Plan a Beach Trip
I've written on this site about spending a day at the beach. Here I'll deal with the logistical undertaking involved in planning a beach trip for a family, which is a far greater challenge than hopping a bus for a short ride to the shore.
Instructions
1. In planning for a family visit to the ocean or to the lake, you'll have to contend with a range of enthusiasm and energy for the venture at hand. Let's assume that you're driving, as most summer travelers do. On a summer day, you have to expect traffic. Leave early, get there as early as possible and pack your car with plenty of nutritious snacks and drinks. Don't count on your car's air conditioning to keep you cool. Long, slow traffic can overheat almost everybody's car. If you don't exercise patience, your spouse and children could want to turn around as soon as they arrive. A friend of mine described the inventor of the seat back DVD player as a genius. If you have one installed in your vehicle, why not whet your kids appetite with videos like "Finding Nemo?"
2. Don't forget to bring your own camera, whether video or still. However I do suggest that you tote a backup camera, not your best because sand is the enemy of camera gear. Bring compressed air for frequent cleaning, make sure that your camera lens is protected by a filter and be prepared to sustain at least a little damage to capture your family's priceless beach memories.
3. When you get to your spot, scope it out and set up shade. Sunburn can make anybody miserable. As an adult, be sure to monitor how everybody applies sun block. Make sure that everybody stays hydrated.
4. The beach is a great place for catch, Frisbee, paddle ball and more. It gives your family an opportunity to get physical together. Keep your food on ice, or use mustard instead of mayonnaise, to keep sandwiches fresh.
5. Your children will have a range of swimming ability. Keep a close watch on the ones who can't swim well. As a former lifeguard, I promise you that nobody will keep as good a watch on your children as yourself. Introduce them to the fun of playing in the water. If you are a good swimmer yourself, give instruction but be patient. Even though my dad swam well, I learned through professional instruction, since I was initially quite unsure of myself. Respect your children's hesitation and don't mock their fears.
6. Remember to allow your family time between eating and drinking and swimming to avoid cramps.
7. If your beach is near an amusement park, recognize that your kids will expect you to allow them to ride at least something. If you set limits ahead of time, they'll learn deferred gratification and won't resent being denied every ride.
8. Finally, have fun. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of my summer trips to the ocean growing up which is probably why as an adult, I've lived in Venice Beach since 1980.
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