by Sunny
follow me on Twitter @Sunnylooksleaps
My husband and I were counting the days. We were booking spa appointments, shopping for sunscreen, and acting like the newlyweds we were 10 years ago. Celebrating our 10th anniversary is beyond exciting, especially since we booked a reservation at the unique Rockhouse Hotel in Jamaica – a trip we’ve been planning since we returned from our honeymoon. Click on the link and you will instantly want to visit – Don’t say I didn’t warn you. We packed up our daughter, too…to stay at my parents’ house. It’s kind of bittersweet. She’s traveled with us on every trip we’ve taken since she was born except for one. We love traveling with her, but this trip was for the two of us. Even though she stayed here, there was PLENTY of planning and packing that needed to be done for her. Read on for tips about packing the kids when they are enjoying a “staycation” while you are on vacation!
Make a Schedule – When I started setting out things for her suitcase, I quickly became overwhelmed when her pile of stuff was towering over mine. “How can this be?” I thought. “I am leaving the country and she is going 2 miles down the street.” But kids have stuff to do: schedules, practices, school, events. I decided to sit down and type out her schedule for the 5 days that we would be gone. It helped tremendously. On one page I could quickly go through each day and see what I needed to pack for her: Halloween costume for trick or treating, leotard for tumbling, uniform for school. Plus I had the schedule to give to Mom and Dad and one on my phone so I could follow her schedule while I’m away and think about what she’s doing. It also helped to time the daily FaceTime call.
Add Treats to Find – Little cards and notes from Mom and Dad are a fun way to stay connected while away, and something else for your little one to look forward to each day you are gone. I found a great Star Wars themed card to match her Halloween costume and other cute thinking of you cards. Also, putting a sticky note in your child’s lunch box or backpack will let them know you are thinking of them at school, too!
Plan a Special Outing or Two – MJ had 2 SkyZone gift cards that she packed with her. She was able to invite her cousin on the day they were off from school. A special treat for those two, and a break for the grandparents while the kids entertained themselves for a little while. I also purchased a Cheesecake Factory gift card (MJ’s favorite) and put it in her little purse so that she could “treat” Queen and Joe to dinner one night in appreciation for their hospitality.
What are some other ways to get the kids packed for a “staycation” with the grandparents? Tell me in the comments section!