I'm baack! Just spent 4 days in New York City and had a blast although it was freezing! Anything below 70 degrees is freezing to me. . .but with the weather in NYC averaging about 45 degrees I'm sure many would agree on my assessment. BRRR!
At least once a year (sometimes more) my family and I take a trip. I think traveling is the best social studies lesson you will ever receive because it not only gives you a chance to see how other people live but you develop (hopefully) a deeper understanding and respect for other cultures, races and religions. We are but one body that inhabits this planet with over 6.6 billion other people. How amazing is that?!
I think it is imperative that we expose our children to the world through travel. Children should leave their communities periodically so that they are made aware of the myriad of options that exists outside of their neighborhood. If they decide to open a store or become a doctor or lawyer in their own neighborhood- that's wonderful- but they should know they can pursue an education or occupation ANYWHERE in the world! There are seven continents, fifty states and hundred of countries and they are only limited by their lack of knowledge.
Even if you drive to the next city or state you should make a point to not only take your children on a trip (at least annually) but give them some background on the destination or show them where it's located on a map. I always try to combine fun and learning! Here are some places I recommend:
- Houston, TX (Space Center, Children's Museum, Kemah Boardwalk)
- San Diego, California (world famous San Diego zoo, Legoland, FREE beaches)
- Orlando, Florida (all things Disney, Universal Studios)
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica (Beaches Sesame Street resort)
- San Antonio, Texas (Sea World, Fiesta Texas, Riverwalk)
- Washington D.C. (White House, Jefferson & Lincoln Memorial, National Zoo, Museum of American History)
- Langhorne, PA (Sesame Place)
- Chicago, IL (Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Magnificent Mile, Wrigley Field)
- Myrtle Beach, SC (Broadway at Beach, MagiQuest, Ripley's Aqaurium)
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho (Yellowstone)
Also, think outside of the box when it comes to arriving at your destination. How about a bus or train ride? Or a cruise? Just get out there and travel! Start planning and saving today! The more places you go, the more you'll learn and the more you'll know! Don't rely on second hand knowledge about the world- experience it yourself!
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