Traveling with children during the holiday season can be an adventure filled with memories, but it can also present challenges—especially when venturing to unfamiliar places. As an occupational therapist, I work with families creating strategies that help children feel safe, engaged, and comfortable in new environments. Here are my top tips for a smoother holiday travel experience.
1. Prepare Ahead of Time
Identify where you anticipate problems arising based on past travel experiences to strategize and combat potential difficulties. Talk to your Occupational Therapist if you need guidance!
Set expectations
Children thrive on predictability. Before your trip, explain what to expect during the journey and at your destination. Use visuals like pictures, maps, or even short videos to show what the new place looks like. You can organize a checklist of locations you will pass on your drive to avoid the question “are we there yet?!”
Practice transitions
For younger children or those who struggle with transitions, practice activities like packing a small bag, waiting in line, or sitting quietly in a car or plane seat. These exercises can help them feel more prepared.
Pack familiar items
Bring comfort items such as a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or a small pillow. These items serve as anchors of familiarity and can help children self-soothe in unfamiliar surroundings. You can also purchase a weighted stuffed animal to provide comfort and calmness.
2. Sensory-Friendly Strategies
Unfamiliar places can overwhelm a child’s senses. Understand and plan for their sensory needs to minimize potential meltdowns.
Noise management
Airports, train stations, or crowded destinations can be loud. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can help calm both the physical and metaphorical noise for children sensitive to sound and overstimulation.
Movement breaks
Long periods of sitting can be tough for kids. Build in time for movement—let them walk, jump, or stretch during layovers or rest stops. Try an animal walk game, or freeze dance to spark inspiration and focus.
Snack planning
Pack a variety of familiar snacks to keep their energy levels stable. The familiarity of food can provide comfort when other aspects of the trip feel out of control. Food options for kids can often be minimal or expensive when traveling. Providing options that you know your child will enjoy can help alleviate both your stress and theirs. Having this snack container, due to its novelty and variety of items, can keep your child entertained while also helping their hunger! Crunchy and chewy foods help calm the oral senses.
Try these great options for easy travel food storage!
3. Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible
Travel often disrupts routines, but maintaining key elements of your child’s daily schedule—like meal times, naps, or bedtime rituals—can help them feel secure. If possible, bring along items that mimic home, like a portable white noise machine for bedtime.
Need help establishing a routine? Sign up for our O.T. Holiday Advent Calendar, designed to help you and your child maintain a sense of normalcy when the chaos of the holidays strikes. Each morning, you’ll receive one new O.T.-inspired activity in your inbox.
4. Engage and Entertain
Interactive activities
Keep little hands busy with travel-friendly toys, coloring books, or sensory kits. For older kids, puzzles, audiobooks, or podcasts can be engaging options. Need help choosing good options? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide that’s loaded with fresh toy ideas!
Let them help
Giving kids a role, like carrying their own small backpack or helping to count bags, makes them feel involved and gives them a sense of control over the trip.
5. Be Flexible and Patient
Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Stay flexible, and remember that hiccups are part of the journey. Use these moments as opportunities to model problem-solving and resilience for your child.
6. Acclimate to the Destination
Once you arrive, help your child explore the new environment at their own pace. Point out similarities between the new place and home to help them feel more comfortable.
If possible, designate a quiet space where they can decompress if needed.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids, especially to new and unfamiliar places, can be a test of patience—but it’s also an opportunity for growth and connection. By preparing ahead, staying flexible, and considering your child’s unique needs, you can make the journey enjoyable for everyone.
Remember: the goal is progress, not perfection. Happy travels!
As an occupational therapist, I aim to empower families with practical strategies for everyday life. If you have specific concerns about traveling with your child, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized guidance.
