Latest news with #familytravel
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
We Asked Parents To Reveal When Kids Are At The Best Age, And Things Got Real
There are wonderful ― and not-so wonderful ― things about every stage of a child's life. But for parents, certain years are particularly enjoyable and hold a special place in their hearts. With that in mind, we reached out to parents and caregivers to ask what their absolute favorite age for kids is. Read on for their honest responses, with plenty of reminders about the joy of the entire journey. And if you're a parent and would like to share your favorite age, email us your thoughts at parents@ Your response might be included in an upcoming article. Age 4-5 Months 'Each age leads to its own set of triumphs and challenges, but my favorite so far is the sweet spot of four and five months. They're still cute little babies, but they're starting to smile and laugh and they haven't started teething yet. They're not really mobile. I found, at this stage, they were just starting to sleep better and didn't wake up as much throughout the night. I didn't have to worry about feeding solid foods yet. This was when I was finally able to get my children to follow a routine.' ―Stephanie Claytor, founder of the family travel blog Blacktrekking Age 4-7 Months 'I've loved every stage more than the last, but there's something really special about the 4-7 month stage when babies' personalities start to emerge, they start trying solid foods, they sleep better, and are generally delightful little, squishy giggle machines. Absolutely delicious!' ―Amanda DeLuca, founder and CEO of the parenting app Riley Age 2 'I wrote a poem about this, and not so ironically, it is called 'My Favourite' and how it speaks to each age bringing something so special to hold on to. The getting on your hands and knees and discovering the world from their view, the mispronounced words, them crawling into bed with you, the curious and clever questions. It almost feels impossible to pick! But if I had to choose so far, I would say 2. I know the term 'terrible twos' is thrown around freely (and look, don't get me wrong, I walk on eggshells some days too), but there is something so precious in the purest form of joy at this age. You can still carry them on your hip, the sentences begin forming, so do friendships, and opinions, a true sense of their personality. I feel like this age is where I get to discover so much again through their eyes. There are so many firsts and so many lasts in this year. It's so delightful (public tantrums aside.)' ― Jessica Urlichs, author of 'Beautiful Chaos: On Motherhood, Finding Yourself, and Overwhelming Love' Age 3 'As a mom of five kids between the ages of 4 and 10, including two sets of twins and one singleton, I've experienced a wide range of developmental stages all at once. I'm also a child care consultant and mindfulness facilitator, so I get to observe these stages both personally and professionally. My favorite age is 3. There's something magical about that stage when language is blossoming and curiosity is both hilarious and a little terrifying. Three-year-olds are unfiltered, imaginative, and constantly exploring the world with their whole bodies. They're eager to be independent but still need connection and co-regulation, which makes it such a rich age for bonding and playful learning.' ―Princess Owens, child care consultant, mindfulness facilitator and content creator Age 4 'Peak vibes. They're chatty but still think you're a superhero. They're emotionally open but not yet in their feelings. And best of all, no nappies, no SATs. Just pure personality, big questions about the moon, and accidental comedy every 12 minutes. It's like living with your favorite drunk cousin: expressive, unpredictable, but full of heart.' ―Marvyn Harrison, author, broadcaster and founder of Dope Black Dads Ages 5-8 'While there's truly something magical about every stage, my personal sweet spot is the 5-to-8-year-old range. This is the golden age of curiosity. They have enough dexterity and patience to engage in more complex projects ― from building simple robots to messy kitchen science experiments ― but they haven't lost that pure, wide-eyed wonder. You can introduce a scientific concept that makes their eyes light up, and they see you as a partner in discovery. It's the peak 'let's build it together' phase, and for a hands-on dad, there's nothing better.' ―Sergei Urban, founder of The Dad Lab Ages 8 & 10 'My oldest is 10, and my youngest is 8. I'm being very honest when I say this has been my favorite age so far. My kids can look me in the eye and say, 'I love you.' They can give me deliberately tight hugs. They can tell stories and explain their ideas to me. They're independent enough to be intentional, which also comes with intentional challenges and pushbacks that force me to look in the mirror, admit to them when I'm wrong, not have answers to every question, and not be able to run from tough conversations. It's the yin and yang of growth, and for right now, I'm OK with that.' ―La Guardia Cross, YouTube content creator Ages 10-12 'There are definitely things I have enjoyed about every age. Likewise, there are things about every age that I have found incredibly challenging. That being said, I really enjoy the age between 10 and 12. They really begin to develop a deep sense of self and become very insightful. They are incredibly wise and in touch with the world around them. They still have the innocence of childhood, but are also coming into a wisdom that is incredible to witness and engage with.' ―Jillian Amodio, mental health advocate and social worker at Waypoint Wellness Center Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and style. Related... The 1 Item Parents Will Never, Ever Travel Without 20 Kids Movies That Are Equally Enjoyable For Parents 35 Tweets About The Funny Names Kids Give Things
