Thinking back to my own childhood summers, my favorite getaways were with my grandparents. They lived near the beach and we spent a lot of our time there. Grandpa taught me how to read a tide chart and we’d plan our days by it- clamming at low tide and swimming at high tide. I’d spend a week at a time with my grandparents, playing croquet or horseshoes in their yard, tending the garden or playing cards. Those are some of my favorite memories. That makes my number one getaway every kid should experience, a week with the grandparents. The following are 4 more:
- Family Camping Trip- Every child should experience camping! Nothing beats roasting marshmallows over the campfire by night and exploring the wilderness by day. Kids love camping- dirt, flashlights and tents- what could be better?
- Road Trip- Childhood isn’t complete without at least one road trip- kids in the back seat asking “Are we there yet?” and getting in trouble for putting gum in their siblings hair or kicking the back of dad’s seat. Of course, there are the family singing competitions and Road Bingo that add to those lasting memories.
- Travel by Plane- The kids will always remember their first time traveling by plane. It’s such an exciting thing for them that they really can’t fathom until they experience it themselves. I was 12 before I flew the first time and it’s a memory I’ll never forget. Whether it’s a trip to a family reunion or to Hawaii, it’s an experience all kids should get to have if it’s possible.
- A Trip out of the Country- For me, it wasn’t a long trip. Only a couple of hours from the Canadian border, the thrill was still there. Crossing over the border and into a new world is a cool thing. It’s a lot harder these days to travel out of the country but if you are able to, this is also an experience a child will never forget. Mexico and Canada are the closest choices but something more exotic or foreign would be awesome. Personally, I’d love to travel to Greece but with three kids, I’m not sure we’ll be making it there anytime soon!
What are your ideas for summer getaways every child should experience? I’d love to hear some unique ideas. All of mine with the exception of the grandparent getaway involve me being present. I just can’t imagine sending my kids off to summer camp or anywhere else without me! Leave a comment letting us know what you think!
I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.