When families decide to bring a nanny on vacation, they’re not just getting extra help—they’re ensuring everyone has the chance to truly relax, including the adults! Whether it’s a long road trip, an international flight, or a family-friendly cruise, bringing along a trusted nanny from The Governess & Co. can make all the difference. Here’s our guide to preparing for seamless family travel with a nanny, keeping everyone’s comfort and enjoyment in mind.
1. Plan Together: The Pre-Trip Preparation
Traveling with kids (and extra luggage!) takes planning, and with a nanny coming along, it’s helpful to establish clear roles and expectations upfront. At The Governess & Co., we encourage families and nannies to collaborate on pre-trip preparations so everyone knows their responsibilities. Some questions to consider:
- Packing Essentials: Work together on a packing list, especially for children’s items. The nanny can oversee toys, activities, and snacks, ensuring all comfort items like favorite blankets or stuffed animals are packed.
- Roles & Responsibilities: Who handles which tasks? Maybe the nanny is in charge of managing children’s entertainment during transit, while parents can handle the logistics of tickets and check-ins.
- Emergency Contact Plan: Prepare a travel-specific emergency contact list. This might include local healthcare providers, family contacts, and a plan for meeting up if anyone is separated.
With this plan in place, parents can focus on enjoying the journey, knowing that The Governess & Co. nanny has everything organized for the children.
2. Mastering Entertainment for Long Journeys
Keeping kids entertained on long journeys is crucial, and this is where a skilled nanny shines. At The Governess & Co., our nannies are trained to engage children with creative activities, games, and learning opportunities, making travel time fun instead of a chore. Here are some of our top strategies:
- Road Trip Bingo or I-Spy: Classic games that work wonders! Customize the game to the child’s age and interests. For younger children, focus on spotting colors or shapes; for older kids, include words or specific landmarks.
- Travel Activity Packs: Nannies can pack “surprise” activity packs that children can open at various points in the journey. These might contain coloring books, crayons, small puzzles, or even a new book.
- Audio Books and Kid-Friendly Podcasts: Perfect for flights or long drives, these keep kids engaged without the overstimulation of screens. The Governess & Co. nannies often select educational stories or adventure tales suited to the children’s ages and interests.
- Interactive Screen Time: If screen time is part of the plan, our nannies can help choose age-appropriate and interactive apps or shows that are both entertaining and enriching.
3. Snack Solutions and Mealtime Hacks
Travel often means disrupted mealtimes, so it helps to have a snack strategy. The nannies at The Governess & Co. are pros at packing travel-friendly snacks that kids enjoy, while also keeping nutrition in mind. Here are some tips:
- Pre-Pack Healthy Snacks: Think of individually portioned snacks like fruit slices, granola bars, or cheese sticks. Avoid anything too sugary to help maintain energy without sugar crashes.
- Mini Cooler for the Road: For road trips, a small cooler with fresh snacks can keep kids fueled and hydrated. Our nannies can keep everything tidy, with easy access to napkins and wipes for quick cleanups.
- Restaurant Alternatives for Picky Eaters: Some kids are picky eaters, especially in new places. A nanny can help by bringing a few favorite food items from home or preparing a familiar snack if the options at the restaurant aren’t to their liking.
4. Create a Routine, Even on Vacation
Kids feel more comfortable when they have a familiar routine, even while traveling. The Governess & Co. nannies help families establish a “vacation routine” that provides structure without dampening the fun:
- Sleep and Wake Schedules: Adjust sleep and wake schedules gradually, especially if you’re traveling across time zones. A nanny can handle bedtime stories, comfort routines, and wake-up playtimes to keep things smooth.
- Morning and Evening Rituals: Small rituals, like brushing teeth together or reading a book before bed, give kids a sense of normalcy. Our nannies will also keep an eye on hydration and sun safety during active days outdoors.
- Quiet Time or Naps: For younger children, a nanny can schedule quiet time or naps to prevent overtired meltdowns, helping everyone recharge.
5. Tips for a Stress-Free Arrival and Settling In
Upon arrival, the nanny can be instrumental in setting up a child-friendly environment in your accommodation, ensuring a smooth transition.
- Unpacking Essentials: The nanny can help by setting up kids’ essentials right away, such as toys, sleep items, and a designated play area. A comfortable space with familiar items can ease travel fatigue for little ones.
- Explore Together: The Governess & Co. nannies can take children on a quick “tour” of the new place, helping them feel more at home. They might play a quick game of “find the bedrooms” or introduce kids to a nearby park.
- Prepare for Activities: If you’re staying at a resort or going to an amusement park, a nanny can help prepare by checking activity schedules, managing bookings, and packing day bags.
6. Create Lasting Memories, Not Extra Work
Finally, the goal of bringing along a nanny from The Governess & Co. is to ensure that everyone, including parents, has a memorable and relaxing trip. With the help of a professional nanny, parents can enjoy some downtime or explore on their own, while children remain in experienced, caring hands.
By planning ahead and leaning on the expertise of The Governess & Co. nannies, family travel becomes a truly shared experience. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most: making memories with your loved ones. Safe travels!