Vacations with in-laws can quickly become a test of patience, especially when kids enter the picture. My partner Alex and I used to enjoy relaxing trips with our families before we had children. We’d leisurely explore the area during the day and gather for dinner at night. However, once our kids arrived, everything changed. Suddenly, we found ourselves in close quarters with family 24/7, and let’s just say, it wasn’t exactly a walk in the park.
Over the years, we’ve discovered some helpful tips for surviving these family getaways. Here are eight strategies that might ease your mind on your next trip.
- What Happens on Vacation Stays on Vacation: This is crucial. If you find yourself in an awkward situation—like breastfeeding in front of your in-laws—just remember that those stories will likely stay buried until the next holiday gathering.
- Establish Clear Roles: It’s essential to define who does what. Typically, the grandparents will enjoy their time, while parents handle the bulk of the responsibilities. Accepting this division early on can make a world of difference.
- Different Definitions of Helping: Understand that help means different things to different people. For me, it meant having a few hours at the beach while my mother-in-law thought it meant giving my baby ice cream during dinner. Clearly communicating your needs can prevent misunderstandings.
- Master the Art of the Drop-Off: Don’t be afraid to leave your little one with the grandparents for a bit. It took me a while to realize that my kids could survive without me for a few hours. A quick drop-off with a confident “You’ll be fine!” can work wonders.
- Don’t Assume Schedules Align: Just because the grandparents are retired doesn’t mean they wake up early. While my kids rise at the crack of dawn, my in-laws seem blissfully unaware. The good news? They often help out after bedtime, allowing for some much-needed adult time.
- Choose Accommodations Wisely: If your in-laws are handling hotel arrangements, be cautious. I once ended up in a condo with twin beds—even in our room! It’s a constant reminder that certain aspects of our lives should be kept private.
- Reframe Your Trip: Instead of calling it a vacation, think of it as a “family visit” or “trip.” This subtle shift in mindset can help you cope better with the reality of the situation.
- Plan a Post-Trip Retreat: I used to come home and think, “I need a vacation from my vacation.” Now, I schedule a mini-getaway after family trips. This year, I cleverly used work as an excuse to head home early. Just five days of peace will be the perfect remedy after ten days with the in-laws.
For even more tips on managing family dynamics, check out this post from our blog.
In summary, while vacations with in-laws can be challenging, establishing clear roles, setting boundaries, and planning for some personal downtime can make all the difference. Remember, it’s all about striking that balance and enjoying those precious family moments—without losing your mind in the process!
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