evening full of possibilities. Try thinking like you’re in Vegas; ‘What happens on tour, stays on tour’ – leave the recriminations at home.

Don’t do for others what they can do for themselves

Encourage kids to pack their own bags and then just run your eye over the contents, rather than doing it all yourself. Ask them to keep it tidy and repack it for transfers. It’s fine to delegate some regular tasks so that you can enjoy some down time too.

Factor in time alone

Everyone benefits from a little time alone, particularly on holiday. Make sure everyone gets a bit of regular quiet – be it a run, a snooze or getting lost in a book – it makes for great family relations. Banish any thoughts of selfishness: this is a holiday!