The Guardian
2 days ago
- The Guardian
Share a tip on a holiday with teenagers in Europe
Keeping teenagers happy on holiday can be a challenge, but choose the right spot and the memories will last a lifetime. We'd love to hear about holidays in Europe that have ticked the right boxes for parents and teens. Perhaps it was a coastal resort with lots of activities to keep the younger ones happy, or a city with fantastic museums, parks and restaurants for all the family. Tell us where you went and what made it particularly suitable for teenagers. The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website. Keep your tip to about 100 words If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it's your words we will be judging for the competition. We're sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition. The competition closes on Monday 4 August at 10am BST Have a look at our past winners and other tips Read the terms and conditions here You can send in your best tip by filling in the form below. Please note, the maximum file size is 5.7 MB. First name only if you prefer This competition is only open to UK-based readers If you're having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.
The Sun
2 days ago
- The Sun
Kids' ‘dream holidays' revealed from zoos with every animal in the world to slides from their room into the pool
KIDS have revealed what they'd really expect on a 'dream' holiday – including zoos that have every animal in the world and slides from their room straight to the pool. A poll of 600 6–12-year-olds and their parents revealed what youngsters are really dreaming of doing when they go travelling, with having ice cream for every meal also high on the list. 1 Others long for magic-themed theme parks, beaches home to every type of fish and sea creature, and visits to a museum – dedicated to their favourite fictional characters. The study also found 98 per cent of parents let their little ones have at least some input in their holiday planning. And 82 per cent claimed this makes their trips more fun. The research was commissioned by Crayola, which partnered with Jet2holidays to launch a competition asking kids to draw what their dream holiday looks like. A spokesperson said: 'We can finally see how fun it could be if you let the kids plan the whole holiday and unleash the full scope of their imaginations. 'It's also really lovely to know how much parents appreciate their little one's ideas when it comes to choosing where to go and what to do. 'If only all the magical and wonderful things kids can imagine could come true and make their trips even more unforgettable.' The study also revealed kids' imaginations in this department definitely can't be limited to the realistic – with 51 per cent wishing for a unicorn or a dragon (45 per cent) as their mode of transport on holiday. While others said a trip to meet dinosaurs (42 per cent) or knights (35 per cent) also wouldn't go amiss. But with 81 per cent wishing the world was a more magical place in general, 67 per cent claimed that going on holidays does make them feel this way, even if temporarily. It also emerged 86 per cent of children want a real say in where they go, while 88 per cent would like input into what they do on their holidays. Although 68 per cent of parents insist their child does get a say in the activities (68 per cent), excursions (48 per cent), and destination (29 per cent) when planning a trip. With 69 per cent prioritising what their children want to do on holiday more than themselves – 48 per cent of the average trip specifically catered to the whims of little ones. The research, carried out via also found six in 10 in parents said their children's creativity inspires them to be more creative themselves, and 51 percent saying the same about their imagination. While 59 percent believe everyone could benefit from seeing the world through a child's eyes. The winner of the competition will get to see their drawing come to life and £1,000 worth of vouchers towards a holiday with the UK's largest tour operator. Crayola's spokesperson added: 'We want to harness the imagination in every child and celebrate their creativity to inspire them to dream big. 'So, we encourage anyone interested to sign up to our competition and make your dream holiday ideas come to life. 'And when you pick up one of our products to help unleash your creativity, you can also get money off towards a holiday so you can continue exploring the world.'
