Child Care?

Parents' views about the merits or otherwise of family holidays with childcare or formal programmes can vary significantly, as can their childrens'. And views do, of course, depend on their ages. You may want a well deserved break from a young child, while a teenager may welcome the prospect of some independence from you. You do, of course, have the option of opting out of organised activities during your holiday if they do not meet your or your childrens expectations.

A recent study by one of the holiday company, which questioned 500 children between the ages of five and 14, revealed that 95 per cent of children said spending precious time with the grown-ups was the most important factor in a holiday. The same study found that children in the five to 10 age group prefer to stay in hotels with kids' clubs while most 11 to 14-year-olds prefer villas with communal pools for making friends.

Regardless of the type of holiday you choose, if having an element of childcare is important to you then consider asking the following questions before you commit:

• What will my kids actually do?
• Will the carers be able to communicate in English?
• Are they qualified and is the qualification one that we would respect in my country?
  
• What evidence can be shared about the reputation of the childrens club / childcare provision?
  
• What is the ratio of carers to children? How many kids overall?
  
• What procedures are followed in the event of an emergency and how would they get in touch with you?
  Many of the hand-picked properties that you'll find from our home pages offer childcare. And if you have a question about the right option to suit your family's needs then do contact us and we'll get back to you promptly.