We all need a little getaway from time to time. But let’s face it, what’s a vacation if it still feels stressful? If you’re planning a trip with your little ones, take a deep breath! Thinking ahead about childcare options can make all the difference. You can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while your child has a blast. Here are some ways to help you find the right childcare options on vacation, so you can embrace your downtime and recharge fully.Â
Find Out If Your Destination Has Childcare SupportÂ
Depending on where you’re traveling, your destination might provide childcare options. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, for example, the resort might have nannies on staff or on-site childcare who have already been vetted by the resort. Similarly, some hotels work with trusted local go-to childcare service providers (like Jovie!) they can recommend to families. If that’s the case at your hotel, your concierge can help set up babysitting support with them, and a professional babysitter will come to your location. Â
If you’re headed to a particularly family-friendly spot, like a kid-friendly cruise or park, there might be kids’ activities or camps where your child can have new experiences, meet other kids, and still have adult supervision. It’s a good idea to check for any of these options beforehand. Even if they are available, spots might be limited. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and see if you can book a spot for your child in advance.Â
Hire a Local Babysitter or NannyÂ
Finding the right babysitter or nanny in a new area can feel a bit daunting, especially if there aren’t any childcare options available at your destination. Â
Working with a local childcare service agency can help make this process much easier. They take the time to thoroughly vet their nannies and babysitters, conducting extensive background and reference checks. You can feel confident and secure knowing that you’ve found someone trustworthy who’ll take great care of your child. With the right help, you can relax and enjoy your time away.Â
Bring Your Nanny or Babysitter Along Â
Consider bringing your nanny or babysitter on your trip to ensure your vacation is stress-free, refreshing, and fun. This option is especially beneficial for international travel, where it might be harder to connect with local sitters (and to have extra support on the long flights!). Having your favorite nanny or sitter on vacation with you has a lot of perks. You’ll have childcare anytime you need it on your trip, allowing for lots of flexibility with your schedule. Your nanny or sitter also already knows your child and their preferences, routines, and dietary needs, so there’s no need to explain this to a new sitter on vacation (and worry about it when you’re supposed to be off having a fun time). Plus, your child is already familiar with them, too, so they’ll be more at ease than they would be with a new person, which means less stress for parents.Â
If you decide to bring your nanny or babysitter on your vacation, communicate clearly before the trip about expectations and compensation. Your vacation is a very different context than your home, so new situations will arise with your childcare provider. Are there specific hours or days you’ll need childcare for? Will they have any days off or free time? Discuss these details, along with other logistics, such as travel dates, accommodations, and what to bring, ahead of time so they can be fully prepared. Because your nanny or sitter will be with your family around the clock for several days, you’ll likely need to pay them overtime. Let them know if you want to offer additional perks, like a day off or a paid excursion. You should also pay for their travel expenses and accommodations as their employer.Â
While this option might seem expensive, think about all the times you’ll want childcare on your trip. Depending on your needs and destination, bringing your nanny or sitter with you might be cost-effective in the end – and the peace of mind and flexibility it will provide is priceless!Â
Other Tips for a Stress-Free Vacation with ChildcareÂ
Changing settings and routines can be stressful for children. If it would be helpful for your child, talk to them ahead of time about what their schedule and routines will look like during the trip. Make sure to pack all the necessary supplies so that you and your nanny or sitter will have what they need to care for your child well (e.g., diapers, bottles, toys, etc.). One great idea to make for a stress-free time with your child? Pack a “comfort bag” full of their favorite toys, books, snacks, and items from home that they can have with them during your vacation.Â
Ready to Find Vacation Childcare?Â
Whether you want to bring your favorite nanny or find a great sitter at your destination, Jovie has your back. We thoroughly vet our nannies and sitters and personally match them with families, so there’s no need to worry about finding a trustworthy childcare provider while on vacation. We’ll take care of it so you can relax, enjoy, and make memories to last a lifetime!Â