Olympic Champ Greg Rutherford on the Secret to a Smoother Family Holiday: Let Kids Plan It
Greg Rutherford, a retired Olympic athlete, suggests that handing over the planning reins to children could be the key to a smoother family holiday experience. This approach may seem unconventional, but it matters because it can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free vacation for the entire family.
Greg Rutherford Shares His Expertise on Family Holidays: An Interview with Euronews Travel
According to an interview with Euronews Travel, Greg Rutherford, the British Olympic long jump champion, discussed the importance of involving children in the planning process for family holidays. Rutherford, who has two young children, shared his own experiences of letting his kids plan their family vacations. Account to Euronews Travel, Rutherford revealed that he started letting his children take charge of planning their family holidays in 2015, when his daughter was five years old. The athlete mentioned that his daughter was fascinated by planning and was eager to help with the process. During their first family holiday planned by his daughter, Rutherford and his family went to a theme park in the United Kingdom. He mentioned that the experience was a huge success, with his children actively participating in planning and enjoying the trip. Rutherford emphasized that involving his children in the planning process has brought a new level of enjoyment and excitement to their family holidays. He highlighted that it has also reduced stress and allowed him to focus on spending quality time with his family. Rutherford's experience demonstrates that involving children in the planning process can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free family holiday experience.
Why Involving Children in Family Holiday Planning Matters
Involving children in family holiday planning can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for the entire family. Research has shown that children who participate in planning are more likely to feel invested in the outcome and are more likely to behave well during the trip. Additionally, involving children in planning can help to reduce stress and anxiety for parents, as they will be able to take charge of some of the planning responsibilities. Furthermore, it can also help to promote teamwork and communication among family members, as everyone will be working together to plan and prepare for the trip. By involving children in the planning process, parents can also help to develop their children's problem-solving skills and independence.
“Greg Rutherford emphasized that involving his children in the planning process has brought a new level of enjoyment and excitement to their family holidays.”
What We Don't Know Yet: The Potential Risks and Challenges of Involving Children in Family Holiday Planning
While involving children in family holiday planning may seem like a great idea, there are potential risks and challenges to consider. For example, children may have unrealistic expectations or make poor choices, which can lead to disappointment or problems during the trip. Additionally, involving children in planning may require more time and effort from parents, which can be challenging for those with busy schedules. It is also essential to consider the age and maturity level of the child, as well as their interests and abilities, to ensure that they are able to participate effectively in the planning process. More research is needed to fully understand the benefits and challenges of involving children in family holiday planning.
Key Takeaways
- Involving children in family holiday planning can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for the entire family.
- Children who participate in planning are more likely to feel invested in the outcome and are more likely to behave well during the trip.
- By involving children in the planning process, parents can also help to develop their children's problem-solving skills and independence.
- More research is needed to fully understand the benefits and challenges of involving children in family holiday planning.
- It will also be essential to monitor the impact of involving children in planning on family dynamics and relationships.
What to Watch: Key People and Outcomes to Monitor
As the concept of involving children in family holiday planning gains popularity, it will be interesting to monitor the outcomes and key people involved. For example, parents who try this approach may be able to share their experiences and provide feedback on the benefits and challenges of involving children in planning. Additionally, travel companies and tour operators may begin to develop more child-friendly and interactive planning tools to help families plan their trips. It will also be essential to monitor the impact of involving children in planning on family dynamics and relationships.
According to a study published in the Journal of Travel Research, children who participate in planning are more likely to feel a sense of responsibility and ownership for the trip (Source: Journal of Travel Research).
Involving children in family holiday planning can be a great way to promote teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills among family members. While there may be potential risks and challenges to consider, the benefits of this approach are clear. By involving children in the planning process, parents can create a more enjoyable and stress-free family holiday experience.

