When one thinks of vacations the images of sunny skies, sandy beaches and leisurely activities should come to mind. Vacations are meant to be breaks from the stresses and demands of everyday life. But it doesn’t have to be that way for kids. Learning can be done wherever you go even on vacation.
Ecotours – Even the most luxurious destinations can offer insight on the local geography and native animals. Snorkeling and boat tours are great ways to see what different locations have to offer. Younger children can stick to on shore activities such as hikes, museum visits, food samplings and off road expeditions. Learning about a new culture is a great way to introduce children to something new without them realizing it’s educational.
Local Interest – We aren’t planning a big vacation this year, instead we are working on a staycation. Our city is home to so much history about our country’s birth and development, there are endless options for learning. One day packed with state parks, museums and walking in the footsteps of our fore fathers is enough history to last the entire year. Talk with your local Visitors Center or Historical Society for tips on best times to visit, upcoming events and even appropriateness for children.
Road and Day Tripping – Taking a 2-day road trip might sound like a horrendous event for a family traveling with children. It doesn’t have to be. Put together an itinerary that enables you to make stops where the kids can learn something. Caves are a unique way to get kids exploring and learning about what goes on underground. Caves can be located all over the United States and incorporated into road trips because they don’t have to be daylong excursions. Local Farmers Markets are a fun way to see what local farmers and artisans have to offer while stocking up on snacks and souvenirs. State parks can offer glimpses into history while also providing rest stops and picnic areas, serving double duty activities.
The learning never has to stop. When school lets out and the kids are focusing on fun, offer them new ways and avenues of having fun. These ways can slow the brain drain that often happens on extended breaks.
Buckets and Spades photo courtesy of Flickr/GarryKnight
Caves photo courtesy of Crystal Caves Pennsylvania
I haven't been to a cave since I was a child. I want to take my kids one day so they can see how neat they are.
We are working on Staycations this year and can't wait until the kids can learn more about where we live. I think it is very important that children learn while on a vacation as well especially there city!
I think these are great tips! There are so many things to do in cities across the US even in your own area. We had a staycation last month and even though it was only an hour a way we felt like it was a whole other world. I had no idea some of the places and things to do in OKC but by searching the internet before we left I was able to find inexpensive and fun family friendly places to visit.
Great tips! I love visiting local museums and learning centers when we are traveling, my daughter enjoys them!
I like this post. THis is something to keep in mind when planning these summer vacays.
My mom always made learning on vacations fun for us kids! I love this post, it brings back so many great memories!!
These are all super fun ideas! I'd love to go on an Ecotour.
I always LOVED checking out caves when we went of family vacations! You can turn most things into a learning experience if you are creative enough to view it that way (some days we all need help to be creative though!)