Letting Your Little One Be Part of the Process

If there’s one thing that I have always put off until the last minute — it’s packing. Traveling is one of my favorite ways to spend my time, but packing not so much. Now, having to consider packing with little hands reaching in the suitcase to unpack what I just put in the suitcase… let’s just say it adds to the fun.

Even though it has its challenges, allowing Taegan to be a part of the entire travel process has been rewarding. At almost 18 months, she’s quickly picking up on the action of placing items into the suitcase — if only she wouldn’t unpack them too! While I joke, she really enjoys being invited to be part of packing at her age.

Getting creative with packing makes it more fun for both her and I. It also allows us to practice words together. As I place something in the suitcase, I say it’s name. And while she’s not able to say the word back to me perfectly just yet, she’s already trying. At least until something else — like my makeup bag — catches her attention.

If packing with your little one proves to be completely impossible… its okay. Find what works. With Taegan, she’s much better with unpacking as I previously mentioned. This is a way for her to help as well with less stress for me.

Now, stop procrastinating — like me — and try packing or unpacking with help from your little one!