Experiences over Stuff

http://www.yourmodernfamily.com/spend-money-family-vacations/

This article really resonates with us as parents and has thankfully been something that we learnt early in parenthood. Choosing experiences over stuff really is the gift that keeps on giving. Time spent together as a family through shared experiences creates memories that kids don't outgrow, they don't break and they don't go off-trend, unlike the latest gadget or gizmo. Experiences clutter our minds in the best possible way unlike the stress that studies have shown can be exacerbated by having too many possessions.

​Whilst holidays are always desirable they might not always be possible but we have found that a day out exploring somewhere new, a fun activity such as hiring a canoeing for a few hours or a night away 'unplugged' can be just as refreshing allowing both the little and big kids to recharge and reconnect.
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Here are a few ways to 'holiday' when you're not on holidays. Perhaps consider one or a few of these for your child's next birthday...

• Day trip to a National Park, take a bush walk to a scenic lookout or waterfall
• Hire a canoe or kayak (if you don't own one)
• Hire a bike (if you don't own one) and go for a ride
• Visit an outdoor recreation centre such as Treetops Adventure Park or Cables
• Throw in a line for a spot of fishing... did you know that you can get kids fishing rods at Kmart for as little as $10?
• ​Visit the zoo- Western Plains Zoo and Australia Zoo are our favourites
• Try out the tourist attractions in and around your favorite city and see it through different eyes... think double decker red bus
• Pack a picnic and take a drive to a scenic picnic spot or beach that you haven't visited before
• Find a new park for the kids to explore
• Plan a night away in a place with lots to explore... Canberra is always a favourite with so many free/low cost attractions
• Stay at a Big4, NRMA or Discovery holiday park for the weekend- cabins and sites are usually heavily discounted in the offseason and they can be as good as staying in a resort!

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Not all of these suggestions are free but don't forget if you are a member of a motoring organisation such as the NRMA then you may be entitled to discounted tickets. Some of these also have loyalty programs so be sure to plan ahead and make sure you get the best deal.

Our kids are kids for such a short time in the scheme of things so make it fun and squeeze in as much as you can! Don't forget to capture those cherished memories through photos, videos and having the kids start their own travel journal. We recommend the Travelling with Kids Travel Journal, click here: https://www.travellingwithkids.com.au/?aff=galwaysgoround.

​Safe travels!