Family vacation: When traveling with small children becomes a nightmare!

Family vacation: When traveling with small children becomes a nightmare!

For many parents, family vacations are a joyful but also challenging undertaking. On her Instagram account @anna.everywhere, travel blogger Anna Karsten provides information about her experiences from 43 countries that she has traveled to with her two children. She evaluates the fun factor of traveling with children of different age groups. For babies from 0 to 6 months it gives 9 out of 10 points, while the fun factor for toddlers from 12 to 18 months is perceived as significantly lower with only 2 points. From the age of 5, however, traveling receives the maximum score of 10 points. This feedback is largely received and shared positively by other mothers in the comments on Instagram.

The developmental psychologist Anne Henning states that conflicts are common on vacation with small children, especially when they enter the self-assertion phase. During such periods, it can be difficult for parents to respond to their children's needs as well as their own. Differences in vacation types, such as between short trips and long-haul flights, can also have a significant impact on the fun factor. According to Henning, the comments under Karsten's posts show that parents' experiences when traveling with small babies vary greatly.

Insights into the psychological aspects of traveling

However, traveling with children not only offers challenges, but also valuable experiences. This topic is examined in a joint article by bloggers Tina and Barbara. The question of whether children remember travel is raised, noting that travel creates more than just memories. It promotes children's self-confidence as they become accustomed to new circumstances and are able to form social bonds.

Psychologists such as Barbara Horvatits-Ebner provide scientific support and explain the effects of travel on child development. Children learn through new impressions and experience social interactions that promote their understanding of closeness and friendship. Traveling exposes children to diverse cultural differences, allowing them to develop a better understanding of the world and its diversity.

The importance of rituals

An often overlooked aspect of traveling is the rituals and routines that can be disrupted by new environments. These rituals give children security, especially in foreign cultures. Children's magical thinking can cause them to panic when certain actions are not performed, which is considered normal behavior. By mastering new challenges, children often gain a sense of self-efficacy and self-confidence, which supports their inner development.

In summary, traveling with children represents both a challenge and a valuable opportunity for development. By making the right preparations and taking into account the special needs of little travelers, the family vacation can be an unforgettable experience.