Travel Accessories for Kids

Even in the best of conditions, traveling can be tough. Traveling with tired and cranky children can lead to even more stress. However, whether by car, plain, bus or train, learning to travel with a few kid-friendly essentials can help to make the ride a bit smoother for all.

Travel Pillows

Traveling can be exhausting for anyone, kids included. Packing along their own pillow can make it much easier for tired children to take a nap while on the road. Because they are available in a range of sizes, designs and colors, it is easy to find one that is gender neutral and just the right size.

 

Travel Blankets

Having their own blanket while traveling can help kids to feel more secure in less than familiar surroundings. This can calm cranky toddlers and allow for easier napping while traveling. Bring their own blanket from home or purchase a special travel blanket for special occasions, like a trip to grandma’s.

Kids Travel Bags

Packing a special bag just for your child will make them feel special and help get them excited about the trip ahead. Be sure to pack their favorite toys and snacks to prevent them from getting hungry and bored on long car rides. For planes, be sure that you pack foods that are travel friendly and will pass inspection, such as crackers and cookies.

 

Kid Designed Identification Badges

Every parent’s fear is to lose their child in a crowded place. Allowing your child to decorate his or her own identification badges can be a creative way to help your child feel safe as well as help to make sure that they understand the importance of not talking to strangers and staying with the group. These can be made from simple index cards and then pinned onto a child’s clothing.

Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands is the perfect destination for kids to have moments of great fun. The outdoor theme park is the largest family attraction, offering recreational activities and amusement rides in a coo environment high up the mountain slopes. Parents and kids can explore over 50 types of fun rides. The rides include ferris wheel, trains, cars and ships that tumble through the air, swings etc. Boating, archery and go-karts are very interesting activities carried out there. Small concerts and performances by clowns and mascots provide a great entertainment package for kids.

At the lake, visitors can ride around on paddle boats, soaking in a view of the colourful surroundings. Several playpens around the amusement park, including a day center for kids, is where parents can leave small children to occupy themselves. Another activity for children is the Rainforest Splash Pool, an indoor heated water park that faces the Sungai Rejang Flume Ride and wave pool. There is also an indoor section of the theme park housed in the First World Plaza, which offer a smaller and much milder range of rides. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Genting Theme Park opens earlier at 8 a.m. and closes as late as 10 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. Ticket prices begins from MYR38 for an adult day pass with unlimited rides, with two-day and express lane options.

So, if you are planning to go to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), then don’t forget to take your kids to Genting Highlands for about 2-3 days. It is indeed the best destination where yor kids can create memories for a lifetime!

Family Box: Perfect Recreation Center for Kids

Family Box is something between an indoor playground and a kindergarten for children up to twelve years old, but it also accomodates their parents’ needs. It hosts different kinds of activities – from swimming, playing games to various classes ranging from music, dancing, crafting to cooking. Furthermore it has a big play frame, a reading area and a generous café area. Located at the outer corner of a park it is placed in a natural environment, which enhances the visibility of the building.

Despite the complex program another challenging part of this project was to deal with an existing structural system, column grid and also the building footprint.

Major design elements are shifting up and down floor plates and cut outs in the floor to allow views between the first and second floor.

The use of independent rooms in the shape of freestanding boxes allows the activities to run parallel and it offers the most suitable environment for each. The rooms have their own program or theme, they all differ from the outside space in terms of color and furniture.

The box locations are meant to break the rigid layout of the concrete columns, which is also camouflaged with a series of arches that give a different rhythm to the environment.

Visually, the common areas are treated with low contrast finishes in order to enhance and balance the space and equipments for the children.

The glass façade is wrapping all of the functions like a skin, following the given building perimeter. It has a printed pattern, which was developed out of simple single-line drawings made by children. They were modified into a pattern, the graphic motif is reversed: the background is white-translucent and the drawing is transparent. From far away the objects on the facade are recognizable; they indicate a building function related to children, fun and recreation.

 

 

8 Places You Must Visit with Your Kids in India

Travelling with kids can be fun but most of us face trouble while selecting a destination in India. Since the country is vast and travelling modes can become uncomfortable at times, we may have to settle for nearby or known destinations each time we plan a holiday with kids. But you know this way, we are losing out on so much that this beautiful country has to offer to us and our children. So, what is the solution? Should we stay ignorant and take our kids to monotonous destinations? No, I say! India is such a colorful land and our growing kids deserve to see the different hues of this iconic country. Here are some of the best places that you must visit with your kids in India. These destinations may inculcate broader perspective in our kids and inspire them to care of the country.

Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir

For obvious reasons Kashmir is at the top of this list because there is so much that our kids can learn from it. Unparalleled beauty can be the first thing that will catch the eyes of kids here but once you start taking them places and explaining why all these destinations are important, your kids might realize how fortunate they are to be here. Having to see the simple lifestyle of Kashmiris and their attachment towards their land despite all the tribulations can give your kids a different outlook towards life. Also, the opportunity to stay in a houseboat; ski in Gulmarg (seasonal); visit tulip gardens (seasonal) and horse riding in Aru Valley might give them an experience for which they cannot be thankful enough to you.

Places of Interest: Srinagar, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Yusmarg, Gulmarg
Things to do with Kids: Houseboat Stay, Horse Riding, Skiing, Golfing, Trekking

Puri, Odisha

No you don’t have to be a follower of a certain faith to visit a place like Puri. Yes, it is one of the prominent Char Dham sites in India but it has lot to offer in terms of rich architectural heritage. Blessed with a serene beach that is comparatively very clean and numerous ancient buildings including the majestic Jagganath Temple, this place deserves to be in the list to make your kids understand the rich history of the country.

Places of Interest: Jagganath Temple, Puri Beach, Puri Beach Market, Loknath Temple, Raghurajpur Artist Village, Chilika Lake
Things to do with Kids: Visit Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary, Taste the Maha Prasadam of Jagganath Temple, Try Seafood, Visit Konark Temple (35kms from Puri), Sunset View at Puri Beach

Aurangabad, Maharashtra

As a good parent it is our duty to give our kids the education that their school curriculum do not have and I believe the best way to do it to make them travel to different places. In a country like India where diversity plays an important role, you can impart a great deal of knowledge to your kids that can be helpful all through their lives. So, moving forward in our list, I would add Aurangabad to the list of places you should visit with kids in India. This place in Maharashtra has incredible monuments that can surely interest kids. The famous 2nd century BC Ajanta and Ellora Caves are the places that your kids would definitely be interested in. Apart from it, the Bibi Ka Maqbara, which by the way looks similar to Taj Mahal is also situated here. The bank of Kham River can also be a place to take your kids after a hectic day of sightseeing.

Places of Interest: Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Daulatabad, Pitalkhora Caves, Panch Chakki Khuldabad, Guatala Sanctuary, Dnyashewar Udyan, Sunheri Mahal, Jayakwadi Dam, Mhaismal
Things to do with Kids: Visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Camp at Sharnapur, Wildlife tour to Guatala Sanctuary, Bird Watching at Salim Ali Lake and Bird Sanctuary

Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

You must take your kids to this place in India. Spread in an area of 7,505 sq km this great stretch of white salt is a sight that your children will never forget and neither will you. Camel rides are available to this place and if in case you plan your travel during the Rann Utsav then you can enjoy the traditional and music here as well. A trip to Great Rann of Kutch is an excellent opportunity to help your kids realize the diversity in India. You may also introduce your children with the traditional art and craft by taking them to nearby Hodka and Dhordo Village. Also, a sightseeing tour to Bhuj can also enhance the charm of this very informational tour.

Places of Interest: Bhuj, Hodka Village, Dhordo Village, Kala Dungar
Things to do with Kids: Camel Ride, Introduction to local art and craft, Sightseeing at Bhuj, Taste the local cuisine especially Khamman Dhokla

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram is the holy Hindu site but what attracts the travellers to this place is its location. Situated off the coast, Rameswaram is connected with a help Pamban Bridge with mainland India. Beautiful and pious, this small island is a wonderful place to visit with kids in India. Each place in Rameswaram has a story related to Ramayana and this is what makes this place even more interesting. You can visit the temples, out of which Ramanathaswamy Temple is the most important one and you might also like to take your kids to the beach, which by the way is very clean. Guide your children to other temples present here and make them realize the worth of this surreal place.

Places of Interest: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Temple Tanks, Gandhamathana Parvatham, Dhanushkodi, Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Things to do with Kids in Rameswaram: Jeep Safari to Dhanushkodi, Visit Fishermen Village, Stop by Pamban Bridge to Enjoy the View, Climb up to Gandhamandana Parvatham, Visit Beaches Ariaman and Vallinokkam

Andaman

Andaman is a place for all! So, without a doubt it should be mentioned in this blog as well. Situated off the coast on a beautiful island, Andaman is probably one of the best places to visit with kids. The surreal landscape, decent waters ports facilities and rich flora and fauna are the highlights of this place. Also, the fact that it is a less frequented tourist destination adds delight to your holiday plan to Andaman. The kids will love you to bring them to destination with so many adventure activities as well as you get an opportunity to teach them about different kind of flora and fauna. So, it becomes a win win situation!

