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Managing Jet Lag with Kids: Tips from the FUNemployed Family

Travelling with kids can be a delightful adventure, but when you throw jet lag into the mix, it can quickly become a recipe for chaos. As a family that’s embraced the joys of travel — and a somewhat unconventional lifestyle — we at the FUNemployed Family know all too well the struggles of maintaining cheerfulness after crossing multiple time zones. Here’s how we navigate the challenge of jet lag with our little ones, ensuring that our trips remain fun-filled and memorable.

Understanding Jet Lag

Jet lag occurs when your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is out of sync with the local time at your destination. Common symptoms include fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating — and this can be magnified in children. Young travellers often struggle to articulate how they feel, which makes managing their discomfort a bit more challenging. Acknowledging that jet lag is a natural part of international travel can help temper our expectations and prepare us for a bit of turbulence along the way.

Pre-Departure Preparations

1. Adjust Sleep Schedules Before Travel

A few days prior to your departure, try adjusting your children’s sleep schedule gradually. If you’re heading east, have them go to bed a little earlier each night; if travelling west, keep them up later. This slight alteration can help ease the transition once you arrive at your destination.

2. Plan Flight Times Wisely

If possible, book flights that align with your children’s regular sleep patterns. Evening flights can be particularly useful, as kids are more likely to sleep through a good portion of the journey, waking up refreshed upon arrival.

Navigating Travel Day

3. Bring Comfort Items

Familiarity can be incredibly comforting for children in unfamiliar situations. Pack their favourite blanket, stuffed animal, or even a pillow to make them feel secure during the journey. The comfort of familiar items can go a long way in alleviating anxiety and promoting restful sleep on the plane.

4. Keep Them Hydrated and Fed

Children are often more susceptible to fatigue if they are dehydrated or hungry. Bring along plenty of water and healthy snacks to keep energy levels up. Avoid sugary treats that can lead to sugar crashes; instead, opt for nuts, fruits, or whole-grain snacks that sustain energy levels over time.

Settling In After Arrival

5. Embrace the Local Schedule

Once you’ve landed, do your best to adapt to the local time as quickly as possible. This means avoiding naps if you arrive during the day, even if your little ones are cranky. Instead, keep them engaged with activities that excite them about the new surroundings, whether it’s a visit to a nearby park or exploring local attractions.

6. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment

Make the sleeping environment as inviting as possible. Dim the lights in your accommodation, use blackout curtains if available, and keep noise levels low. If your children are used to white noise at home, consider bringing a portable white noise machine or an app on your phone to help them settle in.

Fun Activities to Combat Fatigue

7. Plan Engaging Daytime Activities

Instead of focusing on fatigue, fill your first few days with engaging activities that can help distract your children from their tiredness. Consider simple outings like going to the beach, hiking, or visiting a local zoo. These activities not only entertain but also keep the family active and promote better sleep at night.

8. Be Flexible and Patient

Remember, patience is vital. Children may take longer to adjust to a new time zone, so be prepared for some grumpy moments. Embrace flexibility in your schedule, allowing for downtime and rest as needed without the pressure of sticking rigidly to an itinerary.

Reestablishing Routine

9. Stick to a Sleep Schedule

After the initial transition, aim to maintain a consistent sleep schedule for your children. A regular bedtime, even while travelling, helps regulate their internal clocks and encourages a smoother adjustment.

10. Maintain Healthy Habits

Encourage outdoor play and limit screen time, especially close to bedtime. Exposure to natural light during the day can help reset your child’s internal clock and promote better sleep at night.

Conclusion

Managing jet lag while travelling with kids isn’t always straightforward, but with a little bit of preparation and an open mindset, it can be navigated successfully. By anticipating the challenges and embracing a fun, flexible approach, the FUNemployed Family has turned what could be a stressful situation into an opportunity for adventure and bonding. So, pack your bags, take a deep breath, and embark on your next adventure — the world awaits!

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