I often hear parents explain why they avoid family trips, citing their children’s young age as the reason. This logic baffles me. Why would anyone base their travel plans solely on a child’s ability to recall the experience? Sure, infants and toddlers won’t have lasting memories of a vacation, but you will. You’ll recall the joy on their faces as they explore vibrant gift shops or the way they danced to familiar tunes while waving at passing floats during bustling parades.
These are the stories you’ll cherish and share as your child grows up and embarks on new adventures of their own. The tales of these experiences become woven into the fabric of your family narrative. So, why not start making those memories as early as possible? Does the notion that they “won’t remember” really justify missing out on life’s joyful moments?
When I was young, my parents took me to Guatemala. Although I don’t remember every detail, returning as an adult felt comforting. I wasn’t discovering a new place; rather, I was enjoying time with family. The memories, however vague, provided me with a sense of belonging. I often reflect on the photos from those trips, especially ones taken with my grandfather, who passed away when I was older. I may not recall standing in front of a volcano with him, but I know I was there, surrounded by family, and I felt happy.
One of my last outings with my grandmother was to Disney and SeaWorld. I don’t remember that trip, yet the stories and photographs I have serve as reminders of her love for us. She left us unexpectedly, and though I didn’t grow up with her, I hold on to the knowledge that we shared precious moments together. Now as a parent, I feel compelled to create similar experiences for my child.
Last year, we took our 2-year-old son to Disney along with his great-grandmother, uncle, aunts, and cousins. He rode rides that his Nana once enjoyed with his father at the same age. While he may not recall the fun a year later, the warmth of that experience remains imprinted on my heart. Tragically, his great-grandmother has since been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and this trip unintentionally became a cherished memory just before her decline.
Reflecting on this, I feel incredibly fortunate that we shared that moment before significant changes affected our family. What if we had chosen to stay home because he was too young to remember? It’s hard not to feel emotional about the serendipitous timing of our adventure.
Many families may not have the resources to travel far or visit expensive attractions. I understand this reality, but I’m speaking beyond those limits. Even if your child is too young to remember, these fleeting moments still shape who they will become. The experiences we share as parents are just as impactful, as we too are still discovering our own truths.
So, why postpone creating unforgettable memories with your little ones? After all, these early experiences are significant and will contribute to your family’s story.
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In summary, don’t let your child’s age deter you from traveling. Those moments, while they may not remember, will be woven into the stories you cherish and pass down through generations.