Here’s a hard truth many of us parents seem to be facing today: childcare isn’t what it used to be. Unless you’ve got a 'village’ of grandparents, close relatives or trusted friends nearby with flexible schedules (and the will to want to help), getting support with the kids is often inconvenient, unattainable, and downright expensive.

So what happens when we dream about taking a vacation? It’s not so much should we bring the kids as it is how the heck do we manage bringing the kids?

Before children, vacations were exactly that…vacations. Quiet mornings with coffee on the balcony, late night dinners followed by evening entertainment, maybe a nap in the middle of the day just because. Now? Vacations mean tantrums in airports, skipped naps, unfamiliar foods that go untouched, and 10PM bedtimes (for them and us). You’re doing all the same parenting, just in another country, and sometimes in another timezone, often without your usual comforts or routines.

So the question becomes: Will a vacation ever feel like a vacation again?

Enter: Kids Clubs. Or as they’re often marketed: KIDZ CLUBZ!!! (Because everything is more fun with a Z and three exclamation points)

Many popular hotels, resorts, and cruise lines have added these kids-only zones to their list of amenities. The promise being drop your little ones off for a fun-filled few hours of activities, games, and snacks while you enjoy some uninterrupted time with your partner. And let’s be honest, it’s enticing. They want to play, we want peace. It’s a win-win, right?

Before you send your kiddo off for a parent-free evening, here are some things worth considering:

1. WHO is watching my kids?

It’s easy to assume that the resort has trained childcare professionals, but you know what they say when you ‘assume’! Believe it or not, many hotels outsource childcare to third-party companies. As an overprotective mom, I want to know:

• How old are the staff?

• What experience do they have with kids?

• Are they CPR certified or trained in first aid?

• What’s the staff-to-child ratio?

Reputable places should be able to answer all of these without hesitation. If you’re met with vague responses, RUN.

2. What IFs?

Vacations are supposed to be stress-free, but let’s be honest, our mom brains don’t really shut off. We can’t help but think:

• What if my child gets hurt?

• What if they need to reach me?

• What if they try to leave? (If you have a child that’s a ‘runner’ like mine, you know how real this can be)

These are valid concerns. Make sure you know the emergency protocol, how you’ll be contacted, and what the physical boundaries of the kids club are. Even if you’re just a few doors away sipping a glass of wine, peace of mind goes a long way.

3. Is the play age-appropriate?

Sure, most clubs separate by age group. But just because they’re in the ‘2–4 years old’ room doesn’t mean the toys and activities are right for every child. Craft scissors and pom poms? Great for a 4-going-on-5-year-old. Potential choking and injury hazard for a just-turned-two toddler.

Ask to see the space, check out the toys, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries — even on vacation. You know your child best.

4. How can I be kept in the loop?

Some kids clubs go the extra mile with text or photo updates, real-time check-ins, or even wearable GPS trackers (some resorts offer them, or you can bring your own Apple Airtag-style device). It’s okay to ask: Can I get an update while they’re there? Even a quick “All good! Making slime!” message can make all the difference when you’re trying to relax.

Because you’re the parent, even on vacation.

Listen, you’re not “overdoing it” by asking questions or feeling hesitant. Cultural norms vary, and what seems like common sense to you might not be the same for a caregiver in another country.

You’re there to enjoy your family. Sometimes that means being together 24/7, and sometimes that means tag-teaming with your partner so one of you gets a break. If you choose to try a kids club, great! If not, that’s great too. You can still get creative: plan downtime during naps, or bring a trusted babysitter with you (if that’s an option).

Because while vacations may not look like they used to, they can still be special. They might be messier, louder, and more anxiety-ridden than ever but they’re still full of memories. And with a little (extra) planning, maybe, just maybe, they’ll feel like vacations again.

Kids Clubs: To Play, or Not to Play?

Play Room Rotation: Lean In or Let Go?