Vacations can be exciting times, especially after the year 2020 and parts of 2021 have been. However, vacations are often a time of uncertainty and anxiety for some children. The slightest change, even positive change, and ones that children are excited about can still cause anxious thoughts to run wild in their minds.

This year is unique in itself as many families canceled their travel plans last year with COVID-19 and children have gotten even more comfortable being at home. If you are planning to travel this summer, here are some tips that might help your child prepare for vacation:

Schedules & Routines.

Make an itinerary or schedule ahead of time and share it with your child. Try to incorporate any routines from home into your vacation.
Ask your child for input on activities to do OR what days they want to do the activities.
Make note of your child’s anxiety with scheduling. Scheduling too far out can make some children anxious for weeks. However, waiting too long and scheduling last minute might also create some anxiety.

Transportation.

If the way you are getting to your destination is new to your child (e.g., airplane) show them pictures and videos ahead of time.
Make a “travel bag” for the plane, car ride, train ride, etc. Be sure to include activities and items that can occupy your child and calm them down. Let your child take as much control as possible over this bag. Some of my favorite memories traveling as a child are when I packed up my airplane bag with all the important things for my plane ride.
If possible, get some “travel-special” snacks ready to go! Grab some special treats that your child might not get frequently and make them a tradition when traveling.

Home Sickness.

If your child gets homesick easily, have them bring a photo of their room or the house. They can even download some photos onto electronic devices now.
Stuffed animals and blankets should also be considered when traveling. These can help not only to reduce homesickness, but nighttime anxieties, and discomfort throughout the day.

Family Pets.

If the family pet is not going on vacation with you, have your child bring a picture of them. For a family pet that might be being watched at home by a relative or friend, see if you can also video chat with the pet while on vacation.
For boarded pets, speak to your child about how the dog is going on their own vacation and all the fun they will have with the other animals. Allow the child to pack the dog’s things (food, toys, blankets, etc.) prior to boarding.

Safety.

Talk to your child about what they should do and where they should go if you get separated.
Keep a form of important contacts and medical information in their bag.
If your child is old enough to have a phone, check into different apps to monitor their location.
Check the COVID-19 protocols for where you are traveling and be prepared. Even if you are traveling to the same location you have for years, speak to your child about the changes they might see.
For COVID-19 travels, make sure your vaccination cards, if needed, are in a secure location.
For COVID-19 travels, be sure you make enough masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes until your reach your destination.
If you are planning to continue to see any medical or mental health providers while traveling, check with them prior to leaving. Telehealth restrictions vary by state and licensure and your provider might not be able to see you.

In a world where technology is everywhere, be sure to take some time away from screens while on vacation. Yes, I know you want to capture that photo of them at the beach. However, memories last longer when you actually experience them, and I mean to experience them away from behind the phone/camera lens. Enjoy the time with your loved ones and be safe in your travels!