In a previous article we talked about the lesson children learn from their parents from travelling with them. Did you know that you can also learn quite a few surprising lessons from your children as well when you travel together? Don’t underestimate a child’s unique gift of showing adults life lessons they have forgotten.
1. Creativity. Children seem to know how to find joy in using their imagination. ”Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt During a boring 8 hour long car ride, or a three hour flight, children always know what to do to make the time fly. Whether it’s telling stories of Giants and dragons, to playing ‘I spy with my little eye,’ their unique gift of coming up with ways to forget the dullness of travelling is a blessing.
2. Have fun and relax! Children could be the authors of the word ‘chill.’ This is one of the biggest lessons we can learn from our children when travelling with them. Yes, it’s your job to be the responsible one and make sure everything runs smoothly but don’t forget to enjoy each other’s company. To smile, laugh, take it easy, and realize that it’s not the end of the world if something goes wrong. Your child understands that perfectly, learn from them.
3. Embracing culture. I mentioned in the previous article how travelling can teach children to embrace all types of people and places, but in turn children can also be the teachers to adults who have forgotten. As we get older we get more stuck in our ways, in our beliefs that anyone who disagrees with us is wrong. A child who hasn’t formed set opinions easily embraces other cultures in awe, and it’s a beautiful reminder to us to be less condescending and more accepting.
4. Ask Questions. Have you noticed that there is a certain age when a child seems to be endlessly asking numerous, never ending questions? A child will unabashedly ask the questions in a new surrounding that we, ourselves are too ashamed to ask and show our lack of knowledge or interest. Whether it comes to why the people in a new place dress the way they do? To questions about the sea, the weather, the differences between this new place and home. The answers to those questions are knowledge and understanding of a new country, or city that will show your interest in other people and places besides your own. Don’t shy off from questioning like a child.
5. To Live Life fully. Who does not want that? We spend most of our lives chasing happiness, searching for meaning and balance, affirming that we want to live our lives fully, not knowing where exactly to look for and what exactly to do in order to achieve just that. Well, this is your chance to learn how to do just that by simply observing a small and innocent child in action, and eventually helping you master this important lesson.
All in all, travelling with children doesn’t have to be a hustle, and will actually benefit both parents and children. Adults invest into their child’s life with immeasurable new experiences and culture, and children surprisingly teach their parents precious Life lessons forgotten with age. The last lesson would be, learn to enjoy the process of travelling with your kids. Believe me it’s worth it.
Why you should give your children a travel education https://potentash.com/2015/06/30/why-you-should-give-your-children-a-travel-education/
