When it comes to traveling with kids, there are many factors to consider. Thinking about what you’re going to pack for them and activities to keep them busy. But one thing that’s often overlooked is how children are affected while traveling.
What are some challenges your children face?
Do you ever feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster while traveling with kids? You aren’t alone! It’s a beautiful experience when everything runs smoothly – sharing new sights and making lifelong memories! Nothing is better than taking in all life has to offer with your family.
However, it isn’t always smooth sailing – and that is okay. Your children are sleeping in beds they aren’t familiar with, out of their routine, and out of the comfort of their own home. They are experiencing new sounds, sights, and smells, making it harder to process everything at once. Your kids are unsure of what to expect and what’s coming next. Changes in time zones, weather, and not having their toys with them. It is easy to understand why your children may feel uneasy or even anxious.
How can you tell if your children are struggling?
Typically, it is noticeable for parents if their children are struggling. Some signs to look for are:
- More than usual crying, emotional outbursts, or screaming
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Lethargic
- Unwilling to eat or overeating (compared to their normal intakes)
- Unmotivated or not wanting to do activities they typically enjoy
- Quieter than usual or withdrawing
- Any behavior unusual for your child
If your child is experiencing any of these, it is crucial to remember to stay calm. Your child isn’t trying to be difficult; they aren’t doing this on purpose. A great quote to remember during the challenging moments is:
“Your child isn’t giving you a hard time; they’re having a hard time.”
As parents, it is your responsibility to help your children through hard times. This may be one of those moments when your love and patience are needed. Provide them with comfort knowing you are there for them, and as a family, you’ll find joy and create beautiful traveling memories.
Ways to improve your children’s mental health while traveling
You are connected to your children; as parents, you know them better than anyone else. Their needs, wants, and behaviors. You can pick up on anything unusual when they’re starting to get sick or mood changes.
This will carry on while you’re on the road as well. However, extra attention is needed. Make sure you’re monitoring your children more than usual. Staying connected to your children will help you give them exactly what they need, making traveling easier and, more importantly, more enjoyable for the entire family.
Try doing these tips while on your family adventures:
- Look your children in their eyes when talking to them.
- Explain how you feel and open a conversation for them to discuss their feelings.
- Discuss the next thing on the agenda.
- Snuggle with them.
- Take time every day to talk about their day, what made them smile, what made them sad, what they enjoyed, and what they would like to do tomorrow.
- Do an activity with them that they enjoy.
- Play games while in car, train, or plane.
- During your adventures on your travels, take time to focus on your children.
- Give them favorite foods, comfort items, and a few comforts from home.
Keys for success
Traveling as a family will create memories your children will never forget. You are giving them wonderful opportunities to explore the world around them and their independence. As beneficial as traveling is, there are still challenges. Some ways to reduce stress and ensure everyone’s mental health is in a good place, try these tips:
Don’t overpack. It is easy to keep tossing things you may need in your bag. Only take what you need; traveling light will help you during your travels.
Take it slow and give yourself time. Rushing can create chaos, putting everyone on edge. You are more likely to have an unpleasant traveling experience if you do not allow enough time. Instead, give your family plenty of time to explore, take it all in, have extra snacks, and truly enjoy where you are.
Pack a few security items. Your children will feel a piece of home and comfort if you pack a few of their favorite items. If you notice they are missing home or having trouble sleeping, you will have a few of their things to provide them with.
Explain as you travel. One of the most incredible things you can do to help your children maintain a healthy mental space is talk to them. It sounds simple but genuinely does have a tremendous effect. Explaining what you are doing now and next will give them confidence and remove the uneasiness they may experience if they know what to expect. They will be more comfortable and look forward to the next activity.
Provide energy releases. It is essential to provide your children with ways to burn off energy. Have a picnic outside and then play at the park or run around. Give them stimulating brain activities to help burn energy and keep their minds busy. This will be helpful when you have an event you need them to sit still or use inside voices.
Plan ahead. Having a plan will keep you calm. If you are relaxed, your kids are also more likely to be. Kids can sense how you’re feeling, so keep things light.
Have snacks. Yes, snacks may help occupy them. However, kids burn energy quickly and work up an appetite. They need snacks to keep their bellies full, so they aren’t uncomfortable.
Have them pack an activity bag. Get your kids excited and look forward to traveling. If they pack their activities, there is a higher chance they’ll want to do them. It will keep them busy during downtimes.
Involve the kids. Give your children some places you can stop along your travels – museums, parks, zoos, etc. Including them on their family travel plans is a great way to bond, have your children feel included, and get them excited for what’s to come!
Water, water, water. Keeping everyone hydrated is key to feeling good and being healthy. If they feel good, it’ll be better for everyone. Be easy on yourself. Give yourself grace. As wonderful as it is to travel with the ones you love, it does bring stress.
Benefits of traveling with your children
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but seeing the world through their eyes is worth it. It’s also a great way to improve children’s mental health. Travel can provide new and stimulating experiences, help kids learn about other cultures, and promote independence and self-confidence. While traveling can sometimes be stressful, it’s important to remember that children are resilient and adaptable. With some planning and preparation, you can make traveling with kids an enriching experience for everyone involved.
We hope that you enjoyed this article about the mental health challenges for children while traveling. If you enjoyed this article or would like to see more like it, feel free to send us a note.