On the Go

On- the-Go! 

Whether it’s a quick trip to the shops, a train journey to the seaside or a trans-Atlantic flight to go see Granny, travelling with little ones can be stressful! That’s why it’s key to make sure your children’s backpack is filled with the right mix of gadgets, toys and educational goodies to keep kids entertained and well-behaved (hopefully) along the way! The best travel toys for kids should be lightweight, mess-free (like Playfoam for example) and can easily be packed into your child’s backpack. 

Outdoor and On-the-go play allows children to develop self-confidence, independence and self-esteem. They also become aware of limits, boundaries and challenges in their play. When Gramps was young, falling out of a tree taught him where his boundary was!!!

Travel can have numerous benefits for children. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Educational Opportunities: Travel exposes children to new languages, history, and geography. It provides them with firsthand experiences that cannot be replicated in a classroom. They learn about customs,  traditions, and different ways of life, gaining a sense of global awareness and understanding.

2. Broadening Perspectives: By encountering diverse people and places, children gain a broader perspective of the world. They become more accepting of different cultures, races, and religions. This exposure helps them develop empathy and appreciation for the differences and similarities among people.

3. Language and Communication Skills: Traveling to foreign countries or regions where a different language is spoken allows children to practice communication skills. They may learn basic phrases and engage in conversations, improving their language abilities and boosting their confidence in using languages other than their own.

4. Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Travel often presents unexpected challenges and situations that require quick thinking and problem-solving. Children learn to adapt to new environments, overcome obstacles, and make decisions independently. These experiences foster resilience, flexibility, and resourcefulness.

5. Cultural Enrichment: Visiting museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks expose children to art, architecture, music, and literature from different eras and civilizations. It enhances their cultural knowledge and appreciation for various art forms, contributing to their overall personal development.

6. Bonding and Family Connections: Traveling as a family allows for quality time and strengthens family bonds. Shared experiences and memories created during trips can foster deeper connections and communication between parents and children. It provides an opportunity for families to disconnect from daily routines and focus on each other.

7. Self-Confidence and Independence: Exploring new places and engaging in unfamiliar activities during travel can boost children's self-confidence. They learn to navigate new environments, interact with strangers, and develop a sense of independence and self-reliance.

8. Nature and Environmental Awareness: Traveling to natural landscapes and conservation areas exposes children to the beauty and importance of the environment. It cultivates a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature, encouraging them to become environmentally conscious individuals.

9. Social Skills and Friendships: Traveling often involves interacting with people from different backgrounds, which helps children develop social skills. They learn to communicate with strangers, make new friends, and navigate social situations outside their comfort zones.

10. Life-Long Learning: Traveling instils a love for exploration and curiosity in children. It encourages a thirst for knowledge and a desire to continue learning throughout their lives. Exposure to new experiences during travel can spark interests and passions that may shape their future educational and career paths.

Overall, travel provides children with a rich and multi-dimensional learning experience that promotes personal growth, cultural understanding, and a global perspective.