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How to Plan a Screen-Free and Stress-Free Holiday with Kids


family playing sand on the beach

It’s that time of the year again. School is out for summer and everyone is planning their holidays. Travel with children can be magical, creating memories that last a lifetime. However, they can also be stressful if not planned properly. Plus, in our digital age, balancing screen time with quality family time can be challenging.


Here's a guide to planning a screen-free and stress-free holiday with your kids, focusing on meaningful interactions and shared experiences. 


1. Start the Conversation Early

The key to a successful screen-free holiday begins before you even leave home. Initiate conversations about the upcoming trip with your children, regardless of their age. Before leaving home, discuss the places you'll visit and activities you'll do. Let them help choose activities or attractions to visit, discuss the itinerary with them so they know what to expect and assign them small responsibilities to make them feel important. This builds excitement and anticipation for the trip.


2. Establish Clear Guidelines

Set clear expectations about screen use during the holiday. Agree on specific times when screens are allowed (e.g. during long travel periods, pre-dinner). For example, designate specific screen time at the hotel or family home. For instance, "Let's have 30 minutes of individual time, then we'll head out for dinner at 6:00 PM." Stick to these agreed times consistently, modelling how to keep promises for your children. Also establish screen-free zones or times (e.g., during meals or family activities). Be sure to have some alternatives to digital entertainment such as card games, travel-sized board games, or puzzle books. Also, bring along books or audiobooks for quiet times. 


3. Embrace Mirroring to Encourage Good Habits

Children learn through observation and social interaction. Use this to your advantage. Instead of telling children to read, show them how enjoyable reading can be during quiet times at the hotel. Read with them or to them, depending on their age. Apply this principle to drawing, writing, and other creative activities you'd like your children to engage in during downtime. Remember, consistency is key. Avoid using excuses like "I've had a long day at work" to justify your screen time while expecting children to engage in other activities. Children's mirror neuron system (MNS) is activated by repeated actions, forming habits that become part of their daily expectations. And they can only mimic habits they see.



4. Discuss the activities together 

During the holiday, engage in meaningful conversations about your experiences. Instead of simple yes/no questions, model thoughtful responses and encourage your children to share their opinions. For example, "I found the colours in that painting really vibrant. What did you think about it?" Remember to acknowledge their responses without judgment. You could also encourage your children to document their experiences. Provide each child with stationery and set aside time each evening to write or draw about the day's adventures.This not only reduces screen time but also creates a lasting memento of the trip.


5. Embrace Spontaneity

While planning is essential, it's equally important to leave room for spontaneity and unstructured time during your holiday. This approach can lead to some of the most memorable and enjoyable moments of your trip. Don't overschedule your days. By leaving gaps in your itinerary you have time for unexpected discoveries or simply for downtime. Sometimes, the most magical moments come from following a child's curiosity. If your child shows interest in something unexpected, be willing to adjust your plans to explore it further. Finally, plan for lazy days. Schedule entire days with no set plans. These can be perfect for relaxing at a park, beach, or even in your accommodation. 


Conclusion

Planning a screen-free and stress-free holiday with kids is about creating an environment that naturally encourages interaction, curiosity, and shared experiences. By starting conversations early, modelling desired behaviours, and choosing activities that promote family bonding, you can create a holiday that's not only enjoyable but also strengthens family relationships. 


Remember, the goal is not to eliminate screens entirely but to create a balance that allows for meaningful connections and memorable experiences. With patience, consistency, and a positive attitude, you can cultivate habits that extend beyond the holiday, enriching your family life long after you've returned home.


Have a fabulous holiday!

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