The primary purpose of taking a holiday should be to
have real fun with your family. Holidaying gives us an opportunity
to understand our children and spouse better. It gives us
more time to introspect and decide if our priorities in life
need to be reordered.
Holidays may also enable us to explore our country and
our world. Children may also get more time to pursue their hobbies or to join certain coaching classes.
When you next decide to have a holiday, do not forget
the main reason for taking the money and time for doing so. Holidays need not necessarily be expensive affairs.
Building sand-castles – fun for the entire family
A family I know decided to go for a holiday during the offseason. The hotel rates were much
lower and the place was less crowded. They got extra attention all around.
Instead of spending money on a holiday trip during the expensive summer season, another family
decided to install an
airconditioner at home. The father took leave from work to be with the family to have a holiday at home. They played
an old video recording of a family wedding. The children were
so introduced to various relatives. The family saw some interesting cartoon films
and adventure films and played indoor games. They loved every moment of this time spent
together.
Medical Care On Holidays Spent Away From Home
If you are going to a malaria-infected area, the whole
family should start on a prophylactic drug (see Malariain
THE A-Z OF CHILDHOOD
ILLNESSES).
If you are going abroad, ask your travel agent if any
special vaccines need to be taken.
When you are away from home, avoid taking unboiled water, cold food items, salads and milk
preparations at
places that are not likely to be safe. Drink only packaged
water if you cannot get boiled water.
In general, I am against readymade commercial cereals
for small infants, but you may carry tinned cereal (to which
only water need be added) if you are going to a remote area.
You should also carry your family first aid kit with
you. (See chapter on A FIRST AID
KIT).
