Staycation

This week, thousands of Canadians are off for March break. Some of the lucky ones have been able to leave the country in search for warmer weather. Those that were unable to get away can still have a vacation; you just need to have a staycation.

Exploring the ice caves in Niagara

A staycation is when an individual or family stays home and participates in leisure activities. You might take day trips but usually at the end of the day you are sleeping back in your own bed.

So this March break, here are some ideas for your staycation:

Exploring the ROM

• Visit a museum or science centre
• Go to an amusement park or water park
• Go to the beach or pool
• Get the bike out
• Go to a movie or see a show
• Go shopping
• Take a hike
• Zoos
• Go to a concert
• Read a book
• Sporting events such as minor or professional hockey, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, etc.
• Host a potluck or barbeque
• Spend time with the kids, family, or friends
• Camp in your own backyard
• Have a board game night

Some of the benefits of a staycation:

• Is that it can save you money
• You do not have the hassle of packing
• You don’t have to worry about travelling
• You don’t waste days travelling to and from, so you will have more time for your vacation
• If the weather is crappy, it won’t ruin your vacation

Next time you are wishing you were away on vacation, try using some of these ideas.

Separation Anxiety

Continuing off my post from last week about theme parks, if you decide to go, here is something to keep in mind, theme parks are huge and crowded, meaning it is easy to lose family members.

Part of the line for a Harry Potter ride

This summer my family went to Universal in Orlando and we lost my dad (we often loose him – arenas, malls, parking lots, etc). Because we were out of country, we had no cell phones to contact him. Luckily he is 6’1½ and we could spot him wandering in Harry Potter land. The point being, it’s very easy to become separated.

So here are some tips to help avoid that feeling of anxiety:

• Know what everyone is wearing. I’ve seen groups all wear the same shirt or jersey to easily locate group members.
• Practice the buddy system, especially with kids.

My buddy was my sister and I wore a bright colour

• If your child has a disability, I’ve seen people make shirts for the child saying what their disability is and if they become separated, they provide contact information on the shirt.
• Have a cell phone or walkie-talkies.
• Wear bright colours.
• Have a meeting place, incase anyone is separated.
• Carry a picture of everyone, you can show it to security, incase a more serious issue occurs.
• If travelling with kids, emphasis the importance of staying with the group. Set out consequences and rewards before going to the park.
• Ex. If Billy runs ahead, he’ll miss out on a ride or if Billy stays with everyone, he can receive a treat.

Finally found dad

If you have tips, please post in the comment section.