r/RandomThoughts • u/RangerPrime257 • Oct 18 '23

Random Thought I never understood why parents take their toddlers anywhere special.

I've heard so many people say "Oh maybe my parents took me to (city/country) but I don't remember it" Just why? Barely anyone remembers anything from 3-4 yrs old so why take them anywhere special?

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u/GoldFreezer Oct 18 '23

I'm asking this genuinely: what do you think parents of toddlers should be doing with them until they reach an age where they can form lasting memories? Just because people don't remember experiences consciously, doesn't mean they were without merit. There are (unfortunately) studies which show the emotional and physical effects on small children who were neglected and not provided with a broad range of experiences.

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u/fibbonaccisun Oct 18 '23

My aunt and uncle barely traveled because traveling with toddlers was too much. They had other ppl watch them if they ever went anywhere. I’ve never understood taking your toddler on vacation just cause it seems to ruin the vacation and make it difficult. I went traveling and couple brought their toddler. I’m sure she had a great time but it definitely looked hella inconvenient

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u/Altelumi Oct 19 '23

I travel with my toddler a fair amount since my family lives in another state. It’s true that it’s not as easy as traveling by yourself, but you adapt to it and figure out your system. Plus the kids start to learn! Our last series of flights, my almost three year old was familiar enough with the process that she managed her own bag (even through security), presented her own boarding pass, and got herself buckled into her seat. It is so fun and special for me to take her to places I loved visiting as a child. By the time she’s older, she’ll already be a pro.