Holiday isn’t just relaxation. It’s also getting away from the stressful daily routine to enjoy valuable experiences, suitable for big and small. But especially on holiday trips there are many things that should be considered. Because even the journey to the destination with the whole family can quickly become an endurance test: The pressure equalisation at start and landing is painful for 25% of children. Especially babies and small children must make do by crying and screaming. The pressure equalisation can be actively supported by yawning, chewing, or swallowing. Food and drinks can be helpful in this regard.
Child-friendly offers
The range of possible destinations and activities is almost unlimited. Travel agencies offer holiday opportunities tailored for any age group: Toddler-friendly housing in which sleeping possibilities as well as the food are tailored to familiar standards. There are also many options for the “big ones” which takes a great burden off the parents and children. However, the travel destination can be chosen for very different reasons. For example, a holiday at the sea or in the mountains can be ideal for children with allergies as it gives their taxed airways a chance to recuperate.
Even if you “just” go on holiday to a destination that’s close-by, you should never forget to pack a travel first-aid kit for emergencies.
Cautious amusement
A long journey to the destination, unfamiliar food, and many new impressions at the holiday destination can easily disturb a child’s digestion. Oftentimes, gas is “trapped” in the gut or going number two just doesn’t want to work normally. Lots of fluids and exercise, e.g. in the water or at the beach, can help to solve small problems. What can also help is a tender belly massage from mum or dad (clockwise). Additionally, the plant world may be able to lend a hand: The papaya has pro-digestive properties which gently resolve flatulence and constipation. You can find a pure papaya concentrate, packed in travel-friendly portions, at the pharmacy. It’s also ideal for children. Make sure your child has bowel movements at least 3 times a week.
Toilet instead of beach
Montezuma’s revenge is probably the worst scenario for a holiday: Besides diarrhoea, these children are often plagued with tummy ache and fever. Even if you just go on holiday to a destination that’s close-by, you should never forget to pack a travel first-aid kit for emergencies and keep important hygiene rules in mind: Tap water is a no-go (even for brushing your teeth) because this water is often decontaminated with chlorine or is full of germs. For this reason, you should also avoid ice cubes or washed raw fruit and vegetables. It’s safest to only drink bottled water and even use this water to clean your vegetables. It’s also important when eating fish or meat to always make sure its cooked thoroughly. Furthermore, experts advise to prepare the gut for the trip with special probiotics – these are already suitable for children and can effectively prevent traveller’s diarrhoea – as was proven scientifically.
