The Importance of Travel with Children

Often when my children were young, I was asked if it was hard to travel with small children and my answer was always no. And here is why...

As a child, I was unable to travel and swore when I grew up, I would do as much travelling as possible no matter if I had a family or not. With that mindset, I knew once I had children that I needed to adapt and overcome, to be patient and mix what I wanted to see with what would be entertaining for children as well as pack and plan accordingly because travel enhances a child in a multiple of ways.

One way is education. By travelling to other places, the child's mind is expanded through not only historical context but culturally as well. For example, in Williamsburg, Virginia, a child can be introduced to colonial food and learn how life was like in 1760's Williamsburg.

Aside from historical education, there is a cultural education through visits to restaurants, museums, local events and local landmarks. What would be considered good or fun food in one part of the country is unheard of in another part. One time, my oldest daughter and I went to Charleston SC and sampled boiled peanuts for the first time. We loved them but knew that where we lived in the North did not serve that in restaurants. On another trip with my younger daughter, we unknowingly encountered an annual parade in Philadelpha. It was called the Mummer's Parade and had been held since 1901.

And finally, it is always interesting to meet new people, see how the locals interact and hear what they have to say to give a new perspective on the American spirit. To hear them talk about their landmarks, buildings, restaurant and culture elevates a young person to a higher understanding of the human dynamic. Besides that, it is just fun, and a child is never too young to travel and experience the world - even if it is just your local area.

Go out with the children and discover new things, it will broaden their minds and lead to unforgettable memories.