Family Holidays: Tips for Peace and Harmony
Whatever you enjoy, family holidays are a chance for everyone in the family to get reacquainted and spend quality time together. It’s a chance to talk to your children and find out what’s going on in their lives.
It’s important to keep the communication lines open and a family holiday is a good opportunity to do that. Having a good relationship with them is one of the most important factors in keeping children out of trouble.
Studies have shown that when families take holidays and travel together, they are more likely to eat together and are less likely to argue.
They do not watch as much television because they are involved in doing things together. Kids even report that their parents seem to act differently while on holiday.
While a family holiday is a good time to connect with each other, communication problems that are already there will not automatically disappear. Especially with teenagers it is important to listen and be flexible.
Find out what they would like to do and plan accordingly. While even teenagers need boundaries, it is important to avoid needless confrontation. Explain why you make the decisions you do and show them positive attention.
What do you like to do on family holidays? Go to the beach or visit different places in the country? Maybe you like camping or visiting relatives?
Kids will appreciate being included in travel plans. There’s a good chance they will choose a theme park or the beach if those are among the options. Sometimes it works well for a teenager to take a special friend along on holiday.
While this might increase the load, the teen is likely to really appreciate it. Sometimes it works well to go on holiday with their grandparents instead if there is a special relationship here that can help them open up and communicate about their concerns.
While on holiday, if teens are uncooperative or behave improperly, try to deal with the problem in private. Teens are very aware of embarrassment and it is needlessly mean to exploit this sensitivity.
In fact, if you explain to them how their behavior embarrasses you, they in turn might work harder at getting along and acting appropriately.
Children will be happier on family vacations if they have snacks, drinks and entertainment. Few enjoy a long ride in the car! To save some extra money and provide individual CD players or hand-held video games might be a good idea. Don’t forget to take plenty of bathroom stops.
Sometimes they enjoy the ride more if they can help you follow the map. This is an educational activity for them as well. By following these suggestions, your family holiday can make a happy memory.
