The moment you tell the kids that you’re going on a trip, their excitement could be double, if not triple than yours as a parent. So your anxiety to make sure everything’s perfect is only a quarter of theirs.
But before any getaway, everyone has to complete a very important task: that is to pack.
Letting your kids pack their own stuff doesn’t just teach them independence, it also ticks out one luggage off you. But be ready to be mind-blown with the things you could find in their suitcases. Not unless you guide them on how to do it.
Read on below to find out tricks on how moms can help their kids pack better.
Hand Your Kids the Tools to Pack
If packing can be hard work for adults, take it differently with kids. They would take on that responsibility in a heartbeat.
Make packing even more interesting for young kids by giving them the right tools. Allot one suitcase for them with everything in it so it’s easier to get their own clothes while on a trip.
A trip to Disneyland, for example, won’t be complete without a princess dress for your real-life princesses. Therefore, plastic garment bags are necessary which can be bought for as cheap as a dollar from online shops.
Meshy bags for the delicates like toiletries or even to separate dirty laundry. Shoes can also be packed in travel shoe bags to not stain the clothes.
If your kid’s suitcase is organized this way, you would not need to think about helping them choose their outfit. They could easily do it on their own.
Sit Down With Your Kids to Create a Packing List
If your kids are school-aged already, make them feel that they’re included during the planning. Let them know where you’re heading to, your planned itineraries and the like. This way, they could also conceptualize what clothes they would want to bring. It gives them a sense of responsibility.
A packing list is so handy, whether for the parents or the kids.
Let them make use of their notepads with cute designs and allow them to think of what things they would want to bring. Then, as parents, you go over the list with them. And if there are items which need to be canceled, make them understand why.
Don’t cross out any items without telling them why you’d have to do it. In this manner, they’ll surely know better on your next travel.
Choose Between Travel Backpack or Rolling Luggage
Choosing between a travel backpack or rolling luggage depends on so many factors such as your child’s age, accessibility, and of course, your child’s preference.
As for parents, on the other hand, whichever is more mobile and durable would be the best choice. This is when reading carry on luggage reviews come to light.
Pinterest, for example, posted an article about excellent travel bags for kids. They cited which brand name, where to buy, and even how much it cost. Most importantly, they noted each bag’s pros and cons.
If you have a toddler who doesn’t walk properly yet, maybe it is more efficient to bring one big carry-on backpack. You can put both your stuff and your kid’s stuff in just one bag. Both of your arms are also free in case they ask to be carried.
Kids ages 6-8 years old, on the other hand, are more independent. If you buy a nice design rolling luggage, they wouldn’t mind wheeling it as you blaze your way through from one destination to another.
Review Their Selection and Packing
Giving your kids independence doesn’t mean leaving them to do things completely on their own. Do not expect your 5-year old to be spot on with the things they packed for a trip. Make sure you do your part too, as parents.
Take time to have a look at their suitcases from time to time as they pack. The last thing you would want to find in their luggage is a faux jacket as you go on a holiday in the Caribbean.
Once everything is tucked-in inside the bag, never forget to give credit where it’s due. A finished task gives the kids a sense of accomplishment, which leads to confidence development.
Allow Kids to Make Mistakes
Striving for things to be perfect, will only leave everyone in despair and frustration. Always leave some room for improvement.
It’ll make the aura lighter and more at ease not just for the kids, but for the parents too.
If you find a wrong pair of shoes in your kids’ luggage, maybe because you didn’t notice it. Just let it be and don’t put the blame too much on anyone. Not even on you.
The same thing goes with setting up rules as you travel. It’s okay to make rules, but always expect that occasionally they also need to be broken. Mistakes should be taken as opportunities for improvement and not as discouragement.