Article made in collaboration with http://www.cruisedeals.co.uk/cruise-holidays/mediterranean-cruises .
I know what it’s like – you’ve booked a family holiday somewhere new and even though you’re excited, it’s easy to feel apprehensive too. Cruises are no exception to this rule. In fact, sometimes they’re more daunting because it’s a holiday in a confined space (no trips outside the resort – argh!) and, as a parent, all you can think of is how you’re going to keep the kids entertained. I’m here to tell you that there are plenty of things to do on a cruise! Make sure you do your research though – check out the different cruise liners available on Cruise Deals to see what’s on offer for you and your kids, at a great price.
Kids Clubs
Like you get in your typical family-friendly resort, Kids Clubs are available on most cruises too and are an awesome way of letting your kids get involved in some fun activities, blow off some steam and make friends. They also give parents a little time to get some peace and quiet!
Swimming Time
Nowadays, most cruise liners have their own fabulous pool which is ideal for the little ones to splash around in! Just make sure that you supervise your kids at all times when in the pool.
Let Them Join In With You
Sometimes kids just want to be with their parents. If you’re taking a class or getting involved in an activity on your cruise, maybe ask if your child can join too. Being involved in a grown-up’s activity helps kids to feel included and feel more mature. They get to see the holiday from your perspective and try out a new skill, which is great!
Cinemas, Theatre Trips and After-Dinner Shows
You won’t believe the entertainment they have on cruises these days – and many of them are perfect for the whole family. Make sure that you get a program and the show times when you first get on the cruise to avoid missing anything.
A Little Quiet Time
Sometimes, holidays are a little overwhelming for your children. There’s a lot going on that will leave them needing some down-time! Take them to a quiet place indoors to read a book, do some simple crafts, or write a holiday diary. Not only will this leave them relaxed, it will also help to stimulate their minds.
Taking your kids on a cruise doesn’t need to be a daunting experience – in fact, it can be an experience that is enjoyed by all the family! The best tip I can give is to make sure that your kids’ activities are varied and stimulating. That way, your kids will be happy and so will mom and dad!
These are all such wonderful ideas and tips, will keep these in mind when I plan on going on
a trip with my grandchildren 🙂 thanks
@tisonlyme143
We are now starting to travel with our grandkids. You pointed out so good tips. I especially like the “Let Them Join In With You” tip. That is the one main reason we want to bring them places. Our grandparents hardly did anything with us. We always said that if we were ever blessed with grandkids that we would be hands-on grandparents. They usually are a lot of FUN!!
We are doing a spring break cruise with the kids on a smaller ship without the climbing walls, waterslides, etc. So I’m a little concerned about keeping my two occupied on sea days. Thanks for some reminders including the “quiet time.”
Good tips. Sometimes you forget that kids like to do grown-up things too just to do them with you.
We so want to go on a cruise but I thought Disney was the only one to offer things for the kids and they are so expensive. I am now going to check out all the others to see about the clubs because this would be nice to know they have things for the kids to do!
When I was a kid, just give me some markers/crayons and paper and I was set up for any amount of time, lol. But that is for the more natural artistically inclined I suppose. Anyway it is better than just staring at a tablet screen although that was not even an option back then.
Traveling with kids can be very hard but also lots of fun. Depends on your attitude and how you handle things. I love your tips! Very good ideas.
Thank you so much!!! Hopefully we will be taking a cruise with our kids sometime soon!!!
These are some really great ideas. I appreciate you sharing these.