When at home, today’s pace of everyday life doesn’t always allow families to spend quality time together. Taking a vacation where everyone is in the same place and on the same wavelength is an excellent way to strengthen family bonds. Meeting people from other cultures and backgrounds will broaden a child’s horizons and increase their knowledge. Studies have shown that children and teenagers’ mental and emotional development will benefit by getting away from the stress and routine of home and school life. Often problems they have will be shared with family members when they are relaxed and happy.
Children benefit from a family vacation in an enriched environment with people they love and trust. This leads the brain to release happy chemicals associated with a higher IQ in children. The educational value of family travel helps with child development because a child’s mind will associate what they learned with happy memorable times. For example, a child will learn by observing what is happening, so if a parent mimics a monkey’s behavior during a visit to the zoo, the child will remember it because it looks daft. Making a joke about something, evoking laughter, relaxes your brain and allows it to absorb information better.
The City of London provides plenty of family-friendly activities and places to visit; these are some of the most popular.
London Transport Museum
There are many great museums for tourists to visit in London. The London Transport Museum won an award in 2021 for being one of the best family-friendly museums. With a full range of events, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. In the depot, you will find many objects to explore and special family activities to participate in. In the all-aboard play zone, children can dress up in a uniform, drive mini vehicles and repair a mini tube train with toy spanners.
London Zoo
Situated in Regents Park, London Zoo is a beautiful setting for the array of exotic inhabitants found there. There are many exciting facts for children to discover about their favorite animals. Finding out where they live in the wild, what they like to eat, and what threatens their survival are the most important
questions to be answered. Families and all age groups are welcome to explore at their own pace or meet wildlife experts for daily talks at the animal enclosures.
London Eye
One of London’s top tourist attractions, with an overall height of 135 meters, the London Eye was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel when it was built in 2006. Although it is not a cheap family attraction, it provides a unique experience worth its price. The spectacular views offer educational value to the kids, as they can spot and name famous landmarks and buildings. Afterward, if you have time, relax and let the children have fun in the free playground next to the Eye.
The Tower of London
Along with the legendary Beefeater Guards or Yeomen Warders, the ravens have been guardians of the Tower of London for centuries. Seeing the fabulous Crown Jewels, watching the Ceremony of the Keys, and hearing tales of terror are reasons to visit this historic fortress. Families will learn many interesting facts, including how the ravens were given protected status by Charles II, who said the Tower would fall if they ever left.
Madame Tussauds
Famous figures from the world of entertainment, sport, politics, music, and many other genres can be seen at Madame Tussauds. Children and adults will find this a fantastic and scary experience as some famous faces seem to come alive. Exciting exhibits from Star Wars, Marvel Super Heroes, and James Bond all look upon you, tingling your senses. Getting close to some of your favorites from the sporting world will leave you amazed at the lifelike waxworks. Beware of the villains from the past and present, as these are so authentic and can be very frightening!
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