It’s that time of year when grandparents embark on travel adventures with the grandkids. Here are five ideas to consider if you’re planning a “skipgen” (leaving the parents home alone) getaway with the younger generation:
1. Where to go?
It makes sense to include the kids in choosing a destination. But remember they don’t know what they don’t know. Begin by discussing big picture options. City or country? Beach or mountain? Neighboring states or beyond our borders? Would the kids like to see the Santa Monica Pier or to send selfies with the Liberty Bell as backdrop? Or is a sandy beach at a swanky resort more up their alley? Depending on the number and the ages of the grandkids who will be in tow, be sure the adventure is one you can handle without additional adult support. Check the weather forecast shortly before departure and be sure everyone is properly prepared for what’s on the horizon.
Contact: www.VisitCalifornia.com; www.DestinationResorts.com; www.NPS.gov.
2. Get lowdown from parents.
Of course, you know your grandkids. But are you are up to speed on any food allergies and preferences, anxieties about travel, the need for a certain stuffed animal at bedtime or a teen’s recent breakup? Will the kids have their own money to spend and should it be monitored? Talk through family rules about everything from social media to wardrobe selections (Are you allowed to wear that?) so you’ll know how things operate on their home front. Walk through the final itinerary with the parents to uncover any additional insights they might have for making the trips as stellar as possible.
3. Set clear expectations.
Consider discussing the itinerary and the rules of the road in a group phone or video chat. If the children are old enough, talk about topics such as bedtime, dining decisions and safety measures so it will be clear who is in charge once the trip is underway. If you’ll be traveling with older children get three-way clarity on guidelines regarding shopping, social media, phone and computer time and options for independent outings. Upfront discussion can help avoid conversations that include “but my mom always lets me!”
