If you’re a parent who desperately needs a break, fear not! Planning a worry-free vacation without the kids is possible and can be an enjoyable and rejuvenating experience. Here are some tips on ensuring a smooth and stress-free vacation sans kids.
Select the Right Caregiver
The first step in any successful travel plan is choosing the most suitable and trustworthy caregiver for your children. The most obvious choice is the grandparents, if they’re willing and able, or the fun uncle (Funcle!) and their spouse to take the kids in or come and stay with them while you’re away.
But if you don’t have family available, choose someone you know well and trust, such as an experienced babysitter you’ve relied on for shorter stays in the past.
In addition to being thoroughly trustworthy, any caregiver you select should be someone the kids like. The experience will be one they’ll never want to repeat if you choose someone who is indifferent or who views the job as simply hanging around the house to ensure no major disaster occurs.
A caregiver should genuinely enjoy creating and supervising activities for children and be someone you’d trust to drive the kids to activities.
Finally, ask a family member or friend who couldn’t stay with the kids for the duration of your vacation to check in with them from time to time and report back to you that they’re doing fine and having fun.
Leave Detailed Information
Ease your concerns by thoroughly preparing your caregiver with all the necessary information. Create a folder or binder with your phone number, email, and other contact details. Include contact information for neighbors, close relatives, and the children’s doctor.
Make a comprehensive list of your children’s daily routines, including meals, activities, and bedtime routines. Communicate any allergies or medications your children may need. Leave contact information for your children’s doctors and dentists and emergency information. Make sure the caregiver has insurance cards and other information necessary to obtain care for your kids until you can get there in an emergency. Provide details about how to operate any appliances, your Wi-Fi password, and any other relevant household information.
Telling the Kids
Prepare your children for your departure by discussing the upcoming trip with them. Focus on positive and reassuring messages. Tell them about the fun things they’ll do with their caregiver while you’re away. Encourage your kids to contact you if they want to. Reassure them that you’ll be back soon and can’t wait to hear about their adventures.
Communication During Your Travels
Decide in advance how often you’ll check in and be sure to stick to that plan. Use apps like Skype, FaceTime, or WhatsApp to see your kids’ faces and share moments of your trip with them. Before leaving, hide little notes, treats, or small gifts for your kids to discover and let them know that you’re thinking about them.
Planning a worry-free vacation without the kids might seem challenging, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to an enjoyable and much-needed break. So go ahead, book that trip, and Moms, make sure you pack the vacation essentials for summer, so you’ll return refreshed and ready to reconnect with your little ones!
