Children are often creatures of habit. And this is particularly true for children who think and learn differently. They frequently enjoy following a regimen. They might not appreciate sudden or last-minute plans.
So, whether you’ve planned the trip of a lifetime or are simply going to Grandma’s for a long weekend, it is crucial to give your child the additional time and space to get ready for a journey. As a bonus, this preparation period can also help your youngster feel less stressed about the entire schedule and encourage positive excitement for a holiday. Here are seven ways you can prepare your teenager.
- Discuss the Details of Your Trip
By describing where you’re going and why, you can help your child feel less anxious. Clearly state your destination and the mode of transportation you’ll be using to get there, such as your own car or rideshare vehicles. Include information like the time you’ll leave home and what you’ll see when you get there. Describe sensory elements like sand beaches, loud amusement parks, or chilly ski slopes. Talk to your youngster about the weather forecast and any anticipated visitors, such as familiar relatives or theme park characters.
- Help them Envision the Journey
It works wonders to give them a few flyers, webpages, or images to help them picture the vacation. If your child is capable of reading, check out some instruction manuals from the library. Make a schedule of your daily activities using a calendar. Create a pictorial schedule for the trip if your child uses one at home.
Showing your youngster YouTube videos can be beneficial for new experiences like the first time on a roller coaster or a boat. This will educate them about different activities and reduce your anxiety.
- Prepare them for Emergencies
Preparing your kids for different sorts of emergencies is important before taking them on a trip. From teaching them to behave decently during traveling and throughout the trip to guiding them about possible unseen dangers – prepare them beforehand. Moreover, tell them why it is important to stay vigilant during traveling as chances of accidents are very common.
And if you’re traveling in a rideshare vehicle like Uber or Lyft and get into an accident due to the driver’s fault, tell them there are attorneys for rideshare accidents who can help you claim compensation. Educating them about these rights will not only enhance their knowledge but will also teach them how to handle such situations.
- Make a List
Kids may find it challenging to foresee their needs in an unfamiliar environment. You may obtain printable packing lists for many destinations and age ranges by searching online. Together, you and your child should create a list of things you absolutely must bring and things you should consider bringing.
Encourage your kid to take charge of packing and marking off everything on the list. You may verify that everything has been included by checking. Then, pack the list itself so you may refer to it while you’re packing again after your vacation.
- Pack Snacks
Whatever your mode of transportation, pack some snacks. Invite your child to assist you in choosing and packing up some of their favorites. Tell them that the purpose of these is to prevent anyone from becoming hungry while on the trip and that you won’t be bringing much food.
It’s crucial to pack food that you know your child will eat if they have sensory processing disorders that restrict their diet. This is especially true if you anticipate having trouble locating certain foods once you get there.
- Don’t Forget Toiletries and Medication
Bringing the same toiletries that you use at home, whether in full size or travel version, can make some kids feel more at ease. Don’t forget to bring first aid supplies, sunscreen, and bug repellent.
Carry-on liquids for flights must adhere to Transportation Security Administration requirements. Medication should always be kept in carry-on luggage. Medication doses may be missed if checked luggage is lost or delayed.
- Make them feel Comfortable
Keep an eye out for any indications of nervousness in your youngster in the days before departure. Do you have any more items to bring or information to offer that might help your youngster feel better? Keep in mind that your child will probably notice if you become anxious, so try to maintain your composure and go with the flow. They might feel anxious to share their feelings, make sure you give them a comfortable space to speak up.
The Bottom Line
Taking your teenager on a trip can be an exciting experience for them and a little bit worrisome for you. After all, they are still adolescents and aren’t mature enough to handle unforeseen circumstances, which can be a possibility during long trips. Teaching them these things can help them envision the trip beforehand and become mentally prepared for a lot of things.
