Getting Your Toddler Ready For Their First Trip

An adventure awaits

Traveling is an exciting part of life for individuals of all ages. However, traveling for the first time can be slightly scary for a child. This may be their first time going away from home for a long time, or it might be the first time they are going somewhere and meeting a lot of strangers, as opposed to other members of your family. Here are some ways to ease any traveling anxiety and prepare them to enjoy their travels! 

1. Involve them in planning

Ask your child what kinds of places they would be interested in visiting. Do they want to go to the beach? Explore nature? Be in a city? By asking them about their interests, you can begin involving them in the process of choosing where to travel to. 

2. Find media about the places you’re going

If your travel destination is a popular one, there’s a good chance there are books, movies and videos about it. By engaging with media about the places you’re going, your child will begin to feel more familiar with the location, and excited that they can be just like the people in the books and movies they’re read and watched!

3. Make down time fun and educational

Traveling includes a lot of waiting around, so finding ways to combine education and entertainment for an edutaining way to keep your child’s mind active is a great way to combat boredom. Finding DIY for traveling activities to do during downtime is great as it can produce something your child can bring with them and show off while on vacation! 

4. Find fun activities to do

Finding specific activities that your child will enjoy is a way to not only schedule your trip itinerary but give them things to look forward to! If your child has specific interests, finding ways to incorporate those into the locations you visit can get them excited, and give them a sense of comfort.

5. Encourage exploration

Packing things like binoculars or a disposable camera is a great way to encourage your child to explore wherever you travel. Find games to play that require them to use binoculars, or ask them to photograph their favorite thing in whatever location you’re in. This will keep them engaged and entertained while exploring somewhere new!

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