Do you recall that one summer vacation or that one family trip as a child that was etched into your mind as one of your best memories ever? Now consider this, are your children making the same kind of memories?
Family vacations not only build life long memories, they also break your family away from the usual routine, opening your minds to new cultures, foods and experiences, and according to research they are even good for your health!
One study found that people return from vacation happier and more relaxed. No surprise there, but the study also found these same folk were more productive and had closer family relationships.
Consider this list of benefits the next time you consider whether to take a family vacation or not.
Family Fun
It’s obvious, but vacations are fun. Life at home is filled with responsibilities. For parents, there are jobs to do, clothes to wash, errands to run and responsibilities to be kept. While on vacation, life can be filled with joy and worry free. That break from regular life can be a weekend camping trip or a weeklong stay in Europe. The key is to slow down and find your family’s joy.
It’s understandable that many families who consider taking a vacation may opt out due to finances. Fortunately, Tennessee is filled with beautiful state parks that can provide all the fun of a family vacation at no or little cost.
Need a trip outside of Tennessee? There are a lot of affordable options available. While a quick Google search for “cheap family vacations” will drum up a lot of ads and results, MoneyCrashers.com has some great tips for finding affordable family trips.
Residents who are enrolled in SNAP are eligible for discounts at the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, Creative Discovery Center and the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga. Get help guiding through museum discounts!
Time to Unplug
Vacations provide the quality time and the quantity time that kids desire. Often times they feel loved and supported on vacation. Taking a vacation is a natural chance for every member of the family to unplug from all of your devices.
New Experiences
Vacations give families the opportunity to explore together. They provide the backdrop for shared memories between parents and their kids, which cultivates closer family bond. Vacations provide opportunities to teach your children about the world they live in, cultures different from their own, and the benefits of being open minded.
Happy vacationing!