Parenting Pearls Vacation Opportunities

By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

We’re reaching that time again when I overhear many families busy finalizing their vacation plans. It’s an interesting time to go away. It’s completely logical to take some time off as the break between camp and school beginning. Alternatively, it’s at a time when the majority of kids – and many adults, too – have usually just completed a relaxing summer and a vacation seems unnecessary.

While many parents will have spent the warmer months at their usual schedules, teachers, therapists and many other professions have a more laid-back environment.

While another trip to relax may seem superfluous at this time, it’s very possible for families to make this time the most meaningful. When everyone is already in a calmer mode, families can utilize this time to focus on each oth - er and not merely on unwinding – as important as that can be. I’ve written previously on vacations, and I was hesitant to do another article on the topic. But, I still felt there was something to discuss about the unique scheduling of this break period.

I also found it ironic that I was writing about vacations again because I rarely go away; our family tends to favor day trips. I am beyond thrilled that we have exciting plans for this time period, attending the chasuna of a close cousin. She is the first of our children’s generation to get married, and we look forward to many more simchas in the future. Mazel tov to Chaya (Cincinnati, OH) and Yussi (Baltimore, MD) and our entire family. May they be zoche to build a bayis ne’eman b’Yisroel.

A Unique Opportunity

Each time period has a unique flavor to it that comes with special opportunities. The yomim tovim are unmatched in their spiritual potential and meaning. It can be challenging to balance meals and snacks around the sukkah or ensure we are in a chametz-free zone on all outings, but it’s part of what keeps the meaning of the chag on our minds.

Winter break is a quick getaway during the school year, and the kids enjoy a little time to rejuvenate before the next period of classes begins. Similarly, right after school has finished, the kids are emotionally winding down after a full year has been completed. They’ve worked very hard, especially the older students who have just completed finals or Regents exams. They look forward to the time off, and they need a few weeks to get back to themselves after such a full schedule.

It’s only now, when they’ve had camp or those summer weeks off, that they’re already feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to focus on family. It’s during these few days that many may find they’re more emotionally prepared to spend meaningful time with others.

Grabbing the Opportunity

As much as kids enjoy exotic getaways, they really want time where they feel loved by their parents. A trip to the zoo where they’re doted on is more valued than a trip to the Caribbean that dumps them with a babysitter. Planning any trip – near or far – should prioritize bonding with our precious younger travelers. Our children will notice when our focus is on our family and enjoying their company.

Take plenty of pictures and make sure you get into a few of them – smiling with your child. They’ll love looking back on them years later. Within days of returning, the little ones will most likely already be begging to see those photos on your phone. Other than pictures, leave the phone in your bag – it’s incredibly distracting from our precious priorities.