Places of Interest: Cellular Jail National Memorial, Ross Island, Radhanagar Beach, Little Andaman Lighthouse, Chatham Saw Mill, Lalaji Bay, Anthropoligical Museum, Corbyn’s Cove, Beach 5, Kalapathar, Samudrika Marine Museum, Viper Island, Netaji Nagar, Limestone Caves, Chiriya Tapu Biological Park, Gandhi Statue, WWII Bunker, Clock Tower, Butler Bay
Things to do with Kids in Andaman: Visit Museums, Cellular Jail Tour, Watersports

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is quite an obvious pick for this list as the place is beautiful and has many attractions that might interest kids. A drive to Rohtang Pass, which connects Manali to Lauhal and Spiti Valley and further to Leh is a thrilling experience. If the weather permits, you can enjoy snow scooter, skiing and mountain biking with your kids here. Also, in summer, paragliding can be enjoyed at Solang Valley (16kms from Manali), short trek from Manali to Vashisht can be done with kids too.

Places of Interest: Hidimba Temple, Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Rahala Waterfalls.
Things to do with Kids in Manali: Paragliding, Trek to Vashisht Temple, skiing (winter)

Amritsar, Punjab

Amritsar can be a good experience for your kids who are learning to travel like a pro. Apart from famed Golden Temple, your kids will have the opportunity to see the India-Pakistan border along with the wonderful beating retreat held in the evening and Jallianwala Bagh, where the heinous massacre took place. Besides Amritsar can be a great destination for a food tour with its scrumptious and mouth watering cuisine.

Places of Interest: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Mata Temple, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama Museum, Baba Atal Tower, Amrit Sarovar, Summer Palace (Ram Bagh)
Things to do with Kids in Amritsar: Visit Golden Temple, Visit Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Food Tour, Witness Beating Retreat

 

Travel Accessories for Kids

Even in the best of conditions, traveling can be tough. Traveling with tired and cranky children can lead to even more stress. However, whether by car, plain, bus or train, learning to travel with a few kid-friendly essentials can help to make the ride a bit smoother for all.

Travel Pillows

Traveling can be exhausting for anyone, kids included. Packing along their own pillow can make it much easier for tired children to take a nap while on the road. Because they are available in a range of sizes, designs and colors, it is easy to find one that is gender neutral and just the right size.

Travel Blankets

Having their own blanket while traveling can help kids to feel more secure in less than familiar surroundings. This can calm cranky toddlers and allow for easier napping while traveling. Bring their own blanket from home or purchase a special travel blanket for special occasions, like a trip to grandma’s.

Kids Travel Bags

Packing a special bag just for your child will make them feel special and help get them excited about the trip ahead. Be sure to pack their favorite toys and snacks to prevent them from getting hungry and bored on long car rides. For planes, be sure that you pack foods that are travel friendly and will pass inspection, such as crackers and cookies.

Kid Designed Identification Badges

Every parent’s fear is to lose their child in a crowded place. Allowing your child to decorate his or her own identification badges can be a creative way to help your child feel safe as well as help to make sure that they understand the importance of not talking to strangers and staying with the group. These can be made from simple index cards and then pinned onto a child’s clothing.

Outdoor Activities to Get Kids Out of the House This Summer

Craft With Seashells

Seashells make a great craft because they are inexpensive (or free) and the options are endless. Your tots can paint them, string them, or stack them. The only thing needed is some glue and a little creativity!

Make Designs With Body Paint

No need to head to the fair; have fun at home with body paint. Use a paint brush and glitter to draw their favorite designs.

Try a Bubble Paint Project

This time it’s OK for your child to blow bubbles in her drink! With only a few ingredients you probably already have around the house, your tot will make beautiful and dreamy bubble prints that turn into great book covers, handmade cards, or decorations for her room. Messy, yes, but that makes this project even more fun — and perfect for a sunny Summer afternoon.

Feed the Ducks

Pack up the kids, head to the park, and feed the ducks! With just a roll of bread, you and the kids are guaranteed endless entertainment, not to mention giggles. You can even make a half-day trip of it, packing a lunch and hanging by the playground.

Play Car Wash

A car wash is probably one of the few chores that can be turned into playtime. Get out the buckets, rags, and bubbles, and let them have fun with it. Reward them for their hard work with a few bucks or a trip to the candy store.

Make a Sundae Bar

Kick the kids’ sweet tooth into high gear with an ice cream sundae bar. All you need is a few flavors of ice cream and their favorite toppings, like Oreos, gummy bears, and sprinkles (of course!).

Plan a Treasure Hunt

Pull out the pirate hats and send them on a treasure hunt. Make a treasure map by staining the paper with coffee and burning the edges. Then, have a prize — gold coins — hidden at the end of the journey. Watching their excitement will be just as fun for you as it is for them.

Plan a Picnic

Pack for a picnic and head to the park; it’s time for an adventure! Between their favorite snacks and these picnic essentials, you’ll have a nice afternoon under the sun.

Ice Eggs

You can create a world of discovery for your tot with these ice eggs. The night before a warm day, simply fill a balloon with water and add in a small toy or two. Send the kids outside to examine them and see what objects they can find.