Expedia travel tips for families

Childare

• Consider your options; it’s important to choose the one approach that’s right for you from the many different styles and possible combinations of childcare on holiday, including: your own au pair or nanny, a nanny provided by your holiday supplier, a babysitter or baby-listener, or a crèche or children’s club provided by your hotel/resort/villa.
• Put your heads together; if you are travelling with other parents and children, find out what childcare they’ve opted for – your child might well be happier in the company of other familiar children.
• Consider your child’s nature; if your child is relatively needy or clingy, they might not be comfortable or happy in a crèche environment. This might mean you put more energy into getting your child to the crèche than you would just looking after them yourself.
• It’s the time of the season; will your child be happy to play outdoors regardless of the weather? If it’s summer and too hot, or winter and too cold, you’ll need to concentrate on the indoor childcare services provided.
• Safety in numbers; while you’re researching your various childcare options, be sure to check the number of children being looked after by each carer.
• Each to their own; see whether the range and type of both indoor and outdoor activities are appropriate for your child and her/his age.
• Plan in advance; if you opt to take your own nanny with you, it’s important that you outline your expectations prior to leaving home. Be clear about when your nanny will be expected to work, when they’ll have time off, and which activities you feel are suitable for your child.
• Keep it in the family; if you are travelling with other family members, such as your child’s grandparents, be sure you’re doing so because you like their company, and not their babysitting abilities. It’s probable that they’ll help out with childcare, but everyone will get on better if there’s no pressure or expectations – which will mean you, the grandparents and, most importantly, your child can enjoy a terrific holiday together.
• Be practical; if you decide not to use a babysitting or baby-listening service, you will be spending a lot of time with your baby/child. As a result, you’ll be far happier if your room is a reasonable size, or has a separate area in which your baby/child can sleep. If the room is cramped, when your baby/child is ready for sleep, options such as television, talking, or even just leaving the light on so you can read might be impossible.
• Trust your instincts; if the childcare you opt for leaves you less than entirely comfortable at any time, try another approach. You and your baby/child will only have a happy and relaxing holiday if you’re confident that your little travel companion is always in safe hands.