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Yes, Planes Should Have a Family Section for Everyone's Sanity — and I'm a Mom
Crying babies, separated families, solo parents losing their minds trying to juggle lap children... Family sections are a win for everyone, especially the child-free I took my oldest son, now 15, on his first flight when he was three months old, and I haven't stopped flying with him (and now his younger brother) since. Which means I've experienced the following: Five straight hours trying to soothe a screaming baby with a fever while an entire plane stared daggers at me; Being projectile vomited on (like top-to-bottom soaked) mid-flight by a lap toddler; And even reluctantly changing a diaper on the seat next to me when there was no option in the bathroom. (I know, I know. Sorry!) In short, I know all too well the horrors of flying with little kids. It sucks. There is not one good thing about it. But families live far apart, grandparents must be visited, vacations are allowed. So how do you get through air travel with your family without going totally insane? I have an idea. It's time for family sections on airlines. The way I envision it, the family section would be located in the back of the plane, where it would always be loaded first. This ensures fellow passengers won't be stuck behind any extra baby gear, or getting frustrated as parents unload the endless devices and snacks and stuffies they need to survive the excursion. Let the families get situated first, and no, don't be weird about it and think they are getting special treatment. The plane will still take off, and this helps everyone. For parents who think being sent to the back of the plane is rude, it's not. Because the family section is FUN. If airlines really want this concept to take off, it would behoove them to make it cool. So cool, in fact, that it inspires brand loyalty and they can eventually up-charge parents who love to sit in the family section. Maybe kids can get little activity packs, or their airplane wings, or even just a sticker that says "I'm flying [insert your favorite airline here]!" If the airlines want to make a few extra bucks, as they usually do, they can sell stuffy airplanes or other things off of the kids snack and toy menu. Moms and dads will buy anything if they think it will keep their kid behaved. The reason I feel strongly about this idea is that it truly helps to be around other parents and kids when you're flying, especially for those flying solo. Flying alone with a baby when you need to use the bathroom is the worst, but your neighbor would most likely be happy to hold your child when they can commiserate. It could even foster camaraderie between kids, since no one can entertain a kid like another kid. Babies enjoy staring at other babies. Think of it as a giant plane playdate! Now if you think I'm only caring about the poor parents here — and yes, I know many of them don't do enough to keep their kids calm or quiet and make horrible noises and messes — let it be known that there would be RULES. Any kid watching a screen must do so with headphones on. Families can't hog the toilets. And if an egregious mess were to be left behind, those responsible would face an extra cleaning fee. Now, for the benefit of everyone else flying without kids. You get peace of mind knowing that you won't be sitting next to a crying baby, or in front of a toddler that pulls your hair and kicks your seat. And if anyone tries to ask you to switch seats so their family can sit together? Hell no. Go to the family section, Jack. Is my solution perfect? Of course not — if there's a wailing kid on a plane, you're still going to hear it ten rows up. But I do think that if everyone knows what they're in for in advance, it will make flying much more pleasant for everyone. So think about it, airlines: Time to consider implementing my plan, which I am calling BIB. (Babies in Back.) Read the original article on People
Travel Weekly
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Travel Weekly
Five-star treatment at family-friendly Martinhal Lisbon Oriente
Let's say you're working with clients who want to experience Lisbon with minimal crowds; desire a relatively traffic-free ride to and from the airport; aren't up for climbing the city's famously steep, hilly streets; and, oh yes, they want to bring the kids. Mission impossible? The Martinhal Lisbon Oriente, a five-star, luxury property in the city's Park of Nations neighborhood, would like to propose a solution. The Plastic Dragonfly sculpture by Portuguese street artist Bordalo II greets guests at the hotel's entrance. Photo Credit: Felicity Long Something new The 82-room hotel, which opened in 2023, is a riverside resort overlooking the Tagus in a neighborhood that swaps tiny, crowded streets and historical architecture with a modern aesthetic, dramatic buildings by some of Portugal's most famous architects, acres of wide, flat streets and a river promenade perfect for runners, cyclists and kids in strollers. On a recent visit, exploring the riverfront promenade was one of the first things my young-adult daughter and I did on arrival, passing vibrant street art, bustling restaurants and