NiGeL THOmPSON It’s a toddle mARJORie YUe
Travelling with toddler can result in tears and tantrums – and that’s just mum and dad! So we’ve teamed up with villa holidays provider Oliver’s Travels to offer tips for surviving a holiday with a little one. ADJUST EXPECTATIONS: Taking a child away from their everyday routine can make them anxious. Lower the bar for your expectations of your toddler – and yourself. CHOOSE CAREFULLY: Pick a trip with shorter flights at times that don’t disrupt sleeping routines. Go for as small a time zone difference as possible and pick family-friendly accommodation with shade and airconditioned bedrooms. PACK PRACTICALLY: Plan ahead. Midnight hunts for special milk or infant paracetamol are not fun. Take medication, loads of sun cream and after sun, favourite soft toys and comfort objects. FLY SMART: If funds permit, a “skip the queue” upgrade at security and lounge passes can pay dividends. Hold on to your buggy until the last moment, don’t put it in the hold at check-in. Take some new toys and books. A tablet loaded with favourite videos is a winner. Stock up on snacks, don’t rely on plane food. JETLAG AND SLEEP: Allowing a toddler to snooze in the buggy while you enjoy the evening entertainment is less fraught than using hotel babysitters. Switch to local time for meals and get as much natural light as possible in the morning. FOOD: Don’t stress about what they will or won’t eat on holiday. Toddlers are programmed to refuse new foods and that’s OK . BOUNDARIES: Should you say ‘yes’ when you normally say ‘no’? Not a good idea – toddlers need boundaries and consistency. Make sure any discipline is gentle and compassionate. TANTRUMS: Stay calm and find a quiet spot where you can sit with them, talk it over and hug; when the tantrum’s done, don’t dwell on it, just enjoy your holiday together. ■■Read full version: oliverstravels.com edenproject.com atlantissanya.com
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