It’s been a minute since I’ve posted because motherhood is hard! Finding the time to balance my blogging aspirations and raising two kids is no easy task. But I’m back and ready to role, feeling the need to share and engage with my community.
So am I alone here or have you begun to dread traveling with the kids because something crazy and unexpected always seems to happens?
From illnesses to broken bones and ongoing tantrums there always something. Once my second born joined our clan I decided it would be nice to travel as a family of four to three different destinations and I must confess each one had challenges I’ve definitely learned from.
The first entailed high fevers with no familiar medication on hand. On the second trip to LA we wound up in the ER, and on the third we needed up a helicopter due to evacuate us off an island in Belize due to my asthma attack! 
תמונות מהחופשה ממרכז אמריקה
The flight to Belize
Jet lag, getting through flights, connecting were some of my most difficult hurdles so I want to share some tips that may help you make the not-so-friendly skies a little friendlier.
1) Flights – choosing the right flight is so important. I suggest picking one when you are alert and have the most patience (i.e. 4am flights are not recommended) Day flights work well along with early evening flight that flow with bedtime hours. Make sure your connection is at least 2 / 2.5 hours but no more than 2.5 / 3 hours.
2) Routine – a new environment is a challenge for kids, and sometimes for adults too! Being away for our usually routine, home, and bed should not be taken lightly. Planning meals, bedtimes, and naps is a balancing act but try to stay the course as much as possible.
3) Anticipation – I found that involving my kids in the planning process was beneficial pre-flight and during the trip! Update them daily and talk about the agenda so they know what to expect (i.e. breakfast, activity, nap, etc) If you are on the road, bring books and toys for entertainment. Ask them before you leave what they need/would like to bring along for the drive/plane. Don’t forget pacifiers, blankie, and/or special stuffed animal for witching hour!
4) Snacks – bring food from home you know your kiddos enjoy is key. Some kids gets hungry when they wake up, and are used to a specific snack- be sure you have it on hand if possible. I love to bring different healthy options in my carry-on to offer throughout the flight.
5) Pick your battles – I do my best to contain myself and let the kids be as independent and themselves in the terminal as possible. If there is a layover I try to let them roam freely rather than having them sit in the stroller. I let them pick their preference when I can and try to offer alternatives when they are defiant.
6) Make travel arrangements that mesh with you kids age and character– if you’re planning on a tight itinerary you may find your kids are exhausted by the end of the day. I’ve learned that nap time is important for everyone (including parents) and I try to stick to one activity in the morning and one in the evening.
So to sum it up, I’d say flexibility with some boundaries is the name of the game. Figure out what works for you while maintaining structure. And most of all try to enjoy yourself and make sweet memories with your offspring. Watching them enjoy/learn new customs while visiting a new culture is priceless.
Tell me about you traveling experiences.
How are your trips with thr kiddos?
