Okay, we know the kids aren't always eager to pack the minivan when the words education and vacation are packaged together. The key to an educational vacation is buffering it with some type of fun activity. Washington, D.C. is an excellent destination for kids to learn about history, science and politics--a trifecta of educational fun. The Smithsonian Institute, especially the Air and Space Museum and Natural Museum of Natural History, have plenty of interactive displays and programs designed for kids. Some great non-museum activities in the D.C. area are the Nationals baseball team and Six Flags theme park. Almost every vacation destination in the world has some educational relevance. So, no matter where you next vacation as a family, buy a book, visit a museum or teach the kids yourself something educational about where you're going.
In the digital age, kids are more likely to spend the summers plastered to a computer screen or television than play outdoors. The University of Michigan Health System summarized a number of studies, finding excessive amounts of television by children can lead to poor grades, violent behavior, poor health, developmental issues, sleep problems and, overall, less time with family. The good thing about outdoor vacations is they can be inexpensive and close to home. Camping trips to state parks are cheap, and kids can experience hiking, water sports, canoening and tons of other adventurous activities. Families should also plan vacations to America's national parks. Hundreds of national parks and monuments give kids a playground like no other in the world. The three crown jewels of America's park system are the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Yellowstone--must stops for all kids.
If you're looking for a carefree family vacation, take a cruise. All the major cruise lines--Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Holland America--offer programs for kids. For example; Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean program has various activities geared toward certain age groups. The cruise line also has special accommodations suited for families. Every cruise line offers similar kid's programs. Cruises offer families plenty to do and interesting ports-of-call.
Many families don't even bother to consider an international vacation with kids; they are missing out some incredible experiences. Many international destinations are safe, accessible, inexpensive and will open your kids' eyes. Costa Rica is one of these places. Airfare to San Jose, the capital, cost about the same as traveling within the continental 48. Hotels, food, souvenirs and activities are, on the whole, cheaper than those in America. Costa Rica offers dozens of national parks, fishing, beaches, culture, volcanoes and plenty of other kid-orientated activities. Other international destinations to consider are Europe, an African safari, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand.
