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How to Actually Relax on Vacation When Traveling with Elementary-Aged Kids

Writer's picture: Colleen PrayneColleen Prayne

Vacations with young kids are magical—watching their eyes light up at new experiences, hearing their excitement, and making lifelong memories together. But let’s be honest: traveling with elementary-aged kids can be exhausting.


Between keeping them entertained, managing meltdowns, and constantly being "on," it often feels like moms need a vacation from the vacation. But with a little planning, you can build relaxation into your trip—even with little ones in tow.

Here’s how to make sure your vacation includes actual moments of rest, not just chaos and kid-chasing.


traveling with kids

Choose the Right Stay That Works for You when Traveling with Kids

Where you stay can make or break your relaxation time. A kid-friendly resort, hotel, or vacation rental with built-in entertainment will give you breathing room.



Look for places with:

✔️ A pool (bonus if it has a splash pad or kid-friendly shallow area)

✔️ On-site restaurants (so you don’t always have to find a place to eat)

✔️ Playgrounds, kids’ clubs, or open spaces where they can burn off energy

✔️ A suite or rental with separate sleeping areas so you can unwind after bedtime

If your accommodations are designed with kids in mind, you’ll naturally have more opportunities to relax without constant stress.


Plan Activities That Let You Take It Easy

Not every vacation activity has to be an action-packed adventure. Mix in experiences that entertain the kids but let you slow down.


Some of the best options include:

✔️ Beach or pool days where they can splash while you lounge

✔️ Boat rides or scenic train tours where they’re contained, and you can enjoy the view

✔️ Kid-friendly museums or aquariums where they’re engaged, but you’re not chasing them around

✔️ Short nature walks instead of strenuous hikes. Aim for a mix of structured fun and free play, so they’re entertained without you needing to be hands-on every second.


Make It Educational

Vacations are a great opportunity to spark curiosity and make learning fun. Choosing educational activities keeps kids engaged while giving you a moment to relax.


Some great options include:

✔️ Museums with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities

✔️ Historical landmarks where kids can learn about the past while exploring

✔️ National parks with easy walking trails and ranger-led programs

✔️ Themed destinations like space centers, science museums, or cultural festivals that make learning feel like an adventure


When kids are excited about what they’re experiencing, they’re naturally more engaged—giving you a chance to enjoy the moment without feeling like you have to entertain them constantly.


Build in Quiet Time (Yes, Even on Vacation!)

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean quiet time has to disappear. Sticking to a version of your home routinecan create built-in moments for you to recharge.


👉 If your kids still nap, take advantage of that downtime. Stay at a hotel with a balcony where you can sip coffee or read while they sleep. If you're in a rental, set them up with a cozy space for an afternoon rest.


👉 Even if they don’t nap, encourage a daily “chill time” after lunch. Give them books, coloring pages, or a quiet show so everyone can reset before the next adventure.


Use Playgrounds & Open Spaces to Your Advantage

Kids need to burn off energy, and sometimes the best way to get a breather is to let them run while you relax nearby.


If you’re exploring a new city, find a local playground or open park where they can climb, swing, and play while you sit with a coffee. If you’re at the beach, bring sand toys and let them build castles while you relax under an umbrella.


The key is finding safe spaces where they can play independently—giving you a moment to catch your breath.


Talk About the Adventure Instead of Handing Them a Screen

It’s tempting to rely on screens to keep toddlers occupied, but traveling is an amazing opportunity to spark curiosity and connection. Instead of just handing them a tablet, engage them in conversation about the journey.


🗺️ Talk to them about what they see—the airplanes, the different landscapes, the new foods.🚗 Play observation games like “I Spy” or “Find the Red Car” while on the road.🌎


Teach them about where you're going—share fun facts about the beach, the mountains, or the city you’re visiting.

Little ones love feeling included, and engaging with them in conversation makes the travel experience more meaningful—and often, less chaotic!


Make Meals Work for You

Eating out with young kids can be stressful, especially when they’re tired, picky, or just not in the mood to sit still.


Make dining easier (and more relaxing for you) by:

✔️ Booking a hotel with breakfast included so you don’t have to start the day stressed

✔️ Choosing casual, kid-friendly spots where a little noise and mess aren’t a big deal

✔️ Ordering room service or doing a picnic dinner to avoid restaurant meltdowns

✔️ Bringing snacks everywhere so you’re never dealing with a hangry meltdown mid-excursion


The less you have to stress over meals, the more you can enjoy your time together.


Accept Help (And Plan for It!)

If you’re traveling with a partner, family member, or friend, don’t be afraid to split up sometimes so you can have a real break.


💆‍♀️ Maybe one morning, your partner takes the kids to the pool while you sip coffee in peace.🛍️ Maybe Grandma watches them for an hour while you take a walk alone.👩‍👧 If you’re traveling solo, look for kid-friendly activities where they’re entertained but you can relax, like a hotel kids’ club or a guided activity where you can step back and just watch.

It’s okay to take time for yourself—it makes the trip better for everyone!


Set Realistic Expectations & Let Go of Perfection

One of the biggest stressors on vacation is feeling like you have to make everything perfect.

Here’s the truth: not everything will go as planned. There will be meltdowns, cranky moments, and unexpected hiccups. But if you let go of perfection and go with the flow, you’ll feel so much more at ease.


Instead of trying to pack the schedule with activities, leave space for spontaneity. Instead of stressing over every meal, opt for what’s easiest.


The goal isn’t to check off a million bucket-list experiences. The goal is to enjoy the trip while making it as smooth and fun as possible for everyone—including you.


Enjoy the Journey—Not Just the Destination

Traveling with elementary-aged kids is a unique stage—one filled with wonder, excitement, and, yes, occasional chaos. But with a little planning and a flexible mindset, you can make sure your vacation includes moments of true relaxation, not just stress and exhaustion.

By choosing kid-friendly accommodations, mixing in relaxing and educational activities, building in quiet time, and letting go of perfection, you’ll set yourself up for a trip that feels like a break—not just another job.

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