Some families value travel and vacation more than others do. Those that travel often may do so because they are distanced from family or relatives, or it is family tradition to travel at certain times or to certain places, or for myriad other reasons. Other families prefer to stay close to home in order to make day trips, or to gather for picnics, fairs, and sports events. No matter how your family prioritizes travel and vacation, you will greatly enhance your child's ability to enjoy being away from home (no matter the duration) through careful planning.

As before, whenever possible, partner with your child in planning a vacation trip. Your child may dread the thought of leaving home to stay anywhere other than surroundings that are comfortable and familiar. (If your child is in her late teens or of a responsible age and is interested in other things, is her staying home, separate from any travel plans, an option in your family if she voices this desire?) Her anticipation of a trip away will be heightened if there is a way to tie the trip to her most passionate interests. For example, if she is fascinated by cartoon animation, ensure that a trip to a Disney theme park includes an opportunity to observe animators at work. If she is absorbed in learning about the mechanics of railway transportation, can you take a train to your destination instead of flying or traveling by car? If the folklore of a certain foreign culture is of interest, it stands to follow that a trip abroad would be desirable. Explore the available entertainment options in the home state of her favorite actress, inventor, or president. If your child is passionate about certain architecture, determine your flexibility in making a modification in your travel plans to set aside a day for such sightseeing. Building upon passions in this way will turn a potentially anxious situation into something to look forward to.