Tips to entertain the kids on holidays
Holidays and travel together as a family are such a special time, but we know the energy that goes into planning, packing, and ticking off the boxes before leaving can be all-consuming.
One of the challenges I have found the hardest over the years with two young children is finding games and activities we can take with us. Firstly, give us some time as parents to not have to constantly entertain. Also, gift us at least 20 minutes in peace for a cocktail or dinner that doesn't have to be consumed in a 10-minute rush. And make those journeys less stressful as well.
Don't get me wrong. I'm all for a bit of screen time for some peace, but I like the balance of the kids having some fun activities and games that keep them engaged and happy.
So, I thought I would take some time to share the amazing things I have found over the years that the kids love.
1. Travel snacking
We all know one of the best ways to keep kids busy during journey time is snacks. I cannot tell you the number of snack boxes and water bottles I have tried over the years, and Citron is now by far my favourite. They are the perfect size, never leak, are BPA-free, and are very robust as well. Love the colours and patterns, too.
2. Travel Wear
It goes without saying that we have a favourite travel outfit, which just so happens to be Sunshine Follows You 😊 But one thing I have learnt is that it's essential for children to be super comfortable on the travel day. Clothes that they can run around the airport in and also feel cosy and nap in are a must. Make sure they never wear new shoes to the airport as well. The last thing you want is children with sore feet.
We love our Ant Buddies T-shirt and Sammy the Smiley Snail Joggers for travel days; they are so soft and comfortable, and if you get stuck in that security queue, you can always count the Sammy Snail!
3. i-SPY At the Airport book
i-SPY At the Airport book was such a incredible find! This book is full of over 140 things to find at the airport and is incredible for when you get stuck in the queue at the airport. Pocket size and you just need a pen or pencil and you are ready to go!
4. Little Munchkins Playdough
I am such a massive fan of Little Munchkins Playdough a incredible small business who I have been buying kits from for my children as well as for Birthday presents for friends children.
The mini bags and travel bags are one of my go to purchases before we go anywhere, they are perfect for travel time as well as keeping the kids busy at lunch and dinner.
5. Curious Little Monkeys
Curious Little Monkeys was a new discovery for me this year and we are huge fans! We purchase the Holiday Activity Pack to take away with us. The kids used them every day and they are full of activities and games. These books had everything from colouring it through to cross words, journal pages, and amazing ways to record holiday memories.
6. Mermaid Snap
With a 6 year old and 4 year its hard to find family games we can all play together without the 4 year old becoming frustrated but Mermaid snap was a hit! Loved that the coating of the cards kept them in good condition when the kids played with them coming out of the swimming pool too.
7. Phonics Flashcards
This year we had to prep for year one phonics screening test so I though it would be a great idea to take some phonic work away with us. The CGP Phonics Screening Check Flashcards were perfect, super light and I could through them in my bag. The youngest was able to join in too laughing at the aliens on the alien word cards.
8. Sticker Stamper Game
Melissa & Doug have always been a hit with my kids and when we found the sticker stamp game it was a big hit! Come in so many different themes from unicorn to dinosaur. the book is full of activities such as counting and mazes and you use the sticker stamper to complete the activities, Its great fun, super portable and no mess.
Hope this little blog helps you bring some great activities with you on your family holiday.
Natasha x