Once, while reflecting on the shift in vacations after having kids, a wise friend remarked, “Traveling with children isn’t a vacation; it’s a trip.” How accurate that is! I truly cherish the time away with my kids, as it provides a fresh perspective and opportunities to create lasting memories. However, I always return feeling anything but refreshed. And let’s not forget those three days after returning home, which in our home we’ve dubbed The Post-Fun Meltdown.
What is The Post-Fun Meltdown?
The Post-Fun Meltdown is the aftermath that follows a fun event for kids, where the joy quickly turns into tears and chaos. It doesn’t matter if you enjoyed a blissful vacation where everything went smoothly or if it was a stressful affair filled with sleepless nights and sibling squabbles. The meltdown inevitably occurs.
I once believed that this phase would pass. I thought it was due to my having babies, being pregnant again, or the endless nights of nursing. Now that I have a 9-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a 5-year-old, I can confirm that this dreaded Post-Fun Meltdown has stuck around.
Is the Post-Fun Meltdown Just for Vacations?
Not at all! The Post-Fun Meltdown can arise after any major holiday, the departure of out-of-town guests, or even on…CHRISTMAS MORNING. Yes, it can hit just 15 minutes into the excitement of Christmas!
Can the Meltdown Happen While on Vacation?
Absolutely! If you’re on a longer vacation, especially during an action-packed summer, the Post-Fun Meltdown may strike before you even head home. Just check out some snapshots from our recent trip to the beach—proof that the meltdown can arrive early!
Will the Post-Fun Meltdown Ever End?
Honestly, I’m not sure. After seven years of parenting, the Post-Fun Meltdown hasn’t let up. It’s a steadfast companion that waits patiently for us to return home.
This phenomenon is why, whenever someone asks if we’re considering a trip to Disney, I can’t help but laugh maniacally. There’s no way I’d take my little rascals there without a backup plan. Unless, of course, you’re sending me to a relaxing getaway afterward, like Kauai, to escape the inevitable chaos.
What Can Be Done About the Post-Fun Meltdown?
I’m right there in the trenches with you, fellow parents. Here are some strategies I’ve found helpful:
- Anticipate It: Expecting the meltdown can help you stay calmer when it hits.
- Early Bedtimes: Aim to get the kids to bed earlier during the week following your return.
- Prioritize Rest: Don’t forget to take care of yourself; hit the sack early too.
- Keep Your Sense of Humor: Remember the fun of the trip and laugh about the chaos. Capture those moments of meltdown and share them with your partner for a good chuckle.
- Plan Activities: Distract your children with engaging activities like outdoor play, art projects, or a family movie night.
- Embrace the Chaos: If it gets overwhelming, put on a movie, serve cereal for dinner, and pour yourself a glass of wine. Remember, this too shall pass!
For more insights on navigating parenting challenges, you might want to check out our other posts on related topics, like this one on home insemination.
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Summary:
Traveling with children can be delightful yet exhausting, often leading to what many parents refer to as The Post-Fun Meltdown. This phenomenon occurs not only after vacations but also after holidays and special events. Preparing for this inevitable chaos can make it manageable. Strategies such as anticipating the meltdown, ensuring early bedtimes, maintaining a sense of humor, and engaging kids with activities can help ease the transition back home.