Parenting Coaching Tips for Family Outings
Travel can become a challenge when you are on a tight budget. Great chance to use your creativity. You can plan your family getaway to take advantage of low-cost activities.
There is no rule that you have to go far away to have fun! Even if you spend time at the beach, choose one that is in the city or close to a nearby city with lots of things to do.
Remember how important it is to hold a family meeting before choosing this mini-vacation. Find out what types of activities everyone likes. Make a list to help you decide which cities have it all. This is the key to finding a place that will have enough to please the whole family.
Consider using public transportation within whatever city you choose. Most major cities have subways or some form of mass transit to get around. If little ones are a part of your family at this stage, consider an easy to transport stroller.
Some idea starters:
City Events: Look for cities in the area that hold annual events that are free and open to the public. These can include outdoor carnivals, fairs, fireworks and parades, balloon launches, fishing contests, competitions, etc. Carnivals always have games and rides for both the younger kids and the teens.
Tourist Attractions:
Again look up the free and low-cost activities including outdoor markets, street performers and ethnic festivals that are in various parts of the city.
Park Visits:
Look for the type where there are lots of places, concerts, possibly fishing, paddle boats or fishing. There may also be trails for families who are into hiking. Do remember, of course, the proper gear and repellents and sunscreen.
Guided City or Water Tours:
These are usually relatively low cost, but can fit in the budget if you also do a lot of free activities. You could take a bus tour or boat tour and see the many interesting landmarks in that city.
Museums:
Consider children’s museums, science centers and the interactive museums where kids are allowed to touch and see the items of interest.
These mini-vacations in the city can break up the monotony of a long summer when no big vacation is practical or affordable. The secret is to find places not far away that have something of interest for all the family members.
Sometimes just a little help from someone experienced outside your family gets you back on a positive track. Ask about my latest online webinars and coaching programs.