I fondly remember my childhood family holidays. My Dad asked a grown-up-me this question recently: “Do you remember us taking you to ________?” I couldn’t remember, and I could tell my Dad was a little disappointed. Then I said, “Dad, it doesn’t matter that I can’t remember every single place we visited, what matters is you and Mum created memories of an overwhelmingly happy childhood.”
Holidays are about creating memories of an overwhelmingly happy childhood.
Holiday Bag
On our big annual family holiday, I pack a special holiday bag of goodies for each of my children. This doesn’t have to be expensive. Typically I include these things:
* Colouring/activity book
* Small toy
* Lollies
* New Book
* Green Shopping Bag
Don’t forget to take a family treat too, like a board game. The Book Chook put it this way: “I can’t resist activities that give kids opportunities for learning and socializing, wrapped up in a package of fun.”
Holiday Box
My sister Sharron, who is the most organised person I know, suggested a dedicated holiday box. The idea of the box is it’s already packed and ready to take with you on holidays. From matches to paper towel and BBQ utensils to paper plates, it’s all there.
Notes: When you come home from holidays, replenish the box so it’s ready for next time. I used a take-away container to hold the pegs.
Printable Packing Lists
Note: Consider organising The Car Box too, and you’ll be all set to enjoy the holiday.
Go and make memories.
For more free downloads visit here.
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Be A Fun Mum Link:
External Links:
Planning with Kids: Preparing for the school holidays and 10 Essential Items For The Family Car Trip
Parenting Australia: Happy Holiday Plan
Hear Mum Roar: School Holiday Fun – Slime
Childhood 101: Creating Memories: Holidays
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{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
I love the idea of the holiday bags! The only thing I might add is a gift for the whole family like a board game, pack of cards, or puzzle. I can’t resist activities that give kids opportunities for learning and socializing, wrapped up in a package of fun
Of course… How COULD have I forgotton Board Games. Thank you Book Chook. I’m adding it to the post right now!
i pack a holiday bag of goodies for my kids to…i also pack them their own food bags so there is no fighting..
i agree with th memories i remember most of the holidays/places my parents took us..
i hope my kids will remember the memories im creating with them too. x
Hi Ali… thanks for visiting. I love the idea of food bags… great idea when you have a larger family. I’m sure your children will remember the memories… sounds like you are doing a beautiful job.
We have a dedicated ‘holiday box’ for camping. It took a little time to figure out what was needed in the initial setup, but it’s so worth it to just ‘grab and go’.
As an only child, my trips to rural NSW (with no other playmates) were rather dull, so I remember them for the wrong reason! Thus I’m determined to create special, FUN holiday memories with my family!
I can see it works both ways Debbie. You are right, working out the initial set up is hard but so worth it.
BRING ON THE HOLIDAYS!!!!
OH YEAH BABY!
Excellent advice – I’ll keep this in mind as I pack for our road trip in August, thanks!
Thanks for the link Kelly. I love lists and you have some great ones here – thanks for sharing.
I love this link KELLY , I’m first mum from Colombia I have in Brisbane 4 years ,I don’t have any family here , so all this ideas are helping me so much tanks you all for sharing ,
Hi Lisbeth. What a beautiful name! I’m so glad you found your way to my page. Thanks so much for stopping and saying hello. Don’t be a stranger.
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