Creating Family Memories through Weekend Travel

Creating Family Memories through Weekend Travel

Now that the school year has begun your family may be missing out on some of the bonding over adventures you shared over the summer. All kids but particularly ones with any type of special needs require structure. While you don’t want to disrupt the routine of your child’s education, family vacations need not be a thing of the past. Many communities hold festivals, bazaars, farmers markets that your family can visit and enjoy, not to mention museums and state parks.

Visiting local greatly reduces travel time and expenses and won’t call for canceling other activities. Look for events open on weekends to maximize the trip and to minimize any school interruptions. A good place to look for events is your local library; they often advertise craft shows, museum tours and similar events. With autumn and Halloween approaching there should be plenty of fall themed events going on, such as bonfires or pumpkin carving.

Autumn is also a perfect time for exploring local state parks or even town and city parks. You can enjoy the fall colors and even have a nature scavenger hunt, though in state parks you should remember not to remove anything, so plan a visual hunt or a game of I Spy. City parks often hold seasonal events as well.

Also, your family can enjoy simply walking through town. Of course this activity varies on where you live but you may discover a playground, a book store, or museum you never knew existed. Of course this is also a good way to find out about events: cafes and other local business often have a community events board.

Many communities also have begun Christmas celebrations in November so you can attend before the busy month of December. Local churches, libraries, and schools often host caroling, concerts and plays, many as free gifts to the community.

Every family despite the season should have the joy of creating family memories through travel.  Remember local travel is still travel and sometimes yields the best hidden adventures. Living in an area, people tend to forget places of historical and cultural interest but when you take a weekend to explore you will find all sorts of hidden gems. For more helpful advice on traveling with special needs family members feel free to contact us.