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#4 Let kids share in planning. Set aside some days, blocks of time, evenings as you write out your itinerary and tell kids that they decide what whole crew does at those times. This gets them involved and excited about things that THEY look forward to.
#5 Go heavy on local entertainment. Kids love music, movies, sports events. Plan these kid-friendly events with your kids input, and you're sure to have a blast. They'll remember joust, or football (a.k.a. Soccer) match. Go Beckham!
#6 Leave some time for relaxation. Stay at a hotel with a swimming pool, a tennis court or other game centers. Don't begrudge them that important video arcade time.
#7 Plan to meet local kids. Studies all show that kids love meeting other kids. If you have friends or people you can connect with in your destination who have kids, plan a visit. You can also connect by searching internet for kids' interative sites.
#8 Put your kids in charge of photography department, or at least their own photography department. Provide each with a good camera. You don’t have to bring a computer; there are plenty of internet cafes and some hotels have web access. If they are anxious to share photos with their friends back home and keep in touch, this is a good way to do it.
#9 This may be only don’t in list, but I feel strongly about it: Don’t insist they keep a journal or diary. This is a chore. Unless they themselves come up with idea, mum’s word.
#10 Have fun: this means you too. Taking your kids on a trip will provide experiences and closeness with them that will last until their own kids are ready to be launched. Nowadays, even grandparents are traveling with their grandchildren.
Happy travels to you and your whole family!
Ruth Lutnick is the CEO and founder of Four Corners Books, which publishes children's travel adventure books . She is an accomplished children's author and educator. Visit Four Corners on the web, at http://www.fourcornersbooks.com .