bars and taking note of the avant-garde architecture and outdoor sculptures that define this area. That art-forward sensibility carries through to the property itself, starting outside the entrance with the massive Plastic Dragonfly sculpture created by Portuguese street artist Bordalo II as part of his Big Trash Animals series. His art also appears in the hotel's interior, along with works by abstract painter Graca Paz and illustrator Kruella D'Enfer. We were also struck by the property's indoor/outdoor aesthetic, with a lobby that opens onto a terraced garden; a heated, outdoor swimming pool with lounge chairs; and a restaurant that offered both indoor and sunroom seating. It was during our first breakfast in the sunroom that we noticed something just outside the window: A toddler was bouncing on an in-ground trampoline while his dad hovered nearby. We looked around. There were children at nearly every breakfast table, later at the pool and happily playing throughout the neighborhood. If you're picturing a noisy scene overrun by small-fry, however, that was not our experience. While the Martinhal brand puts a lot of energy into attracting families, the hotel also keeps children entertained and out from underfoot with its Raposinhos kids' club, offering activities for those ages 6 months to 8 years old, on-site babysitting and dedicated baby concierge service. The hotel keeps young guests happily occupied with its kids' club. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Martinhal Lisbon Oriente Of course, all this focus on young guests didn't mean my daughter and I didn't find plenty to keep us entertained. Since we're both spa fanatics, we booked first-rate treatments at The Spa, which incorporates products by Voya, an organic, sustainable seaweed-based skin-care brand and offers three treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Tagus. And true to the brand's commitment to families, The Spa offers age-appropriate wellness activities for kids ages 7 to 14. As to the apartment-style accommodations, ours featured two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a terrace, an open-plan living room and fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, washer/dryer and Smeg appliances. In addition to on-site residences, the accommodation categories range from studios to one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, plus there's a new two-floor, four-bedroom Corner Penthouse Suite with river views. Other amenities include an indoor pool, a gym and a coworking space for guests on bleisure stays. Of course, a big draw of the property is the Park of Nations neighborhood, and the hotel offered a tour that started with a look at the hotel exterior, designed by architect Eduardo Capinha Lopes. We also visited the famous Oriente Station, a rail station by Santiago Calatrava of glass, steel and concrete that sets the tone for the entire area. Nearby is Oceanario, one of Lisbon's top attractions, which is almost as well known for its arresting architecture by Peter Chermayeff as it is for its dizzying displays of marine animals, including sharks, sea otters, rays and corals. Also noteworthy is the Pavilion of Knowledge science museum, designed by architect Carrilho da Graca and featuring kid-friendly, hands-on activities. The Oceanario aquarium near the hotel is one of Lisbon's top tourist attractions. Photo Credit: Felicity Long Old Town access What if your clients also want to experience Old Town Lisbon? Enter the brand's sister property, the 37-apartment Martinhal Chiado in a historical neighborhood that also caters to families with a baby concierge service and a kids' club set in an arched cavern-like space, with exposed brick ceilings and toys for children as young as 6 months old. The hotel also features Bar 1855 with all-day dining, where my daughter and I sampled a glass of the local vinho tinto from the Douro wine region after touring the property and getting a firsthand look at the surprisingly large apartments for an inner-city property. The hotel is close to some of Lisbon's most famous sites, including the neo-Gothic Elevador de Santa Justa, St. George's Castle, the National Tile Museum and Lisbon Cathedral. Lisbon's Park of Nations neighborhood, where the Martinhal Lisbon Oriente is located, is filled with playful street art. Photo Credit: Felicity Long Getting around We spent a good portion of our days in Old Town, which was an easy 20-minute Uber ride from the Oriente. A word of warning to clients, however: They shouldn't ask the driver to take them all the way to St. George's Castle -- the much-lamented Old Town traffic makes that part of the trip agonizingly slow; better to pick a less-congested spot and walk up the Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo. Once there, they should be prepared to wait in line, a fate they can avoid by buying tickets ahead of time online. Guests can also transfer between the two hotels via tuk-tuk but should be prepared to hang on, as it's a bumpy ride. We flew direct to Lisbon from Newark via TAP Air, and as of May, the airline also flies direct, nonstop from Los Angeles. Other gateways include San Francisco, Boston, Miami, Washington and Chicago.
