October 17, 2018 5:43:39 pm
Packing is an important skill. (Source: Getty Images)
Packing a bag is an important life skill that children can benefit from in the long run. Here are some tips that parents can follow to get their kids to help them pack for a trip, while learning the skill in the process:
1. Share itinerary details with your kid and prepare a checklist
Parents need to make their kids feel involved even while planning for the trip. To begin with, share details with your kid about when, how and which destination you will be travelling to. Tell your kids more about the destination, from its weather conditions to culture. While preparing a checklist, explain why certain items would be needed for travel.
2. Pack a few days ahead of time
Instead of rushing your child, the parent needs to be more patient with their child’s pace of packing, especially when he or she is learning the skill. It is always advisable to start packing in advance rather than missing out on a few important items while packing on the final day.
3. Help your kid pick the right clothes
Pick and choose loose and comfortable clothes for the journey while allowing your child to choose similar clothes for himself or herself.
Teach your kids packing skills. (Source: Getty Images)
4. Select a bag for your kid
Your child is likely to take more interest in the whole process when he or she has a personal bag to pack. Make sure the bag doesn’t turn out to be too big or too heavy for them to carry.
5. Teach them folding skills
While packing the bag, teach specific packing skills to kids, like folding shirts or rolling socks or putting toiletries in a pouch.
Also Read: How to manage infants on long-haul flights
6. Let them pick games and books for the trip
Parents need to ensure their kid enjoys a vacation as much as they do. Encourage your kids to pick games, books and other activities that can keep them engaged on the trip but make sure they are limited to avoid being overburdened. And all of this can be carried in the kid’s personal small bag.
7. Review the packing and praise your kid
Children can be unpredictable. Even if your child may have packed under your guidance, double-check all items and tally them with your checklist after packing. Don’t forget to congratulate your kid for following your instructions and helping you to pack.
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