Spending time with your family can be a challenge even under the best of circumstances. When each person knows how to push the others’ buttons, it is important to have some ideas to keep everyone in a cooperative and friendly mood. Unexpected travel delays, weather problems and illness can also impact a family holiday. These tips will help you to make your next family holiday go as smoothly as possible.
Space for Everyone
While the purpose of your family holiday may be togetherness, make sure there is enough space for each person to have some privacy. Even a quiet corner in which to read a book can help everyone to take a break from each other. When flying or traveling by car, make sure that each person has his or her own seat. Personal space helps each person to feel more safe and secure.
Stick With a Schedule
Even though it is a holiday, it is still important to stick with schedules and routines. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day. Eating meals at your usual times also helps to avoid issues such as jet lag and nausea. According to the National Sleep Foundation, toddlers need 11 to 14 hours of sleep, preschool aged children need 10 to 13 hours of sleep, school age children require 9 to 11 hours, teenagers need 8 to 10 hours, young adults need 7 to 9 hours and adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per day. Too much or not enough sleep can cause a sour mood, sluggishness, fatigue and digestive issues.
London Vacation Rentals
If you usually go to the same place every holiday, consider switching it up and visiting some place new. London vacation rentals are a lovely way to experience the arts, culture and history of England’s biggest city. When renting one of many short-term apartments in London, you will have plenty of space and privacy for your entire family. You will also have all of the conveniences of home, such as a full-size kitchen, laundry and family spaces. You can find vacation rentals in London that are close to the attractions you would like to see, such as Madame Toussad’s or London Bridge.
Simplify Activities
While it might be tempting to make a long list of activities to do over your holiday, stick with a shorter list and take your time doing them. Rather than baking dozens of cookies, cooking huge meals, decorating the house for guests and visiting two or three places every day, choose one activity per day. Perhaps one day could be for baking sweets and the next day could be a family excursion to an arts museum and out for lunch. Slow down the pace so that you can simply enjoy the time with your family.
Prepare for Emergencies
Expecting the best and planning the worst is a good motto for making your next family holiday fool-proof. You can take preventive actions to avoid emergencies by making sure that your car is tuned up, having some over-the-counter medications ready for mild illnesses and checking the weather forecast in advance. Keep important contact information for your family doctor, mechanic, plumber and furnace technician on hand. Make copies of your important documents in case you lose your identification or credit card. Bring an extra battery or charger for your smartphone.
Family holidays are events that you will remember for a lifetime. By making some preparations in advance, you can avoid some of the most common issues such as arguments, tiredness and unexpected emergencies. Being prepared allows you to have the peace of mind so that you can really relax and enjoy your family time.