Traveling with Young Children

July 17, 2021 Elsa Orlandini

With vaccine rollouts, travel has increased this summer compared to 2020 travel statistics. Many people have reported feeling more comfortable with air travel and visiting loved ones throughout the country. Many have also reported needing a break and time to disconnect after being home for so long. Vacation companies have also increased their marketing tactics in order to attract individuals and families who may be in need of a vacation. However, not everyone is feeling comfortable traveling as COVID-19 continues to be a threat. Many individuals are experiencing anxiety symptoms associated with the decrease of restrictions and have expressed concerns related to traveling with their unvaccinated children. Additionally, some are concerned about exposing at-risk family members they may visit.

Traveling with Young Children

Tips for Traveling with Young Children

Many are asking, is it possible to travel safely with my family right now? This is a personal choice that you and your family should discuss together before making any travel plans. The following are tips that can be helpful if you are wanting to take some time away with your family, but feeling anxious about making a decision:

Explore different vacation options. If you are uncomfortable with air travel at the moment, then it may be helpful to look for local vacation spots. Traveling by car may be a possibility and may be a better choice for many families. This may also provide families an opportunity to discover new places that may not be too far from home while limiting their exposure to COVID-19.

Check vaccination rates and COVID-19 rates. Many parents have felt more comfortable visiting areas with low COVID-19 rates, as this may limit exposure. Knowing the rates in your area, may also help you know how cautious to be.

If you need to fly, check airline restrictions. It can be challenging for young children to wear their masks during a prologued period of time; therefore, short and direct flights may be best for young children. Having open conversations with your children about the importance of washing their hands and keeping their masks on while traveling may also be helpful.

Bring activities that will make traveling fun for children. Distracting children with games, coloring books, movies, and books may help decrease any acting out behaviors. Keeping them busy with activities will also keep them in one area and increase their ability to socially distance from people around them.

• Limit indoor activities. Once you arrive to your destination, it is recommended to engage in outdoor activities and limit visits to crowded indoor environments. Research has shown that it is less likely for the virus to spread in outdoor settings; therefore, many parents have felt more comfortable planning outdoor activities, such as playing at the park, picnics, and beach days for their children.

It is common for parents and families to experience some anxiety about traveling with children or potentially exposing loved ones they may visit. Meeting with a psychologist can help you develop coping mechanisms to deal with anxiety, as well as develop a vacation plan that you would feel comfortable with. Licensed psychologists at Miami Psychology Group are currently accepting new patients in the Miami and Miami Beach area.