It is some of the happiest memories from my own (very happy) childhood, for sure.
And something I really want to spend both time and money on making memories from with my own two children.
I am talking about family holidays.
In fact, going on a family holiday is pretty much as good as it gets – parenting-wise. For me, anyway.
Travelling, seeing the world with my children, living in the moment with no stress and no strict routines, these are the moments I know I will treasure forever. And I hope the same is the case for my little ones.
And the bonus? Well, experts claim family holidays will not only provide you all with beautiful memories, but will also make your children both happier – and even smarter.
It is easy to see why family holidays are so lovely. In our manic busy world, escaping our everyday lives for a bit might be the only times the entire family is gathered in the same space for any length of time. Where we collectively are exposed to new experiences, sights, sounds and tastes, and where we, hopefully, spend a little more time connecting with each other rather than with our devices.
Studies have even proved the incredible benefits taking your children on a family holiday can have.
For instance, a
U.S. Department of Education study showed that kids who travel more scored higher on academic achievement tests. It might be also worth noticing that researchers discovered that those academic improvements were higher for the children whose holidays were educational in nature. For instance, by visiting museums or visiting places of historic significance etc.
Other studies have shown similar results.
A
2009 study by the Travel and Tourism Research Association at the University of Massachusetts showed that participating in “leisure activities” with your kids enhances your overall relationship and strengthens your bond.
Other research has found that travel and holidays together as a family can serve as a great way to combat stress and tension, and can teach families to communicate better and be kinder to each other.
Travel will also contribute to broaden your children's minds. Exposing them to different languages, cultures, foods, traditions and history will make them more tolerant, understanding, curious and aware – all things I think we can agree the world needs more of.
Another thing that all parents will no doubt relate to – the simple fact that seeing our kids happy, makes
us parents feel happier too. Meaning, of course, that travel not only makes our kids happier, but is also a real mood booster for mums and dads.
Do YOU love to travel with your little ones? Let us know in the comments or tweet us at @herfamilydotie
