WhatsApp Us

From My Brain 'For' Yours...

Read about what the experts have to say about mental health.

The Importance of Family Vacations

kids-on-family-beach-vacation-2-1246834-1279x856

Parents often find themselves in a dilemma when it comes to taking a vacation with the family; there maybe time and financial restrains, whether to spend on a summer class rather than a getaway, for it may benefit your child more; are often questions and barriers that crop up. An important thing to keep in mind is everyday routine can be both physically and mentally exhausting; a getaway from it all is what every family needs to rejuvenate and return stress free.

Here are a few reasons why packing your bags and planning a vacation is crucial especially for your children.

  1. A sensible investment

Instead of spending money on expensive toys, gadgets which in the long run the child will outgrow, spending on a family holiday is more beneficial and valued by children. A family vacation is both exciting in the moment and something they can cherish forever in their memory. Besides this, travelling is a great way to maintain family bonds and connections as compared to gadgets and fancy toys which often creates a distance between family members.

  1. A way to relax and de-stress

Like adults, children too experience stress from everyday routine. A vacation puts daily routine aside and allows the family to enjoy doing things they would not normally do in their schedule. Thus, in a fun way kicking back stress and relaxing away from worries.

  1. Experiencing new things is good for your child’s development

A holiday whether out of the country or within your state is always a new experience to learn different things. Exploring nature or a heritage place activates many critical brain areas that are unexercised at home. This helps brain growth mainly involved in cognitive functioning, social intelligence and goal directed behaviour which lasts a life time.

  1. Giving your children the fondest memories to hold on to

Years later, the family holidays are something your children can cherish for the rest of their lives. These happy memories of the time spent together as a family can be extremely powerful in bringing relief when faced with the darker times that life can bring.

In short, vacations are healthy and you and your family will benefit from a well-earned break. Don’t let the opportunity of a family vacation slip away.

References

Lehto, X. Y., Choi, S., Lin, Y., & MacDermid, S. M. (2009). Vacation and Family functioning. Annals of Tourism Research.

Importance of family vacation retrieved from http://oceanranchpark.com/family-vacation/

Effects of holidays on children retrieved from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/family-holidays/the-science-behind-how-holidays-make-your-child-happier-and-smarter/