Traveling with children might seem intimidating, but experts argue it can have profound developmental benefits. The experience of travel, they say, expands a child’s worldview, fostering empathy for cultural differences and enhancing their ability to adapt to new environments. This exposure can even play a role in their linguistic development, particularly at a very young age.
Dr. Robin Hancock, a global education specialist, has emphasized the significance of travel in helping children develop the skills needed for building meaningful relationships, especially with those who are different from them. She suggests that by traveling, children are exposed to a new narrative that highlights similarities between people, laying the groundwork for better coexistence. Early exposure to these diverse experiences can help shape their perspective and development well into adulthood. Watching a child experience new things — whether it’s trying local cuisine in Havana or dipping their toes in the Dead Sea — these moments, while perhaps not remembered in detail, leave an imprint on their development.
According to Hancock, the most critical period for brain development occurs within the first few years of life, and exposing young children to diverse cultures during this time helps to normalize differences. The experiences they encounter while traveling can instill lifelong habits and perspectives. Children who begin learning about their global citizenship at a young age tend to carry those values with them into their adult lives, ultimately fostering a broader understanding of the world around them.
Linguistic development also sees a boost from travel, especially in babies as young as six months old. Erika Levy, an expert in communication sciences, points out that infants have a unique ability to perceive sounds that adults no longer recognize. By exposing them to various speech sounds from different languages during travel, parents can help maintain those sound categories, which may later support language learning as the child grows.
Additionally, when children return home from their travels, the experiences they’ve gained can positively influence their learning at school. Hancock notes that kids who have been exposed to different cultures and experiences tend to be more open to trying new things and less fearful of unfamiliar people or situations. This openness, she suggests, can help reduce bias and make them more adaptable.
For parents looking to make the most of their child’s travel experience, planning is key. By carefully choosing destinations and encouraging exploration, families can create lasting memories that contribute to both immediate joy and long-term developmental growth.
