by Suzanne Rose

Created on: December 12, 2011   Last Updated: December 18, 2011

A trip to a foreign country can provide an experience a child can remember for a lifetime. It is vital to properly prepare your child before the trip. The following tips can aid in this process.

Physically prepare them

You must first make sure that you get all required immunizations for your child before embarking on a foreign journey. Speak to your child's pediatrician about any special precautions that must be taken. Also consider whether you need to do any other physical preparations. For instance, if you will be doing a lot of hiking in the foreign country, you may try to do some locally to help your child get stronger and accustomed to such physical activity.

Go over safety procedures with your child

First and foremost you want to have a safe trip with your child. Go over some safety ground rules, which may be different than the ones you have at home. Of course discuss stranger danger. If the police look different in the foreign country, then make sure to show a photograph. Stress the importance of listening well and staying close to you. Talk to your child about what to do if he or she gets separated.

Go over the culture of the new country

You want to teach your child a little about the country so that he or she can enjoy it, a good suggestion is Rick Steves, author of numerous European travel guidebooks. You may want to check out his books from the library about the country. Show pictures. Discuss any cultural events you may be attending.

You also want to discuss any language differences. You can teach them some basic phrases that may be of use, such as "Where is the bathroom?" You can play a tape of the language.

Discuss the travels

According to Baby Center, it is important to discuss the method of travel since it may be long. Talk about what to expect. If your child is scared to fly, then discuss it, assuring them of the safety of the method. Role-play a plane flight.

Give your child a chance to ask questions

It can be difficult to predict what might concern your child about a trip to a foreign country. Let him or her ask anything and answer all inquiries. Also, let him or her dictate some things to make the trip easier. For instance, it may help if he or she can bring a favorite doll.

A foreign trip can be a wonderful experience. By preparing your child, you will give him or her the best chance of a successful journey.

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