2025-03-31T08:01:00
(BPT) – Family vacations are a time for creating cherished memories, strengthening bonds, and escaping the everyday. But for parents, the reality of vacationing with children can sometimes feel more like a marathon than a relaxing getaway. Between managing meltdowns, navigating unfamiliar environments, and trying to carve out some “me time,” the joy of a vacation can get lost in the shuffle. This is where the often-unsung hero of a holiday away comes in: childcare. Whether you’re considering a kids’ club at a family-friendly resort or bringing the grandparents along, having some extra support can make all the difference. Here’s how to make sure you get some time to relax, recharge, and enjoy some adult time on vacation while your little ones have a blast, too!
Parenting brings a lot of joy, but it’s also a demanding job. Vacations away are a time to relax and have fun for kids and parents alike, but parenting responsibilities don’t just disappear. Finding ways to incorporate childcare into your vacation can help you enjoy much-needed relaxation and recharge. This downtime is essential for parents’ health in a stressful world. Plus, it supports you in being more present for your children throughout your vacation and when you return home.
Depending on the destination, some activities parents look forward to are not suitable for children. Whether it’s an adventurous hike, wine tasting, or a late-night show, you should be able to enjoy some solo activities without feeling guilty. Knowing that your little ones are in safe, professional hands allows you to fully embrace your time away.
And let’s not forget that vacation childcare doesn’t just benefit the grown-ups. Kids thrive in these environments too. They get the chance to meet new friends, try out fun activities, and maybe even learn something new!
When it comes to vacation childcare, there’s a wealth of options available. Embracing these opportunities can create lasting memories for everyone involved, making your vacation even more special. Let’s dive in on four ways to make your next family vacation stress-free for the whole family.
1. Kids’ Clubs at Resorts
Family-friendly resorts often feature wonderful kids’ clubs, creating a perfect space for children to enjoy themselves while parents take a little break. Think of these clubs as mini summer camps right in your destination! Kids can connect with peers from all over the globe and participate in various exciting activities.
Ask the resort beforehand what activities kids can enjoy at their kids’ club. Trained staff might lead age-appropriate adventures for older kids, such as snorkeling, ziplining, or even cooking classes to explore local cuisine. For the younger ones, there’s plenty of fun to be had with crafts, games, and storytime. Kids’ clubs allow children to discover new interests and passions beyond their day-to-day activities. Additionally, it can spark a passion for travel and introduce them to different cultures.
2. Find a Local Babysitter
There are likely many qualified childcare professionals at your destination who would be happy to hang out with your kiddos and give you some well-deserved free time. Instead of relying on word-of-mouth to find sitters in a new area, you can locate local, vetted babysitters through a childcare service like Jovie, which allows you to search by your location. It’s best to search for a local sitter well before your planned vacation to leave time for a virtual meet-up to ensure you’ll have childcare when you want it.
3. Bring Your Nanny Along for the Fun
If your family already has a nanny who feels like part of the family, consider bringing them along! This option can be a fantastic way to ensure your child has someone they trust nearby while you enjoy your time away. Just be sure to talk beforehand about things like work hours, extra overtime pay, travel logistics, and accommodations. This way, everyone knows what to expect. It’s a win-win situation: parents get peace of mind and flexibility knowing they have trusted childcare available, and kids often love the chance to explore a new destination with their favorite nanny by their side.
4. Make It A Family Affair
When traveling with extended family, consider discussing the idea of sharing childcare responsibilities during your trip. Vacations are a wonderful time for aunts, uncles, and grandparents to connect with your children, especially if they don’t see them often. These shared experiences can create lasting memories that both the kids and family members will cherish for years to come! It’s a great way to ensure everyone gets some quality time together while giving parents a little break to relax and enjoy their vacation, too.
Planning a holiday with the kids can be a lot of work, and you deserve to return from a family vacation with incredible memories and feeling refreshed. Jovie can help you find trusted babysitters across the country. Our professional babysitters are vetted and trained to handle any situation that may arise, so parents can relax and enjoy their time away, knowing their kids are in safe hands and creating their own wonderful memories.
To learn more about Jovie, visit www.jovie.com.
