A question of adaptation
“Any place can be a good choice for a family,” says Vincent Boisvert, seasoned traveller, father of two young children and co-founder with his wife, Véronique, of the site Voyage en famille. Of course, the desired travel experience and the health and political conditions of the chosen destination must be considered. For example, if you have travelled little, even without children, an all-inclusive stay may be a good option for the first time. Respecting your limits, like those of the child, is essential. If you are used to travelling spending very little time in one place, you may need to slow down. “The younger the children, the faster they tire,” recalls Vincent, adding that it is essential to provide places where children can have fun: accommodation with a large yard, a stop at the lake during the day, etc. In this perspective, a house rental can advantageously replace hotel stays. The HomeAway site also offers many possibilities.
Travelling as a family strengthens ties
“I don’t think we should wait for our children to have memories to travel,” says Vincent. We do it for ourselves first, but they always get something out of it. Moreover, children who have got into the habit of travelling demonstrate the ease of adaptation and a greater openness to the world. Not to mention that they will be able to make friends take up small challenges that will make them more resourceful. “And travel is great for family bonding! They become tighter, more solid,” concludes the globetrotter.
Travelling as a family is easy!
According to the Canadian Pediatric Society, a healthy infant can fly just one week after birth.
Some parents fear too tedious organization and imponderables that they will not manage. “When travelling, life is not so different from home,” says Vincent. It is enough to plan an uncomplicated trip and to book accommodation and, if necessary, transport if the idea of doing it on the spot worries us too much. »
Another concern of worried parents: food. How to find healthy foods for toddlers? “Wherever you are, there is always something good to give them. Variety isn’t always there, but rarely you can’t find anything safe to eat. In Guatemala, my children ate mostly chicken and vegetables, and they were doing wonderfully. Of course, hygiene can be a problem in some countries, like India or some African nations. “You have to be well informed about the destination. If you are not comfortable with the idea of going to India, for example, you do not go there! »
Finally, about health, it is essential to find out in advance about the recommended vaccines, as some must be injected several weeks before departure. “Carrying a first aid kit is essential,” adds Vincent. There is no need to put 200 products in it, just essential medicines for intestinal problems, ear infections, etc. “Other essentials according to him: a stroller, a baby carrier (those made of fabric can be transported well), a small tent for sleeping (very practical on the beach), a thermos for boiling water (to heat a bottle or food) and plastic dishes. Not to mention travel insurance that will protect you against surprise medical bills and provide assistance when you’re away from home and don’t speak the local language.
Stock up on information before you go
Government of Canada:
Passport Canada
Letter of consent
Health tips for travelling with children
Journalist and frequent traveller Isabelle Chagnon’s blog: Traveling with children
A blog for Parent Travelers: BB Jetlag
Travelling with children, collective, Ulysses, 2005, $24.95
