Preparing your Kids for the Trip
It’s important to recognize that you’ll be changing your child’s routine, and while they may be excited about the trip, not knowing what to expect can be scary.
With very young toddlers and babies, starting to talk about the trip the night before is fine. With older kids, start earlier, telling them about the destination, what you’ll do there, and perhaps teaching them some of the local language (or learning it together). You can find books about the destination or look at pictures online. Be careful that in your excitement to teach your kids about where they're going you don't burn them out on the subject, or remove the joy of discovery and exploration from the trip itself. Let their interest level guide you.
Beginning at about age two (and younger for kids with rich imaginations), you can give your child a small bag and ask them to pack a few important items. (We use Eagle Creek Packing Cubes because they're small, lightweight, and have a handle). Perhaps they will choose some toys, a treasured lovey, or a few books. Let your child carry the bag or hold it on their lap (but make sure you have space to stow it when they're tired). While your children are young, you'll still need to pack your own busy bag for them, but as they get older they'll learn to provide their own entertainment. You'll be suprised how comforting a self-packed suitcase can be, even for a very young child. My son used to carry his around with him all day whenever we were out of town.
In addition to telling your kids about your destination and what they should expect to do once there, make sure you share all the details about how you'll get there. Things that seem little (or obvious) to you, like riding to the airport in a taxi or shuttle, might be stressful for young children. On the day of travel keep reiterating what's going to happen next and, when appropriate, what expectations you have of your children (e.g. I expect you to wear your seatbelt on the plane just like you do in the car.
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