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Through Heather's Looking Glass

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Tips for a Vacation With an Only Child

April 18, 2024 | Travel

A vacation with an only child can be a unique experience, since your kiddo won’t have siblings to play with. Let’s face it parents, when you have one child, YOU become the sibling/person to play with. So how do you get some time to yourself when you travel? Here are some tips to make the most of your vacation with an only child:

vacation with an only child

  1. Encourage Social Interaction: Since your child won’t have siblings to play with, encourage them to interact with other children they meet during your trip. This could be at a playground, beach, or kids’ club at the resort. It’s a great way for them to make new friends and have some social interaction. I would start this at an early age so they build confidence in asking other kids to play as they continue to get older.
  2. Bring Along a Friend: Consider inviting a friend along on the vacation, if possible. Having a friend to play with can make the trip even more enjoyable for your child. Plus, it can provide some entertainment and companionship for them, giving you some downtime as well. Pro trip: Make sure the friend is someone you would enjoy having for several days with your family and that they get along well with your child!

     3.)Plan Activities Together: With just one child to focus on, you can tailor your activities to their interests. Involve them in the planning process and let them choose some of the activities. This way, they’ll feel more engaged and excited about the vacation with their parents/not having someone their age there.

     4.)Embrace Quality Time With Each Parent: With no siblings to share your attention, use this vacation as an opportunity to spend quality one-on-one time with your child. Have a daddy/daughter night and send mom to the spa, or let the girls go to a tea/brunch while dad relaxes at the pool for a bit.

vacation with an only child

            5.) Be Prepared for Some Solo Play: While it’s great to encourage social interaction, also be prepared for some solo playtime for your child. Talk to them about it in advance so they know the expectations. Bring along toys, books, or games that they can enjoy on their own, giving them some independent playtime while you relax. The key is to not feel bad about it! It’s ok for you kid to be “bored” for a little while!

By following these tips, you can ensure that your vacation with an only child is fun, memorable, and rewarding for both you and your child!

vacation with an only child

Related: RumFish Beach Resort

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I am Heather Montgomery, a 30 something southern girl living in Knoxville, Tennessee with my husband Bobby, 10-year-old daughter Emma Kate, and our goldendoodles Dolly and Luna. I’m just a regular girl who likes to workout, travel, hang with my family, text, and eat chips and queso. Be sure to check out my “about me” page for more info!
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